Ammunition - Hand loading

If you want to use all new, modern reloading components then there is plenty of load data available from the normal sources. Although component choices are somewhat limited, you should be able to work up a decent hunting load. There are almost no "match" bullets for 8mm (just the 200 gr. Sierra), so any pursuits of accuracy will be limited by the trade offs made to produce reliable hunting bullets. That doesn't mean that you can't get good accuracy, but you won't be able to compete over the course against a 30-06 with match bullets.

One option for taming Turkish ammo is downloading the powder charge. This is a simple operation, but isn't something a first time hand loader should tackle. You can also put in a new commercial bullet at this point. This can give you a decent hunting round and will very likely improving accuracy. The biggest problem with downloading is the complete lack of loading data. Developing your own loads from Turkish components can be very time consuming as well as risky.

This is why you can't, easily, reload your milsurp cases. They use the Berdan primer system, which has the anvil part of the primer built into the case. The two smaller holes are the flash holes. On this case, Yugo 1952, the primer was staked (the 3 indents) to hold it in place. This is a pretty hot primer and easily backs out of the primer pocket.

You can get some really nice loads using new, modern components. I'm not trying to convince you to try these loads, but rather to recognize the accuracy potential of the 8mm cartridge. I can't get 30-06 loads anywhere near this uniform and haven't done as well with .308 Win, although I don't have as much experience with .308 Win.

Here are a few charts from loads that I worked up using Vhit N140 powder. These loads are all with in the range given in modern reloading manuals. These tests were done with new unfired Remington brass and Federal 210 primers. I'm sure the actual numbers would be a bit different for once fired brass.

Notice the effect of switching rifles with the 185 grain Remington. As you can imagine, the bore diameters can vary quite a bit between rifles (this can be from wear, fouling or manufacturing). This will have a significant effect on velocity and some effect on chamber pressure.