I now have a new loading challenge/puzzle to solve. I just picked up an Uruguayan 1871 Mauser/Dovitis chambered in the 6.5x53.5R Daudeteau cartridge. I was considering putting this under the single shot heading because it is not dressed in it's original military uniform. But since it's roots are military I figured others loading this round would be here.
The barreled action has been really gone over, polished and blued a really nice deep finish. The bolt handle has been replaced with a spoon type. It has the original ladder type rear sight, the front sight is now a ramp style with a fiber optic orange insert. The original brass trigger guard has been trimmed up a bit. The stock is a very fine custom job with beautifully executed checkering on the fore end, pistol grip and wooden butt plate.
The bore is very shiny clean with very deep, sharp rifling. It slugs to .268/.265.
I have bought plenty of 7.62x54R brass from another member, but sourcing a lead cast .268/.269, 160gr boolit may be a bit difficult. I also need to source dies, it appears the ch4d set seems to be a great way to go, just back ordered awhile.