Norwegian Krags and SAMMI spec 6.5x55
I just acquired a very nice Norwegian Krag in 6.5x55. I would like to shot it and see how it does against my Swedish Mauser in the same caliber, but I read somewhere that the Norwegians loaded their 6.5x55 a bit lighter then the Swedes did :eek:. The 6.5x55 ammo I have it withing the SAMMI specs, but at the top end of the spec (as per the Sierra reloading manual). Is it safe to shoot in a Norwegian Krag, or do I need to load some a bit lighter? If so how much lighter.
Thanks
Howard
Finally, the answer to the question from hsr
Getting back to the original question from hsr, which has not yet been properly answered:
Since the Krag action is supposed to be weaker in the bolt locking than the Swedish Mauser, general safety principles indicate that you should start off with the lightest load from the manual, and work up carefully. checking for signs of overpressure - the standard procedure for all old rifles!
As you have already suspected yourself, the max. pressure according to SAAMI - which can only be valid for new rifles made to SAAMI specs, not for a 110-120 year old rifle that was NOT made to those specs - would be inadvisable for an old banger.
Patrick