Something to consider depending on the age of the Drilling in question is how it is chambered. The older ones were chambered for 16ga 2-1/2" shells; modern is 2-3/4". Of course, you may be able to have a qualified gunsmith ream out the chamber, but obviously that has to be accomplished prior to the hunting trip.
Again, depending on the vintage, you should determine (pre-purchase) whether it is chambered for 8x57 JR or 8x57 JRS. Essentially the same rimmed cartridge case, but the former is bored for a 0.318" bullet whereas the latter is bored 0.323" -- a not insignificant difference. The "8mm Mauser" is a rimless cartridge, using a 0.323" bullet.
That may be a better option, as I suspect that both factory ammunition and components may be easier to obtain.Just listen to your inner voice, come to the conclusion that 7x57R/16 is sufficient and obey!
Thanks for the heads up, I am now looking for one with a 7x57R /16 GA . I think I'll have more options for bullets from the 7mm . Thank you for your advice.
NEVER EVER take a reamer to a drilling. Because the gunmaker is assembling three barrels together, they tend to be right at the minimum safe thickness at the chamber.
I don't disagree with that. Perhaps it would be worthwhile to have a qualified gunsmith check to determine whether some previous owner may have done so.
Glad to see i’m not alone in my experience with “gunsmiths “!
Cartridge?
I hear you on the whitetail pop ups--only mine was a wall-mountable mule deer, 60 yds standing, and I HAD the 8x57 cartridge with me....but I couldn't shoot it as it was not legally allowed! Oh, the temptation, though. I didn't shoot for the same reason my wife doesn't murder me sometimes--too many witnesses!
