More like the 8x57 was derived from the 9.3x62 as the 9.3 is a longer case - powder capacity and bigger bullet diameter
- Case Length: The 9.3x62 has a much longer case, measuring 62mm, compared to the 57mm of the 8x57 (as indicated by their names).
- Case Capacity: The 9.3x62 has a larger case body and more capacity, allowing for higher powder capacity, often pushing 286-grain bullets to around 2,300–2,400 fps (approx. 3,600+ ft-lbs). The 8x57 (with a 200-grain bullet) usually operates in the 2,500 fps range, offering lower recoil and energy but a flatter trajectory.
- Body Diameter: The 9.3x62 has a slightly larger body diameter (approx. .450"–.454" at the shoulder) compared to the 8x57.
- Case Head Diameter: Both use the standard Mauser bolt face, which is nominally .473 inches, allowing them to be easily used in the same Mauser 98 actions.
- Performance: The 9.3x62 is considered a medium-bore cartridge, suitable for big game, including dangerous game in Africa, while the 8x57 is an excellent medium-game cartridge for deer, elk, and moose, but with less knock-down power at long ranges.
- Rechambering: 8x57 rifles can often be reamed to 9.3x62 (or, more commonly, 9.3x57) because the 9.3x62 has a longer, larger body that will completely clean up the 8x57 chamber, but it often requires a longer, Mauser 98-type action due to the longer overall cartridge length (3.291").
