What is 7.62×39 Ammo?
The 7.62×39 caliber is a popular and versatile rifle cartridge that has gained widespread use in various regions around the world. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the 7.62×39 ammunition, its history, characteristics, and applications.
What is 7.62×39 ammo?
The 7.62×39 caliber is a rimless bottlenecked intermediate cartridge designed to fire a 9.5mm (0.375 inches) diameter bullet at a velocity of around 2,300-2,400 feet per second (fps). The 7.62×39 cartridge is notable for its moderate recoil, moderate muzzle energy, and excellent accuracy. This combination of characteristics makes it an attractive choice for hunting, target shooting, and military applications.
History of 7.62×39 Ammo
The 7.62×39 cartridge was developed in the Soviet Union in the 1940s and 1950s, specifically for the AK-47 assault rifle. The cartridge was designed to fire a lighter bullet than the standard 7.62×51 NATO cartridge, which was used in American and Western European rifles at the time. The 7.62×39 cartridge was intended to be a more efficient and cost-effective alternative for Soviet forces.
Characteristics of 7.62×39 Ammo
Here are some key characteristics of 7.62×39 ammunition:
• Bullet diameter: 9.5mm (0.375 inches)
• Case length: 39mm (1.54 inches)
• Case capacity: approximately 2.3 cubic centimeters (0.14 cubic inches)
• Muzzle velocity: around 2,300-2,400 feet per second (fps)
• Muzzle energy: approximately 1,500-1,700 foot-pounds (J)
• Recoil: moderate
Variations of 7.62×39 Ammo
Over the years, several variations of the 7.62×39 cartridge have been developed, including:
• M43: The original Soviet variant, used in the AK-47 and AKM rifles.
• 5.6x39mm: A Chinese variant with a slightly shorter case and reduced velocity.
• 7.62x39mm Russian: A modified variant with a slightly shorter case and reduced velocity.
• 7.62x39mm Soviet: The original Soviet variant, still widely used today.
• 7.62x39mm AKM: A variant developed specifically for the AKM rifle.
Applications of 7.62×39 Ammo
The 7.62×39 cartridge has been used in a wide range of applications, including:
• Assault rifles: The AK-47 and AKM rifles, which were designed specifically for the 7.62×39 cartridge.
• Hunting: The 7.62×39 cartridge is popular for hunting small to medium-sized game, due to its moderate recoil and excellent accuracy.
• Target shooting: The cartridge is widely used in competitive target shooting, due to its accuracy and moderate recoil.
• Military and law enforcement: The 7.62×39 cartridge is still used in some military and law enforcement applications, particularly in areas where the AK-47 and AKM rifles are used.
Comparison with Other Cartridges
Here is a comparison of the 7.62×39 cartridge with other popular cartridges:
| Cartridge | Bullet diameter | Case length | Muzzle velocity | Muzzle energy | Recoil |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7.62x39mm | 9.5mm | 39mm | 2,300-2,400 fps | 1,500-1,700 ft-lbs | Moderate |
| 7.62x51mm NATO | 7.62mm | 51mm | 2,700-2,800 fps | 2,000-2,200 ft-lbs | High |
| 5.56x45mm NATO | 5.56mm | 45mm | 2,900-3,000 fps | 1,000-1,200 ft-lbs | Low |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 7.62×39 cartridge is a versatile and widely used rifle cartridge with a rich history and many applications. Its moderate recoil, excellent accuracy, and moderate muzzle energy make it an attractive choice for hunters, target shooters, and military personnel. Whether used in an AK-47 or AKM rifle or as a hunting cartridge, the 7.62×39 cartridge is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and accurate rifle cartridge.
