I have a Bernhardt Merkel drilling, 16gaX16ga over 8X57JRS. I have shot the 16's but as yet haven't stumbled across any ammo for the rifle barrel. (Actually bought some 8X57 and then, while loading a round, realized it needed to be a rimmed cartridge.)
What can you tell me about the 8X57JRS? I know it's a .323 bullet as opposed to the earlier .318 bullets. Performance seems to be about like a 30-06, with a slightly heavier bullet. Looks like S&B is the best source for affordable rounds. Who shoots it, and what do you like or dislike about it?

I guess no one shoots it or likes it. I'll try it and let you know.

Welcome to the AR forum. Since I am an unpaid knowitall it takes me longer to answer.

There is loading data for the 8X57JRS in my old Vihtavuori #1 manual. It shows a max load of 2650 fps for the 180 gr bullet. That's right up there and is plenty of power.

I have loaded for my Sauer 16X16X8X57JR since 1968. I hope you enjoy yours. We have a number of combination gun enthusiasts here. Do a search on drillings.

Woodson,

If you see some 8X57JRS S&B or whatever brand for sale grab them. I passed up some in the J version and now I wish I had got them as they are gone.

I have enjoyed reloading the 8X57JR. All you need is 8X57 dies and the correct shell holder. The loading data ay www.imrpowder.com seems just right for a drilling also. I made cases from 30/40 Krags also. This requires a lathe to turn the rim thickness from the top and not the base.

You have an easier cartridge to load as the bullets are common.

What is your drilling like in terms of weight, 16 ga chamber length, barrel length, sights and triggers and other features?

Dugaboy1,

Rest your heart. The 30/40 Krag case is 2.314" long and the 8X57 is 2.240"!

I use the expander button from my 8.15X46 dies.

I also size 32 Special bullets down to .318 for that gun.

[ 01-09-2003, 01:01: Message edited by: Savage99 ]

Thanks for the help. My Drilling was made in 43, based on stamps, I think. A german BBS gave me info that Bernhardt was one of the Merkel uncles, who did some of his own work as well as work with Merkel. It's a typically teutonic configuration, a pistol-grip with horn butt-plate and forend inserts. It has double triggers, with a single set for the 8X57, and the typical pop-up rear sight when in the rifle mode. It has a matted rib with the makers name about 1/4 of the way down the rib. There are gold? cocking indicators for all three barrels and a "Greener"type safety. The barrels are about 26 inches, and while I've never weighed it, it's pretty light. It has relatively deep relief game scene coverage on the bottom and sides of the receiver, with some scroll work at breech, muzzle and trigger guard. It has a large monogramed "EB" in silver on the trigger guard. If I can get it figured out, I'll post an image or two when it's finished.