Let's Talk Reloading the 8mm (7.92) Mauser...

[Josh Smith]

Hello,

I just ordered 20 pieces of brass, 50 200 grain 0.318" soft point bullets, and dies for my new, 119-year-old Gewehr 88.

From what I gather on numerous boards, since mine is "S" marked, it can theoretically take 0.323" bullets, but because it slugs to 0.316" or so, I'm not going to risk it.

Additionally, I've read that the locking lugs and overall steel aren't as strong as the later Mauser, so it needs to be loaded back, 2000fps to 2500fps max.

In looking at the data on Hodgdon's website, it looks like two of my favorite powders, Varget and H4895, are used on both the 8mm Mauser and the 7.62x54R, so one of the two make logistic sense for me to use.

Looks like my shell holder for my .45acp will work just fine on the Mauser round, as well.

So, recipes folks? Or do you just use the starting loads?

I can't wait to take a few shots from this ol' warhorse!

Any advice is appreciated.

Thanks!

Josh

[XDRoX]

Subscribed.

I also would like to learn about what others are loading for 8mm.

I have only loaded for it once and loved the results. They felt like mouse farts compared to surplus stuff. I don't remember the powder or the bullet, but I'll post when I sit down to my computer. I'm on the iPad right. I really need to get my data on this thing.

[Whiterabbit]

I load the 7, not the 8. But.

For cheap thrills I have two words. Trail Boss. not the alpha or the omega. But it should be in every rifle loader's shelf. Way more fun than it should be.

[FLIGHT762]

Since you are loading .318" bullets, your sizing die button will size for a .323" bullet. Your .318" bullet may seat fine, depending what brass you will be using. If you find the .318" bullets seat without enough friction, you may have to polish down your sizing button .003"-.004", or you can contact your die mfg. and ask if they have a replacement button for .318" bullets in the 8MM Mauser.

Loading for the 1888 Mauser, I'd keep the loads at the minimum loads for 1898 Mauser loading data.

[bcrich]

What if he tries sizing the case without the expander ball? not sure what the neck tension would be without the .323 expander but it would probably better fit the .318 projo... just a thought