What Ammo Does AK47 Use?
The AK47, designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov in the 1940s, is one of the most iconic and widely used assault rifles in the world. Its reliability, durability, and simplicity have made it a favorite among military forces, law enforcement agencies, and civilian shooters alike. But what kind of ammunition does this legendary rifle use?
Standard Issue Ammunition
The AK47 is designed to fire a 7.62x39mm cartridge, which is a rimless, bottlenecked intermediate cartridge. This cartridge is specifically designed for the AK47 and is not interchangeable with other rifle cartridges. The 7.62x39mm cartridge has a muzzle velocity of approximately 735 meters per second (2,410 feet per second) and a maximum effective range of around 400-500 meters (1,312-1,640 feet).
Ammunition Types
The 7.62x39mm cartridge is available in various types, including:
• Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): This is the most common type of 7.62x39mm ammunition. FMJ bullets have a lead core encased in a thin layer of copper or brass, and are designed for target shooting and general-purpose use.
• Soft Point (SP): SP bullets have a softer lead core than FMJ bullets and are designed for hunting and self-defense. They expand upon impact, causing more damage to the target.
• Hollow Point (HP): HP bullets have a hollow tip and are designed for hunting and self-defense. They expand upon impact, causing more damage to the target.
• Tracer (TR): TR bullets have a pyrotechnic charge in the tip that ignites when the bullet exits the barrel, creating a visible trail.
• Armor-Piercing (AP): AP bullets are designed to penetrate armor and are typically used by military forces.
Ammunition Comparison
Here is a comparison of the most common types of 7.62x39mm ammunition:
| Type | Muzzle Velocity (m/s) | Muzzle Energy (J) | Effective Range (m) | Expansion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FMJ | 735 | 1,400 | 400-500 | Minimal |
| SP | 725 | 1,350 | 300-400 | Moderate |
| HP | 720 | 1,300 | 250-350 | Significant |
| TR | 700 | 1,200 | 200-300 | N/A |
| AP | 680 | 1,100 | 150-250 | Minimal |
Subsonic Ammunition
The AK47 is capable of firing subsonic ammunition, which is designed to reduce the muzzle velocity to below the speed of sound (approximately 343 meters per second or 1,125 feet per second). Subsonic ammunition is used for suppressed fire, as it reduces the noise and flash associated with firing a rifle.
Brands and Manufacturers
The 7.62x39mm cartridge is manufactured by several reputable brands, including:
• Wolf Ammunition: Known for their high-quality, imported ammunition.
• Red Army Standard: A popular choice among AK47 shooters, offering a range of ammunition types.
• Tula Cartridge Works: A Russian manufacturer of 7.62x39mm ammunition.
• Federal Premium: A US-based manufacturer of 7.62x39mm ammunition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the AK47 is designed to fire a 7.62x39mm cartridge, which is available in various types, including full metal jacket, soft point, hollow point, tracer, and armor-piercing. Understanding the characteristics of each type of ammunition can help shooters make informed decisions about their ammunition choices. Whether you’re a military operator, law enforcement officer, or civilian shooter, the AK47 is a reliable and effective weapon that requires the right ammunition to perform at its best.
