◆ SpookStack

Historical Notes The 7x57mm Mauser is another car- tridge that, although designed as a military round, was ' widely adapted to sporting purposes. Contrary to what most cartridge books say, it was not introduced in 1893. Tt was actually developed tn 1892 and used in a limited number of Mode! 92. Mauser rifles, a modification of the Belgian-Mauser pattern of 1889. In 1893 Mauser in- troduced an improved bolt action rifle in 7x57mm cali- ber which was officially adopted by the Spanish miti- tary. Subsequently, minor modifications of this 7mm rifle were adopted by other European and many Latin- American governments The original 7mm military round employed a 173-gr. bullet with a muzzle velocity of 2296 fps and an energy of 2025 fp. Other loadings were used by various coun- tries with bullets ranging in weight from 139 grs. up to the original 173-gr. Those on which data is available are listed below, Model 93 Mauser rifles in 7mm calther were used by Spanish troops during the Spanish-American war, The effectiveness: of this combination against American forces was responsible for the eventual adoption of the Factory Ballistics Bullet {grs.} y39 . 27930 142 2740 155 2300 {?) 162 2298 173 2296 Powder/gst. say Spanish Mouser short rife, Model 95, caliber 7mm Mauser-systern 1903 Springfield rifle. San Juan Hill was defended by only about 700 Spaniards armed with the new Mauser 7mm rifles, but they inflicted some 1400 casualties on the 15.000 Americans who attacked their position. General Comments There has been a Jarge influx of surplus 7mm military rifles since the end of WW II. Many who purchase these immediately want them al- tered to some more familiar American sporting caliber. This is actually foolish because the 7x57mm is one of the best all-round calibers available for North Ameri- can big game. With the proper bullet for the job at hand, the 7mm will handle any big game found here. It might not be the choice for grizzly bear in heavy brush, but in the hands of an experienced hunter it will be far superior to the old .30-30 for any purpose. If the barrel is in good shape if is best to leave 7mm military rifles in their original caliber. 7x57 loading data is in chapter 1. Military load, Braril & Colombia Military joad, Uruguay } Mexico Meanica Original miltery loading used by Spain ond others.