Schwarzlose HMG Converted to 8x57mm by Romania

Published on October 28, 2018
Duration: 10:50

This video details the Romanian conversion of the Austro-Hungarian Schwarzlose HMG to fire 8x57mm Mauser. Key modifications include a lengthened barrel and water jacket, achieved by welding sections into existing components. The rear sights were recalibrated for the new caliber, and the original oiling system for extraction was deactivated. These guns are often encountered today as parts kits imported after 1968, typically built on original receivers.

Quick Summary

Romania converted the Schwarzlose HMG to 8x57mm Mauser due to non-standard cartridge usage, contracting FN for the work. Modifications included extending the barrel and water jacket via welding, recalibrating sights, and deactivating the oiling system. These guns are often found today as parts kits built on original receivers.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Romanian Schwarzlose 8x57mm Conversion
  2. 01:35Water Jacket & Barrel Modifications
  3. 02:50Sight Adjustments for 8mm Mauser
  4. 04:11Import History & Parts Kits
  5. 06:23Deactivation of Oiling System

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Romania convert the Schwarzlose HMG to 8x57mm Mauser?

Romania converted the Schwarzlose HMG to 8x57mm Mauser because their military did not use the original 8x50mm Mannlicher cartridge. They contracted FN to perform these conversions, which involved significant modifications to the firearm.

What were the main gunsmithing modifications for the Romanian Schwarzlose conversion?

Key modifications included lengthening the barrel and the water jacket by welding sections into existing components. The rear sights were also replaced and recalibrated for the 8x57mm Mauser cartridge, and the original oiling system was deactivated.

How are Romanian converted Schwarzlose HMGs typically found today?

These guns were imported into the US after 1968 primarily as parts kits. Consequently, they are often found today as builds using original Austro-Hungarian receivers combined with the Romanian conversion parts kits.

What is unique about the rear sight markings on the converted Schwarzlose?

The rear sight dials on the Romanian 8x57mm converted Schwarzlose feature two sets of range markings: 'S' for light spitzer ball (approx. 150 grain) and 'SS' for heavy spitzer ball (approx. 196 grain), allowing sighting for different ammunition loads.

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