7.5x55mm Schmidt-Rubin / 7.5mm Swiss (175 GR Berger Bullets Data)

7.5 × 55 mm Schmidt–Rubin / 7.5 mm Swiss (175 gr Berger Bullets Data)

The 7.5 × 55 mm Swiss cartridge—also referred to as the 7.5 mm Schmidt–Rubin—is a high-quality military rifle cartridge introduced in Switzerland in 1911 for rifles such as the K11 and the K31. While its standard military issue bullet was 174 gr (GP11), many handloaders today opt for premium bullets in the 175-grain class from manufacturers such as Berger Bullets, leveraging modern bullet designs and match-grade components to improve accuracy and performance.

According to archived load tables referenced from Berger’s 175-gr offerings, this bullet weight yields highly consistent performance when paired with carefully selected powders in the Swiss case. Example published velocities for 175 gr Berger bullets in the 7.5×55mm cartridge include:

• IMR-4350: start ~2,363 fps, max ~2,483 fps
• H-4350: start ~2,358 fps, max ~2,487 fps
• AAC-4350: start ~2,438 fps, max ~2,555 fps
• Winchester W-760: start ~2,430 fps, max ~2,560 fps
• Norma N-204: start ~2,392 fps, max ~2,516 fps

Key practical considerations for reloaders working this data:

• Bullet diameter & fit: Many Swiss barrels measure approximately .306" groove diameter, so proper bullet sizing (commonly .308"–.310" for modern bullets) and seating depth are essential for accuracy and safety.
• Case and chamber condition: Swiss brass is known for its excellent manufacturing, but rifles may vary. It is vital to inspect surplus brass for expansion, trimming, uniform neck tension, and ensure your rifle’s chamber is in good condition. Supportive case prep helps achieve the low standard deviations that the 175-grain Berger bullet can deliver.
• Load development practices: Start with powder charges well under the maximum listings, confirm chronograph readings and pressure signs, then work up slowly. Despite the high performance, you should prioritize balance and accuracy over chasing highest velocity alone.

When optimized, the 7.5×55mm Swiss with a 175-gr Berger bullet offers shooters a blend of historical cartridge charm and modern precision performance. It is particularly well suited for surplus Swiss rifles with tight bores and excellent barrels, delivering accurate, moderate-recoil rifle performance suitable for target shooting or light to medium game. By using top-tier bullets like the 175-gr Berger and matching them with appropriate powder/bullet combinations, many veterans of the platform achieve sub-MOA groups and consistent chrono results.

Source: Berger Bullets 175-gr match-bullet data (via load-data archive) & historical cartridge references for 7.5 × 55 mm Swiss.