Like the 7x57, the 6.5x57 Mauser is based on the M/88 8x57mm case. Information regarding the development of the 6.5x57 is scarce however the suggested year of introduction, 1890, occurred at a similar time to Mauser’s involvement in attempts to develop a 6.5 caliber rifle for the Italian military (see 6.5x55 text). The 6.5x57 never saw military service although research no doubt helped later in the design of the military 6.5x58 Portuguese Mauser. Introduced as a sporting cartridge, the 6.5x57 was initially loaded with a 154 grain round nosed bullet producing 2400fps. Because of this long bullet, rifles chambered in 6.5x57 had extremely long throats, like the Swede. These specifications now CIP certified, are still used in Europe today.
Since its introduction the 6.5x57 has grown to become a standard German deer stalking cartridge. Two main factors influence the common use of the 6.5x57 and the first of these is German law. German caliber restrictions state firstly that for Roe deer any caliber may be used, as long as the projectile has a minimum impact energy of 1000 joules (738ftlbs) at 100 meters (110 yards). However for all other hoofed game, this includes Chamois, Fallow, Boar and Red deer, the minimum caliber allowable is 6.5mm and must yield 2000 Joules or 1475ftlbs at 100 meters or 110 yards. With modern German factory ammunition, the 6.5x57 is the minimum allowable cartridge certifiable for all round hunting. The second factor influencing the use of the 6.5x57 in Germany is that the 6.5 caliber and local loadings help ensure minimal meat damage as often the carcass is destined for sale.
A second version of the 6.5x57 is the 6.5x57R rimmed version for break open rifles. Besides the rim, other case dimensions are the same as the parent design. The 6.5x57 is very similar in performance to the 6.5x55. Velocities of both cartridges are near identical. Factory ammunition is typically weak in comparison to hand loads.
