About 7.62x39 Ammo
7.62x39mm ammunition stands as one of the most iconic rifle cartridges in the world, known for its remarkable blend of power, reliability, and global influence.
Introduced in 1943 by the Soviet Union during World War II, the cartridge was developed by a team of Soviet engineers led by Nikolai Elizarov and Boris Semin.
Their goal was to create a versatile intermediate cartridge that would bridge the gap between full-power rifle rounds and pistol ammunition, offering soldiers controllable recoil while delivering significant stopping power on the battlefield.
The cartridge became synonymous with the legendary AK-47 rifle, which debuted in 1947 and solidified the 7.62x39mm as a symbol of ruggedness and reliability.
Over the decades, this ammunition has fueled countless conflicts, earning a reputation for functioning under harsh conditions and delivering effective performance at medium ranges.
Beyond its military origins, 7.62x39mm ammo has left a lasting mark on the shooting sports community. Hunters, sport shooters, and enthusiasts appreciate its affordability, moderate recoil, and widespread availability.
In North America, it has become a favorite among hunters pursuing medium-sized game like deer and hogs, particularly when loaded with soft-point or expanding bullets.
Sport shooters also embrace the cartridge for range sessions and competitions due to its balance of power and manageable recoil.
Modern 7.62x39mm ammunition is available in diverse configurations, from full metal jacket (FMJ) loads ideal for target practice and training, to soft-point (SP) and hollow-point (HP) bullets for hunting and personal defense.
This versatility keeps the cartridge relevant in both traditional sporting rifles and modern sporting platforms.
Today, 7.62x39mm ammo continues to be one of the most widely produced and utilized rifle cartridges globally. Its historical significance, coupled with practical performance for shooters of all levels, ensures its enduring popularity in the world of firearms.
Whether you’re a history buff, competitive shooter, or a hunter searching for a proven medium-caliber round, 7.62x39mm ammo delivers the power, reliability, and heritage that have defined its legendary reputation for nearly 80 years.
7.62×39 Ammo Types & Names
Since its initial introduction over 80 years ago, 7.62x39 ammunition has had many different name variations. Some of the most common include:
- 7.62x39mm Ammo
- 7.62x39 Cartridge
- 7.62 Soviet
- 7.62 Short
- 7.62 Warsaw Pact
Bullet Types
- Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): FMJ bullets feature a lead core encased in a harder metal jacket (often copper or steel). They’re known for reliable feeding and penetration but typically do not expand on impact, making them less ideal for hunting game.
- Soft Point (SP): Soft Point bullets have an exposed lead tip that expands upon impact, causing more significant wound channels for effective hunting of medium-sized game like deer or hogs. They balance deeper penetration with controlled expansion.
- Hollow Point (HP): HP bullets have a cavity in the tip that triggers rapid expansion upon hitting soft tissue, maximizing stopping power and limiting over-penetration. However, they can sometimes be less reliable in feeding from certain magazines or firearms.
- Ballistic Tip / Polymer Tip: These bullets combine a polymer tip with a lead core and metal jacket. The tip improves aerodynamics for better accuracy and initiates expansion on impact. They’re less common in 7.62x39mm but are gaining popularity among hunters seeking precision.
- Steel Core / Armor-Piercing: Often found in surplus ammunition, steel-core bullets penetrate barriers more effectively but are restricted or banned for civilian use in certain areas due to their armor-piercing potential.
Popular 7.62 Ammo Manufacturers
PMC Ammunition
South Korean manufacturer PMC produces reliable 7.62x39mm ammo that is praised for its consistent performance.
Wolf Ammunition
Wolf is well-known for producing affordable steel-cased 7.62x39mm ammunition, which is a favorite among budget-conscious shooters.
TulAmmo (Tula Cartridge Works)
Based in Russia, TulAmmo produces a large quantity of 7.62x39mm ammo. Like Wolf, they are known for their steel-cased, cost-effective options.
Federal Premium Ammunition
Federal is a U.S.-based company that offers high-quality 7.62x39mm ammunition, including options tailored for hunting and self-defense.
Hornady
Known for precision ammunition, Hornady produces 7.62x39mm ammo with high-quality bullets for improved accuracy and performance.
Winchester
As one of the oldest and most reputable ammunition manufacturers, Winchester produces a range of 7.62x39mm ammunition options.
Sellier & Bellot
This Czech manufacturer provides a range of 7.62x39mm ammo, including options with brass casings and high-quality bullets.
Fiocchi Ammunition
An Italian company with a strong reputation, Fiocchi produces 7.62x39mm ammunition that is well-regarded for its performance and consistency.
Prvi Partizan (PPU)
Based in Serbia, PPU produces a wide array of ammunition, including various loads of 7.62x39mm ammo with brass casings.
