Rifleman Q&A: Crates Of Cartridge Curiosities

Q: I have in my possession two interesting wooden boxes containing two sealed ammunition cans each. I initially assumed the cartridges to be corrosive-primed and marked them as such with a paint pen, but lately I am not so sure. Would it be possible to identify the countries of origin and whether these cartridges are corrosive-primed or not by the markings on the cans and boxes?

A: Based on the information I have available, it would appear that the one ammo in question is chambered in what is commonly referred to as 8 mm Mauser. The markings indicate that it was produced in Romania at Factory 22, in 1978. This variety of ammunition was manufactured between 1972 and 1978, apparently for use by the Romanian Patriotic Guards.

If my information is correct, the load features a nominal 154-grain, copper-jacketed, armor-piercing bullet with a steel core. The case is lacquer-coated steel, featuring corrosive Berdan primers. The “380 buc” lettering refers to the quantity, and “Fara lame” indicates that the ammunition is not loaded into stripper clips. Both primer and bullet are sealed with a red compound.

The other label is from an Israeli source, but I can’t offer any other information. Keep in mind that “7.62” could refer to 7.62x39 mm, 7.62x51 mm or 7.62x54 mm R.