Samco Iranian 8mm in Hakim?

[golanglobus]

I googled this and found a few posts on other forums but no good information.

Questions:
Has anyone out there shot the 1950's Iranian Surplus 8mm mauser ammo currently available from Samco in their Hakim rifle?
If so, where did you set the gas valve for safe/reliable operation (especially SAFE)?

I already know that this stuff shoots like crap; my M24/47 does not like it at all and I won't be shooting it for groups off the bench. But I have ~380 rounds left and WILL be using it up in the new (to me) Hakim. I would like to do this without blowing up this beautiful (to me) rifle, not to mention my hands, face, etc.

Any real world experience would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Eric

 

[451 Detonics]

Open the gas port up all the way and then start closing it a couple clicks for each round you fire, when it operates reliably that is where it needs to be set.

I do this for any new ammo I am not sure of in my Hakim...just keep notes.

 

[280shooter]

I do the same thing with my FN49,,

 

[golanglobus]

Thanks,
I've also heard exactly the opposite advice: To close the valve a few clicks from "normal" and work up from there until the brass is thrown clear and the last shot bolt hold open engages consistently. My little brain has tried to process both of these ideas and, I may be wrong, but this makes more sense to me.

The few reports of catastrophic failures of Hakims that I've been able to find would seem to me to have involved too much gas pressure/too early unlocking of the bolt - the extractor ripping cases apart and exposing the action and the shooter to the still-burning powder. Or maybe I've got it backwards and I'm not understanding something.

I don't know. It sounds like your technique works for you, and I don't mean to knock it, but if you've got a minute could you explain it to me like I'm stupid?

Also the original question remains open: If anyone HAS shot this filthy garbage in their Hakim and can give me a ballpark setting that would be great. No rush, I probably won't even try until it stops being winter here.

Thanks