Anybody have an FR8?

[steve2071]

I've been jonesing to pick up a vintage bolt gun and the FR8 has piqued my interest. It shoots 7.62 so I don't have to worry about getting into a new caliber and they go for fairly cheap. Another big plus is that the rifle is significantly shorter than most Mauser-type rifles. So far, I like what I see.

Any opinions on this rifle?

[StukaJr]

I have one and I like it. What condition are you looking to get? Mine have seen its share of training service but I have seen some get unissued and fresh out of the crate. They should come with a bayonet and a sling too - nice bonus, considering that some pig stickers cost more than the rifle itself :) They are not much for craftsmanship and share most parts with Spanish mauser or CETME rifles - my stock looks like someone took a hacksaw to the original Mauser's stock and didn't even seal the wood before installing the metal cap :)

It's chambered for 7.62 Nato, so I wouldn't shoot any hunting .308 through it - the commercial .308 have higher running pressures than original Nato loads. Also, you'll only have about 16" or so of the actual bore with a "birdcage" flash hider - even with mild handloads it's a hefty donkey kick to the shoulder, anything more powerful will just end up as fireball and noise. Sights are adjustable out to 400 yards, chamber is a little generous but not as much as some surplus rifles out there. Standard Mauser action but the handle is straight instead of curved - feeds from a 5 round internal magazine but I usually cycle slow to retain the brass (I'm fire-forming for the chamber).

It will probably not be your favorite rifle to shoot, unless you find Mosin's a hoot to shoot. It's short and handy, easy 200-300 yard rifle - has a very distinct look of what the heck, too...