Why Choose 7.62×39 Ammo
GOOD PENETRATION
- 7.62x39 ammunition is known for its good penetration, making it an effective choice for hunting medium-sized game.
- Common bullet types for 7.62x39 ammo is Full Metal Jacket (FMJ), Soft Point (SP), Hollow Point (HP), and Armor-Piercing (AP).
MODERATE RECOIL
- 7.62x39 ammo has moderate recoil, making it easy to shoot accurately for extended periods of time.
RANGE EFFECTIVENESS
- 7.62x39 ammo is most effective at short to medium ranges, making it a popular choice for hunting and shooting in wooded areas.
TERMINAL BALLISTICS
- The cartridge is known for its moderate recoil and good penetration capabilities, making it a popular choice for hunting and military applications.
AFFORDABLE
- 7.62x39 ammunition is relatively affordable compared to other cartridges, making it a popular choice among budget-minded shooters.
AVAILABILITY
- 7.62x39 ammunition is widely available, and many manufacturers produce it, which contributes to its popularity making it easy to find online and at most gun stores.
The AK47 Rifle
What the AR15 is to the United States, the AK47 is to Russia and other Eastern European countries. First introduced in 1947, the Avtomat Kalashnikova (AK47) is a selective-fire rifle designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov.
One of the hallmarks of the AK47 is its versatility and service life. The rifle can easily be modified and customized in dozens of ways, from adding optics, rails, or other accessories.
Although similar, the original 7.62x39 caliber Kalashnikov has two popular variants that vary in receiver construction - the AKM and the AK74.
The AK47's popularity has also been fueled by its iconic design, distinctive shape, and popular features making it instantly recognizable.
Fast forward seventy years later, and the AK47 is one of the most widely used rifles in the world used by civilian and military personnel.
Popular 7.62x39mm Firearms
Century Arms Draco Micro AR Pistol
A compact pistol variant, blending the AK-47 style with the convenience of an AR pistol format.
Ruger American Ranch
This bolt-action rifle from Ruger is known for its accuracy and compact design, optimized for the 7.62x39mm cartridge.
Zastava Arms
Zastava, originating from Serbia, produces several firearms in the 7.62x39mm chambering, most notably the M70 variant of the AK-47.
Century WASR
A well-known and affordable variant of the AK-47, the WASR is imported and distributed by Century Arms.
COLT MFG Carbine
A carbine variant produced by the iconic Colt manufacturer, tailored for the 7.62x39mm round. Another offering from Colt, the CR6762 model is designed specifically for the 7.62x39mm cartridge, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
Kalashnikov USA
An American-based manufacturer producing firearms inspired by the original AK-47 designs, chambered in various calibers, including 7.62x39mm.
CMMG Resolute
A semi-automatic rifle that merges the design principles of the AR-15 with the 7.62x39mm cartridge, ensuring reliable function and performance.
Diamondback DB15
An AR-style rifle chambered in 7.62x39mm, the DB15 from Diamondback Firearms is known for its durability and versatility.
Riley Defense Inc. RAK-47
A modern take on the AK-47 design, the RAK-47 by Riley Defense Inc. is praised for its build quality and performance.
7.62x39 Ammo FAQs
QUESTION: What is 7.62x39 ammunition used for?
ANSWER: 7.62x39 ammunition is primarily used in rifles and carbines for hunting, self-defense, and military and law enforcement applications.
QUESTION: What firearms use 7.62x39 ammunition?
ANSWER: The most common firearms that use 7.62x39 ammunition are the AK-47 and its variants, as well as some other rifles and carbines made by various manufacturers.
QUESTION: How powerful is 7.62x39 ammunition?
ANSWER: 7.62x39 ammunition typically has a muzzle velocity of around 2,300 to 2,400 feet per second and produces around 1,500 to 1,800 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle, making it a moderately powerful round.
QUESTION: What are some common types of 7.62x39 ammo?
ANSWER: The most common bullet types for 7.62x39 ammunition include full metal jacket (FMJ), soft point (SP), and hollow point (HP).
QUESTION: Can 7.62x39 ammo be used for hunting?
ANSWER: Yes, 7.62x39 ammo is commonly used for hunting a variety of game, including deer, hogs, and other medium-sized game.
QUESTION: Is 7.62x39 ammunition interchangeable with other cartridges?
ANSWER: No, 7.62x39 ammo is not interchangeable with other cartridges. It is important to use the correct ammunition for your firearm to avoid damage or malfunction.
QUESTION: Can I buy 7.62x39 ammo in bulk?
ANSWER: Absolutely, 7.62x39 ammo is readily available in bulk quantities for target and hunting configurations. Additionally, buying in bulk quantities can even decrease your overall price per round. For the best online selection in bulk ammo, check out Ammunition Depot to find the right caliber to suit your budget and needs.