8 x 64 S Load Data

The 8 x 64 S cartridge holds a fascinating place in European ammunition history. Developed in Germany by Wilhelm Brenneke in 1912, the 8 x 64 S was designed as a powerful hunting round intended to outperform the 8 x 57 mm Mauser. Brenneke’s idea was to create a cartridge with a longer case, allowing for a higher powder charge and, consequently, higher velocities. Its “S” designation refers to the .323-inch (8.2 mm) bullet diameter, which was already standard on the 8 x 57 IS. Despite demonstrating outstanding ballistics and being suitable for robust rifles like the Mauser 98, the 8 x 64 S struggled with military adoption, as it did not fit the requirements for existing service rifles. Still, it gained a solid reputation among hunters and marksmen in Central Europe throughout the interwar period and beyond.

Thanks to its exceptional power and versatility, the 8 x 64 S became an established cartridge for a wide spectrum of hunting applications. This round excels as a big game hunting caliber and has built its reputation on both woodland stalks and open-country hunts. In countries like Germany and Austria, it became a favorite for those seeking a balance between .30-caliber flat-shooting capability and the knockdown force necessary for heavier European game. The extended case, greater powder capacity, and sturdy bullet design all combine to deliver flatter trajectories and superior terminal performance. For reloaders, the 8 x 64 S offers the flexibility to tailor loads for different hunting requirements, making it a prized choice for dedicated enthusiasts who favor Mauser-action rifles and custom builds.

When it comes to target species, the 8 x 64 S truly shines as a classic European all-rounder. Its energy and ballistic performance place it firmly in the category suitable for large game such as wild boar, red deer, and even European elk and moose. In Africa, some hunters have also used the cartridge for plains game, where its high velocity and effective bullet weights ensure deep penetration and reliable stopping power. While it is versatile enough for smaller game with lighter loads, the cartridge is most recognized for its ability to humanely take down medium to large game at considerable distances. This makes it an especially appealing choice for reloaders who require a single cartridge for a variety of hunting environments.

Typical bullet weights for the 8 x 64 S range from 180 to 200 grains (11.7–13 grams), with some loadings available as light as 150 grains and as heavy as 220 grains for specialized applications. These bullet options provide reloaders with abundant flexibility: lighter projectiles excel in achieving higher muzzle velocities and flatter trajectories, while heavier bullets are preferred for deep penetration and controlled expansion on larger animals. The cartridge operates at pressures comparable to other high-powered sporting cartridges, with a case length of 64 mm and an overall cartridge length of around 88 mm. The strong, rimless design of the case ensures reliable feeding and extraction, especially in bolt-action rifles. For experienced reloaders, the 8 x 64 S remains a classic that emulates the best characteristics of early 20th-century German cartridge design—combining efficient performance, versatility, and a well-established legacy among Europe’s most respected hunting rounds.