My SSK brochure says the 8 X 57 is a good choice for a contender shooter that wants "high performance" but doesn't handload?????

Really!?!

If you can't use the .308 or .30-06 I don't see using the 8x57 even as loaded commercially in the US.

I second the "motion" for an explanation of this suggestion by JDJ.

Gonhuntin,

I am going out on a limb, but here's my take. The 8X57 Factory ammo that we can buy here in the states is severely downloaded, so that it will not blow up the old military guns with .318" bore (instead of the more common 8mm bore - .323"). Has to do with J/S bore dimensions, see notes in Cartridges of the World.

I suspect that at these lower pressures, the factory ammo may be safe in a Contender.

Of course if you loaded them up to 308 pressures, you're going to have problems!

Best regards,

Bill

Found this note in my Accurate Powders manual:

quote:

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"SAAMI's solution to this problem (change in bore size from .318 to .323) was to limit the pressures of American manufactured 8mm Mauser ammunition to 35,000PSI."

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At 35,000 PSI, I'm sure the 8x57 would be safe in a contender.....but look out if you get some of the higher pressure ammo!

Thought about getting an 8X57 bbl for my Contender since I have 2 rifles so chambered. Passed on the idea, as I load the rifles to full potential and didn't want an accident. Bought an 8mm JDJ bbl instead. I think of it as what it really is, an 8X57R Improved loaded to 40,000 cup. Fire forming loads are necked down using an 8X57 resizing die.