This is about as far from S&W as you get. The strange and different always appeal to me. Recently purchased the Spanish FR8 7.62x51 round rifle. It is off the scale on cool looks and feels good. Now need to get an accurate reload, 150 or 165 gr bullet. Lot of confusion on loads posted on the net. Would like someones experienced loads that were accurate. Thanks
Cetme FR8
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hivel37
US Veteran
I’ve been tempted to get one of those but haven’t yet.
Handy size. Think I’d keep the pressure down.
That’ll be a lot of fun.
Handy size. Think I’d keep the pressure down.
That’ll be a lot of fun.
LVSteve
Member
The FR8 is a Mauser 98 action, you're not likely to break it. They do tend to have NATO spec chambers, i.e. generous. Mine headspaces on a no-go gauge, just.
Do not know about reloads but mine loves Portuguese surplus 7.62x51 ammo.
Do not know about reloads but mine loves Portuguese surplus 7.62x51 ammo.
Save that ammo for the "good days", it's not made anymore.
Yup, I have a full case and about 250 rounds in battle packs. My plan is to keep them all for use in the FR-8. I also have a couple thousand rounds of SA surplus 7.62x51 as well. Likely go through that first before the Port.
canoeguy
US Veteran
I had one, enjoyed shooting it except for one issue. When operating the bolt, the rear sight would bite my thumb, never found a way to manipulate the bolt during rapid fire without drawing blood. Not an issue with slow and careful operation of the bolt......
It is a neat, one of a kind rifle, sure to appreciate in value.
It is a neat, one of a kind rifle, sure to appreciate in value.
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I have seen these in the past but was not tempted to buy one. With a full .308 load that probably kicks like (wait for it, wait for it) a FR8 train. 
I have seen these in the past but was not tempted to buy one. With a full .308 load that probably kicks like (wait for it, wait for it) a FR8 train.
I don't find it to be any worse than a 1903 or a Mauser in 8mm. You want stout? A Enfield No5 with the recoil enhancing rubber buttstock insert. Now THAT is stout.
Saw a couple of things in this thread that makes me want to throw in my 2 cents worth. Learn to work the bolt with an open palm, It's the only way to clear the rear sight. You'll need a CETME sight adjust tool for windage and elevation adjustments of the front sight. Loosen the set screw first. FR-8 recoil is stout so I suggest starting loads with lighter bullets. Better yet cast bullets. I don't like getting load info from anyplace other than manuals or factory web sites, I've seen sketchy stuff in forums so that's all I've got.
I've two FR8s. Sold one to a friend, kept one. Only fired it once or twice. Need to do some reloading and shoot it some more.
I totally agree on the jungle carbine kick. OWWW! I bought one of the electroless nickel ones chambered in 7.62x51. It has the nice, broad butt plate. It kicks a whole lot less.
I totally agree on the jungle carbine kick. OWWW! I bought one of the electroless nickel ones chambered in 7.62x51. It has the nice, broad butt plate. It kicks a whole lot less.
