GunsAmerica

Quick Look

8mm ammunition dates back to early 20th-century military rifle calibers, notably the 8×57mm Mauser. Designed for balanced power and range, it served widely in European service rifles. Today, 8mm ammo remains popular among collectors and hunters seeking classic calibers with effective ballistics.

Why It's a Top Choice

Reliable performance in bolt-action and semi-auto rifles
Effective range and stopping power for medium game
Wide availability of surplus and commercial loads
Compatible with various 8mm rifle variants
Strong historical and collector appeal

Key Variants

8×57mm Mauser

Classic military rifle cartridge ideal for collectors and traditional hunting setups.

8mm Kurz

German intermediate cartridge suited for short to mid-range engagements.

8mm Lebel

Pioneering smokeless powder round used in late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	8mm Ammo	.30-06 Springfield	.308 Winchester
MSRP	$1.00 - $1.50 per round	$0.70 - $1.20 per round	$0.80 - $1.40 per round
Capacity/Size	Varies by rifle, typical bolt-action	Varies; popular in rifles and M1 Garand	Varies; widely used in bolt actions and semi-autos
Weight	Typically 196–198 grains bullet	150–180 grains bullet typical	147–168 grains bullet typical
Optics-Ready	Depends on rifle	Commonly optics-ready	Commonly optics-ready
Trigger Type	Bolt-action or semi-auto designs	Bolt-action and semi-auto	Bolt-action and semi-auto
Notable Pro	Historical military legacy, reliable	Versatile, widespread availability	Highly accurate and popular hunting round
Notable Con	Less common commercially today	More recoil than modern rounds	Slightly less power than .30-06

Best Use Cases

Medium-game hunting with vintage or modern rifles
Historical firearm collection and shooting
Target practice in bolt-action rifles
Self-defense in rural settings

FAQs

Can I use 8mm ammo in any rifle?

No, 8mm ammunition must match the rifle chambering exactly to ensure safety and function.

What is the typical bullet weight for 8mm ammo?

Most 8mm rounds use bullets between 196 and 198 grains, balancing power and trajectory.

How does 8mm ammo compare to .30-06 Springfield?

8mm ammo offers similar ballistics with historical military origins, but .30-06 has broader modern availability.

8MM AMMO for Sale