doublegunshop.com - home Forums General Discussion DoubleGun BBS @ doublegunshop.com Caliber identification please!!

I recently acquired this German (i believe) rifle with 6,3mm over 52 marked on the bottom of the barrel. It also says KmG with a line under it and 75gr below the line. It has the crown over B, crown over G and crown over U as well. Just below the 6,3mm over 52 are the numbers 1037 over 331 with a sideways 4 under that. Can someone help identify what caliber it is as I would love to be able to shoot it. Thanks for all of your help!!

Off the cuff & without an image, I'd say it is 6,5x52R, being almost identical to the .25/35 but typically loaded to a bit less pressure than the US round. The numbers 1037 over 331 could be a Zella Sankt Blasii - Mehlis proof date & ledger number being Nr. 331 for Oktober 1937??

Serbus,

Raimey
rse

I'd add a picture, but I'm not seeing that option. Is there something I'm missing to post a picture?

Scott,
Try jpgbox.com.
Karl

Scotrod85,
The German system of proof marks can be very confusing concerning the cartridge used in a particular rifle. In spite of this, some cartridges are virtually not in question. I believe your rifle is one of these and Raimey's assessment is correct. There is normally no problem using American 25-35 Win. ammunition in a 6,5x52R rifle, except the point of impact of the bullet may need adjusting due to the slightly different load. Considering what we must go through to shoot some other German rifles, you are very lucky to have one you can use American ammo in.
Mike

Thanks for the tip Karl. Here is the link to the pics.

[img][IMG]https://www.jpgbox.com/jpg/71806_600x400.jpg[/img][/img]

Yes, this longarm in the final state passed thru the Zella - Mehlis Proof facility in Oktober, 1937 being # 331 thru the proof facility for that month.

Serbus,

Raimey
rse