FN 49 - 8mm or 7mm

[Jolly Green]

Which would you pick?
For me it works out like this:

8mm
$.20 surplus
generally cheaper
more abundant

7mm
$.15 surplus (won't last too much longer)
generally a little more expensive
often in better condition/ better accuracy

So for me it seems to be pay more for more (7mm) (that is if you can find one that is decently priced)(a few on GB right now)

Whats your opinion? Please state why (ammo price/avaliability, accuracy, rifle availabilty, general condition, etc.)

 

[desidog]

If you want a big thump, go 8mm.

If you're going to be putting rounds through it the way i'm eating pistachios right now, 7mm will be easier on your shoulder...perhaps not your wallet; but the difference is pretty small.

 

[Float Pilot]

My personal experience is that the 7x57mm is more prone to accuracy than the 7.92 x57mm.
Of course if you could find a Luxembourg model in 30-06 that would be the Cat's Pajamas.
Of you want to blast away without regard to accuracy get whatever will be available enmasse for the next few years.

 

[Coronach]

Where is this cheap 7mm surplus? I have a FN49in 7mm and it is always hungry...

 

[grimjaw]

Having owned/fired the FN49 in 8mm, I'd recommend the 7mm. Your shoulder will thank you.

jm

 

[Grey Morel]

I voted 8mm, simply because you will find ammo more easily. You can even still find surplus ammunition loaded on Mauser strippers, which I believe are compatible with the FN49.

 

[Al LaVodka]

I've an 8mm, but, .30-06 woulda been nice even above 7mm which is a sweet cartridge.
Al

 

[Jolly Green]

Where is this cheap 7mm surplus? I have a FN49in 7mm and it is always hungry...

7mm surplus at:
http://www.samcoglobal.com/Ammo-mauser.html
I read a review from a man shooting it out of an appropriate mauser. He averaged 2-3 and some change MOA IIRC. Seems great for the price.

Thanks for all the replies so far.

 

[Hatterasguy]

I bought one in .308 because I wanted a detachable mag, and I prefer very common rounds.

Although 8mm wouldn't be to bad, you can get that cheap.

 

[XxWINxX94]

Not trashing the 7x57mm, but I think you will save a lot of money getting an 8mm or even .308 as there is more surplus ammo avaliable.

 

[Coronach]

7mm surplus at:
http://www.samcoglobal.com/Ammo-mauser.html

Thanks! I'm gonna pass, though...I dislike running corrosive ammo through a semi-auto. Too many things to miss in the cleaning for my sloppy, forgetful self.

Mike