What Rounds Do AK-47 Shoot?
The AK-47, designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov in the 1940s, is one of the most iconic and widely used assault rifles in the world. With its reliability, durability, and ease of use, it has become a staple in many military and paramilitary forces. But what rounds does the AK-47 shoot?
The Original Rounds
The AK-47 was designed to fire the 7.62x39mm cartridge, which was a new caliber at the time. The 7.62x39mm round was specifically designed for the AK-47 and was intended to be a more effective and reliable round than the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge used by Western forces. The 7.62x39mm round has a muzzle velocity of approximately 700-800 meters per second (2,300-2,600 feet per second) and a maximum effective range of around 400-500 meters (1,312-1,640 feet).
Variations and Modifications
Over the years, the AK-47 has been modified and upgraded to fire various rounds, including:
- 7.62x39mm M43: This is the original round designed for the AK-47 and is still widely used today.
- 7.62x39mm M67: This is a slightly modified version of the original round, with a slightly higher muzzle velocity and improved accuracy.
- 5.45x39mm: This is a smaller caliber round designed for the AK-74, a later version of the AK-47. The 5.45x39mm round has a muzzle velocity of approximately 900-1,000 meters per second (2,950-3,300 feet per second) and a maximum effective range of around 500-600 meters (1,640-1,970 feet).
- 5.56x45mm: Some AK-47 variants have been modified to fire the 5.56x45mm NATO round, which is used by many Western forces. The 5.56x45mm round has a muzzle velocity of approximately 900-1,000 meters per second (2,950-3,300 feet per second) and a maximum effective range of around 500-600 meters (1,640-1,970 feet).
Comparison of Rounds
Here is a comparison of the three main rounds used by the AK-47:
| Round | Muzzle Velocity (m/s) | Maximum Effective Range (m) | Weight (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7.62x39mm M43 | 700-800 | 400-500 | 8.4 |
| 7.62x39mm M67 | 800-900 | 500-600 | 8.4 |
| 5.45x39mm | 900-1,000 | 500-600 | 4.1 |
Why the AK-47 Fights in Different Rounds
The AK-47 has been modified to fire different rounds for various reasons, including:
- Weight reduction: The 5.45x39mm round is lighter than the 7.62x39mm round, making it easier to carry and more efficient for long-range engagements.
- Improved accuracy: The 5.45x39mm round has a smaller diameter and a more aerodynamic shape, making it more accurate and easier to aim.
- Increased penetration: The 7.62x39mm round has a larger diameter and more kinetic energy, making it more effective against armor and heavier targets.
- Availability: The 5.56x45mm round is widely available and used by many Western forces, making it a convenient option for AK-47 variants designed for international use.
Conclusion
The AK-47 is a versatile and reliable assault rifle that has been modified to fire various rounds over the years. From the original 7.62x39mm round to the newer 5.45x39mm and 5.56x45mm rounds, the AK-47 has proven to be an effective and adaptable weapon. Whether used for military, paramilitary, or civilian purposes, the AK-47 remains a popular choice for its reliability, durability, and ease of use.
