Results 1 to 9 of 9
  1. #1
    User
    Join Date
    Feb 2019
    Location
    Edmonton, Canada
    Posts
    2

    Default Mauser 98 in 6.5x58 Portuguese - reloading

    Hi all,
    I'm searching for load data for this old cartridge. I've found only a few loads on various forums for this cartridge but for the M1904 rifles and none for 98's. This is a resurrection project for a customer. So far, the firearm has been thoroughly inspected, chamber proven to be a 6.5x58P and I was also able to acquire 1 original factory round. Test fired perfectly. The fire formed brass measurements are correct according to the case drawings that I have found.

    We have acquired reformed 270 Win brass from Buffalo Arms and a full set of new dies from CH4D.

    Next step...working up a load. Any recipes would be greatly appreciated. I will be using standard cup/core bullets likely 140gr Speer or similar.
    IMG_0888.jpg

  2. #2
    Banned
    Join Date
    May 2018
    Location
    Place between two rivers
    Age
    55
    Posts
    340

    Default Re: Mauser 98 in 6.5x58 Portuguese - reloading

    Beautiful rifle!

  3. #3
    User
    Join Date
    Oct 2012
    Location
    Noord van die biltong gordyn.
    Age
    56
    Posts
    9,116

    Default Re: Mauser 98 in 6.5x58 Portuguese - reloading

    Very pretty!

    The first real Mauser in 6,5 Porra calibre I have ever seen. (The 6,5x58 Portuguese service rifle is built on a Mannlicher-type action with split rear reciever ring.)

    Just never do any mods to that piece of art please?

  4. #4
    Banned
    Join Date
    Dec 2009
    Location
    Vereeniging
    Age
    70
    Posts
    5,782

    Default Re: Mauser 98 in 6.5x58 Portuguese - reloading

    With Quick Load I have done load development for an old Portuguese Mauser where low pressure loads need to be used. If this is a normal 98 Mauser the modern pressures of 60K psi can be used.

  5. #5
    User
    Join Date
    Dec 2010
    Location
    Philippolis
    Posts
    4,733

    Default Re: Mauser 98 in 6.5x58 Portuguese - reloading

    Beautiful rifle. As AR said, keep it original.

    Wouldn't 6.5x57 starting loads be a good place to start? I believe some of the Sonchem manuals list loads.

  6. #6

    Default Re: Mauser 98 in 6.5x58 Portuguese - reloading

    Hi rsako: I developed this load for my Porra and is shoots quite well: Please approach with care as the chambers of these old rifles differs a lot.
    6.5x58 reload data.jpg

  7. #7
    Banned
    Join Date
    Dec 2009
    Location
    Vereeniging
    Age
    70
    Posts
    5,782

    Default Re: Mauser 98 in 6.5x58 Portuguese - reloading

    Somchem propellants, especially S365, are known for Lot inconsistencies. A safe starting load with 140gr bullets would be 40gr. QL predicts a speed of 2490fps with a 24 inch barrel. Pressure at 37K psi of max 51K. Once you have speed vs load data QL can provide much better predictions.

  8. #8
    User
    Join Date
    Apr 2011
    Location
    Republic of Texas
    Posts
    2,070

    Default Re: Mauser 98 in 6.5x58 Portuguese - reloading


  9. #9
    User
    Join Date
    Feb 2019
    Location
    Edmonton, Canada
    Posts
    2

    Default Re: Mauser 98 in 6.5x58 Portuguese - reloading

    IMG_1096.jpgHi folks,
    I do apologize for the delayed response during this project, but i wanted it to be thorough enough for all to enjoy for as long as anyone can find this kind of information on the internet for these ol' rifles. With all the info we managed to obtain, i was able to decide on load data for this beautiful rifle.

    After firing "The" single original factory loaded cartridge and measuring all chamber specs...then resizing the obtained "reformed" Remington brass (saved me lots of time and customer $)...Here is what was chosen:

    - Alliant Reloader 15 powder. Slightly faster than S365 which is not available in Canada as i know of.
    - CCI Large Rifle Primer
    - Hornady 140gr Interlock bullets

    There is a lot of reasoning behind choosing the faster powder (in this specific rifle)..it has a shorter 21.25" barrel...and it has steeper shoulder angle..much like an Improved Wildcat. But reamers are, well reamers. Whichever reamer the gun maker (Emil Kerner) used had a steeper angle, which actually benefited this rifles ballistics. In this solid Mauser action we were able to attain 2650FPS on the first go! No Pressure issues, the headspace is great, primers, brass look great. Neck sizing from here on.

    Chamber throat/leade was measured and bullets seating was set to 0.010 inches off the lands.

    Worked like a Champion! Here are a few pics from yesterday while load testing. What a pleasure to work on such a fine firearm!
    I will post more detailed load info as time permits and if folks would like. Just ask. or follow us on the net www.sightsandarms.com
    IMG_1098.jpgIMG_1097.jpg

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •