FR7

[jbs]

FR8's come around every once in a while. The FR7 is pretty scarce. Made from the older Spanish 1916's or -1983's, they have the small ring receiver where FR8's are large ring, K98 type receivers.
This one is in great shape. I have shot 308 in it but now only take it out for fun using plastic bullets. I believe it would hold up fine to the power of 308 but if there is a 1% chance of not, I'd rather not take the chance. It's a debate that goes on for years but I have yet to see an FR7 or 1916 modified to 308 go kaboom.
The bent bolt on the FR7 is a much better design than the straight bolt on the FR8. You don't catch your knuckles on the rear sight with the bent bolt. With a straight bolt, you really need to work the bolt with an open palm.

[RWS]

I think the debate hinges around the fact that most of the cartridges for the small ring Mauser actions operate in the 40,000 to 45,000 psi pressure range. .308/7.62 runs over 50,000 psi.

I have both a FR7 and an FR8. I choose to shoot full bore .308/7.62 in the FR8 but use reduced loads in the FR7, about 2,100 fps and pressures under 40,000 psi. Due to the light weight of these carbines I find the FR7 with the reduced loads much more pleasant to shoot. Kicks about like a 7.62x39. I haven't shot the FR8 for over a year now but may begin using reduced loads in both just so the FR8 can get some range time.

Nice looking FR7, BTW...

-Bob

[jbs]

Yea, if I start reloading for 308 I'd shoot it, but the plastic bullets are fun. Gives practice getting sight pictures. It would probably be fine with full loads but I have the FR8 to shoot those so I guess there's no need.

[VMASCIOP2000]

That one looks like the finish is new/unused. Quite a beauty.

[swede]

They are great. I have one that I shoot nato ammo through

[Polock]

I like what RWS opined---that said, a guy at our milsurp shoot used a very nice 1916 arsenal-redo to 7.62 NATO. He is not a reloader, so was using the cheapest ammo he could find at Walmart/gun shows. Never had a problem---BUT---we found him a lovely 03A3 Smith Corona (all correct) at a dynamite price and he has recovered from the Mauser. He is a neat guy, so not sure if we found him the rifle out of our own self-interest (I shoot at the bench nest to him) or 'cause he is an OK friend!

I kind of look at those early Spanish Mausers the same as low-numbered 03 Springfields--I don't hesitate to shoot them, but am careful.