10.75 x 68 Load Data

The 10.75 x 68 mm Mauser cartridge, sometimes known as the 10.75mm Mauser, has an intriguing place in ammunition history, particularly among enthusiasts of classic big-game cartridges. Introduced by the German arms manufacturer Mauser around 1922, this rimless, bottlenecked cartridge was designed primarily for use in Mauser 98 rifles—an action that became renowned for its strength and reliability. During the early part of the 20th century, European hunters in Africa and India often sought a hard-hitting round capable of stopping large and dangerous game. The 10.75 x 68, with its large case capacity and substantial bullet diameter, fit that niche, making it a favorite among professional hunters and sport shooters of the era.

The primary applications of the 10.75 x 68 have centered on hunting large, tough, and potentially dangerous game animals. In Africa, it was chosen by hunters targeting the so-called "Big Five": elephant, rhinoceros, buffalo, lion, and leopard. Its design allowed for sufficient stopping power to deal with close encounters where quick, decisive performance was critical. While not as powerful as some larger Nitro Express cartridges, the 10.75 x 68’s manageable recoil and reliability in bolt-action rifles made it a practical alternative for repeated use and follow-up shots. In India, it was similarly used for tigers and other formidable game, where deep penetration and wide bullet expansion were essential.

When it comes to target species, the 10.75 x 68 was optimized for large dangerous game, but its versatility made it viable for a range of other big game as well. Hunters pursued cape buffalo, African lion, and nilgai with confidence, knowing the cartridge would provide the necessary energy and wound channel for ethical kills. Its relatively moderate muzzle velocity meant reduced meat damage compared to some magnum cartridges, attracting hunters looking for an all-around performer for medium to large game in thick cover, where fast follow-up shots were more achievable than with larger, more punishing calibers.

Typical bullet weights for the 10.75 x 68 mm Mauser range from 347 grains to around 400 grains, with the 347-grain soft point being the standard and most widely available load during its heyday. These bullets, typically of soft-point or full-metal-jacket construction, offered deep penetration and robust terminal performance. The cartridge itself usually delivered muzzle velocities in the 2200-2250 feet per second range, generating muzzle energies suitable for large and dangerous game. Its case length and diameter allow for significant powder capacity, which paired well with period-specific smokeless propellants. The 10.75 x 68’s design provided dependable feeding in controlled-round-feed Mauser actions, a critical feature for reliability under stress. While less common today, it remains a respected classic among collectors and dedicated reloaders who enjoy the challenge and heritage of big-bore hunting cartridges.