I'll respond where needed only. When it comes to commercial grade ammo, you mentioned Federal, one thing you have to keep in mind is any American ammo will not be manufactured to full potential. Only Hornady loads the 8x57 to maximum strength. When it comes to scopes the technology has advanced so much. Even with your bottom of the barrel optics an scope now adays will be far superior to anything the Germans had back in the 30's or 40's. The only thing I would say is if you want something similar your best bet is to go with a 4, 6, or 8x fixed scope and keep your objective lense at 42mm or less.