The 8x57mm IS, better known as the 8mm Mauser, was the German service cartridge through both world wars and remains a mainstream hunting round in Europe. Full-pressure loads drive a 196 grain projectile at about 2,600 fps, which puts it a step above the .30-06 for heavy game, with 150 to 170 grain loads for deer and pigs.
In Australia the cartridge appears in surplus Mauser 98 rifles, sporterised Mausers, and European hunting rifles from Sauer, Blaser and Merkel. It is a genuine sambar and scrub bull cartridge in the heavy loads. The rimmed 8x57 IRS for break-action rifles and drillings shares its ballistics but not its case, and has its own page.
Two bore standards exist: the .318 diameter I (J) bore from before 1905 and the .323 IS (JS) bore that replaced it. Firing .323 ammunition in an early .318 barrel is dangerous. Almost every rifle you will encounter is IS, but if you own a pre-1905 Mauser or an unmarked sporter, have it checked before buying ammunition. American-loaded 8mm Mauser is often loaded very mildly for exactly this reason; European ammunition from RWS, Sako and Sellier & Bellot gives full performance.
We stock 8x57 hunting ammunition where available and carry dies, brass and .323 projectiles for reloaders. European rifles in 8x57 can be ordered. Firearms are shipped Australia-wide to your nominated dealer.
