The 7.63×25mm Mauser cartridge has a bullet diameter of 7.86 mm (0.309 in) and a case length of 25.15 mm (0.990 in), with an overall length of 34.80 mm (1.370 in). Standard loadings typically use a 5.6 g (86 gr) full metal jacket (FMJ) bullet, achieving a muzzle velocity of 441 m/s (1,450 ft/s) and delivering 545 J (402 ft·lbf) of energy. Some manufacturers offer variations, such as Fiocchi’s 5.7 g (88 gr) FMJ load, which achieves 435 m/s (1,427 ft/s) and 540 joules of energy. The cartridge is known for its high velocity and flat trajectory, which were notable for a pistol cartridge of its era, contributing to good penetration and extended range.
The 7.63×25mm Mauser is a bottleneck, rimless, centerfire cartridge that headspaces on the shoulder of the case. It was originally developed for the Mauser C96 service pistol and is sometimes confused with the later 7.65mm Parabellum cartridge. Modern reloadable cases can be formed from 9mm Winchester Magnum or 5.56mm NATO, though the latter requires additional neck-reaming. For optimal accuracy in Mauser firearms, bullets of .311″ or .312″ diameter are recommended, with the Hornady 85 grain .312″ XTP being a particularly effective choice. However, firearms like the Tokarev TT-33 and Czech CZ-52 function better with .308″ bullets designed for the 7.62mm Luger and .30″ M-1 carbine rounds.
The cartridge’s high velocity and performance made it effective for military and law enforcement applications, particularly valued for barrier penetration and extended range. It served as the basis for the 7.62×25mm Tokarev cartridge used by the Soviet Union, though the Tokarev has a stronger powder charge and is generally not safe for use in firearms chambered for the 7.63×25mm Mauser. Conversely, the 7.63×25mm Mauser can be safely used in firearms chambered for the 7.62×25mm Tokarev, a fact exploited during World War II when German and Finnish forces used captured Soviet submachine guns with 7.63×25mm Mauser ammunition.
(Source : AI Generated Data)