M98 in 7x57 suited for heavier bullets ?

[ActionBob]

I have read on here that the Rigby Highland Stalkers aren’t throated or suited to shooting the heavier 175 grain bullets and are intended for the 140’s. Does anyone know if that’s the same truth for the plain M98 rifles in 7x57?

I would assume the barreled actions are exactly the same as what’s shipped to Rigby but didn’t know if there is a chance that Rigby spec’d theirs that way and the regular Mausers aren’t.

You are correct. However if you order a new rifle you can order it opened up for the heavier 7x57 clambering. And they will mark the rifle as a 275 Rigby/7x57 if you request it. This is what we are doing on the Anniversary special we ordered.

The one I bought used went to J.J. and was opened up. It would not chamber a 175 grain round.

The 275 Rigby is intended for a 140 grain spire point. It is designed as a deer stalking rifle. The 140 grain spire point bullet is not a good choice for general African hunting. The 173 or 175 grain standard loading for the 7x57 or 7mm Mauser makes it an excellent choice for Africa.

 

[RichieG]

I bought one from the Mauser dealer in SA so assume it’s a standard rifle. They appear all marked M98 and HV (which I think means for the 140gr spire point) 1:8.6 twist and 275/7x57 as standard. I think the latter is standard because the interchangeability of the brass and the issues it has caused at borders where the rifle says 275 and the brass is 7x57.

When I next handle my rifle I’ll let you know what else chambers in it in addition to the 175 eldx and send a pic of the markings.

Magnificent rifle as is light to carry and packs a punch with limited recoil. Shot a few impala at Easter at 200,220 and 250m off sticks and in spite of some 2 being quartering to, all bullets exited and left very impressive blood trails. I will be testing the 160gr Safari Bullet Company 7mm round soon. Fantastic African hunting bullets.

You are correct. However if you order a new rifle you can order it opened up for the heavier 7x57 clambering. And they will mark the rifle as a 275 Rigby/7x57 if you request it. This is what we are doing on the Anniversary special we ordered.

The one I bought used went to J.J. and was opened up. It would not chamber a 175 grain round.

The 275 Rigby is intended for a 140 grain spire point. It is designed as a deer stalking rifle. The 140 grain spire point bullet is not a good choice for general African hunting. The 173 or 175 grain standard loading for the 7x57 or 7mm Mauser makes it an excellent choice for Africa.

 

[Frederik]

I bought one from the Mauser dealer in SA so assume it’s a standard rifle. They appear all marked M98 and HV (which I think means for the 140gr spire point) 1:8.6 twist and 275/7x57 as standard. I think the latter is standard because the interchangeability of the brass and the issues it has caused at borders where the rifle says 275 and the brass is 7x57.

When I next handle my rifle I’ll let you know what else chambers in it in addition to the 175 eldx and send a pic of the markings.

Magnificent rifle as is light to carry and packs a punch with limited recoil. Shot a few impala at Easter at 200,220 and 250m off sticks and in spite of some 2 being quartering to, all bullets exited and left very impressive blood trails. I will be testing the 160gr Safari Bullet Company 7mm round soon. Fantastic African hunting bullets.

You won't be dissapointed in those 160gr bullets !!!