It's an old myth that small ring Mauser's aren't capable of safely handling modern factory loadings. C.I.P., the Permanent International Commission for Firearms Testing in Europe allows the 7X57 to be loaded to 56,564 psi piezo pressure and the rifles have to be proofed at 125% of this maximum pressure to certify for sale to consumers. Load it up!
Thank you very much!
Late to the show. Husqvarna also made the 640 with the small ring receiver in 8x57. They actually used both large ring (from FN) and small ring actions for Model 640s in 8x57. Kind of confusing. However, the Husqvarna factory considered them strong enough for European, as in mainly Norma, ammunition, so a 7x57 would be no challenge. My 640 is a large ring, kind of wish it was a trimmer small ring like my Model 46 rifles.
Always better late than never. I appreciate your input.