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Mk VIII out of Enfield rifles?
Posted: Wed Dec 20, 2017 8:44 pm
by Jimmy Joe Meeker
What is everyone's opinion on shooting British Mk VIII .303 ammo out of a rifle as opposed to the Vickers machine gun that it was originally designed for? I've heard that the Mk8 causes excessive bore wear in comparison to the Mk VII which was issued for the rifles, does anyone know how excessive the wear is? I've found some WW2 era Mk8 for pretty cheap and I'm sorely tempted to buy a bunch. Should I get the Mk8, or would I be better off paying more and getting the Mk7? As always a penny for your thoughts.
Re: Mk VIII out of Enfield rifles?
Posted: Wed Dec 20, 2017 11:47 pm
by millman
I know the cordite they used back then caused throat erosion, because it burned so hot. I have found reloading to be the best source for .303.
Re: Mk VIII out of Enfield rifles?
Posted: Thu Dec 21, 2017 1:49 pm
by awalker1829
Burning hot makes sense as Cordite was the universal ammunition propellant for the British-they used it for everything. British Army used it for small arms ammunition and artillery. Royal Navy used it for everything from small arms to the naval guns on their battleships.
That said, the formulation of Cordite changed over the years. Listed variants are Cordite Mk 1, Cordite MD, Cordite RDB, Cordite SC and Cordite N.
Re: Mk VIII out of Enfield rifles?
Posted: Thu Dec 21, 2017 6:35 pm
by Longcolt44
Cordite is a very fast powder. How can they say powder when it is clear that it is little sticks.