Hammergun,
If it is 8x57I,it will be no harder to load for than 8x57IS.If the barrel/chamber does demand .318" bullets, Buffalo Arms has them in several weights. Your rifle may accept 32Winch.Special bullets(.321")or even .323"(even if marked for .318"bullets).American 8x57 factory ammo is loaded "down" so to be safe in 8x57I rifles.You can shoot a box or two of factory ammo and have readymade cases to load up to the rifle's potential.This rifle is not a collector's item, but will make a very good hunting rifle.It would be no great sin to have a scope mounted on it.
Mike
