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What Ammo Does AK-47 Use? The Definitive Guide

The AK-47, a symbol of global conflict and enduring reliability, is chambered for a specific cartridge that has contributed significantly to its widespread use: the 7.62x39mm. This guide provides a comprehensive exploration of the ammunition used in AK-47 rifles, delving into its characteristics, performance, and variations. Understanding the nuances of AK-47 ammunition is crucial for anyone interested in the firearm, whether for historical, practical, or technical reasons. We’ll explore not only the standard 7.62x39mm but also delve into less common variations and calibers that have been adapted for use in AK-pattern rifles, offering a complete overview of the AK-47’s ammunition landscape.

The 7.62x39mm Cartridge: Core of the AK-47

The 7.62x39mm cartridge is the defining ammunition for the AK-47. Developed in the Soviet Union during World War II, it was designed to be a potent intermediate cartridge, bridging the gap between pistol rounds and full-power rifle cartridges. Its design philosophy emphasized a balance of manageable recoil, effective range, and sufficient stopping power, making it ideal for the close-to-medium range engagements that characterized modern infantry combat. The 7.62x39mm round features a .310 inch diameter bullet, typically weighing between 122 and 125 grains. The cartridge itself is bottlenecked, meaning the case narrows down to accommodate the bullet, which contributes to improved feeding reliability in automatic weapons like the AK-47. The cartridge has a rimless design for smooth magazine feeding. This design is a major contributor to the AK-47’s legendary reliability.

The 7.62x39mm cartridge delivers a muzzle velocity of approximately 2,330 feet per second (710 m/s), resulting in a muzzle energy of around 1,550 foot-pounds (2,100 J). These figures translate to a practical effective range of approximately 300-400 meters, making it well-suited for most combat scenarios. While not as flat-shooting as some smaller caliber rounds, the 7.62x39mm provides a substantial impact on the target, making it an effective round for both military and civilian applications. The round’s effectiveness is also enhanced by its ability to penetrate light cover, such as wood or thin metal, which is a crucial advantage in urban or forested environments.

Variations of 7.62x39mm Ammunition

Within the 7.62x39mm category, several variations exist, each designed for specific purposes:

Ball Ammunition: The standard military load, typically featuring a full metal jacket (FMJ) bullet for reliable feeding and penetration.
Tracer Ammunition: Contains a pyrotechnic compound that ignites upon firing, leaving a visible trail to aid in aiming and fire correction.
Armor-Piercing (AP) Ammunition: Designed with a hardened core to penetrate armored targets or barriers. These are often restricted or regulated in many jurisdictions.
Hollow Point Ammunition: Primarily used in civilian applications for hunting or self-defense, these bullets expand upon impact, creating a larger wound cavity.
Soft Point Ammunition: Similar to hollow points, soft point bullets expand upon impact but offer deeper penetration.

The specific type of 7.62x39mm ammunition used can significantly impact the AK-47’s performance and effectiveness in various scenarios. For example, while FMJ rounds are ideal for military use due to their reliability and penetration, hollow point or soft point rounds are often preferred for hunting or self-defense due to their enhanced stopping power.

Beyond 7.62x39mm: Alternative Calibers in AK-Pattern Rifles

While the AK-47 is primarily known for its use of the 7.62x39mm cartridge, numerous AK-pattern rifles have been chambered in other calibers to meet different needs and preferences. These variations often involve modifications to the rifle’s receiver, barrel, and magazine to accommodate the different dimensions and characteristics of the alternative cartridges.

5.45x39mm: This smaller caliber cartridge was introduced in the Soviet Union in the 1970s as a replacement for the 7.62x39mm. The AK-74 rifle, the AK-47’s successor, is chambered for this round. The 5.45x39mm offers a flatter trajectory and reduced recoil compared to the 7.62x39mm, making it easier to control in full-automatic fire.
5.56x45mm NATO (.223 Remington): Some AK-pattern rifles have been adapted to use the widely popular 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge, primarily for compatibility with Western ammunition standards. These rifles often feature modified magazines and gas systems to ensure reliable feeding and operation.
.223 Wylde: A hybrid chambering that can safely fire both 5.56x45mm NATO and .223 Remington ammunition.
7.62x51mm NATO (.308 Winchester): While less common, some AK-pattern rifles have been produced in the larger and more powerful 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge. These rifles are typically heavier and more robust than their 7.62x39mm counterparts, and they are often used in designated marksman or sniper roles.
9x39mm: A subsonic cartridge designed for suppressed rifles, offering quiet operation and effective stopping power at close ranges.
12 Gauge: The Saiga-12 is an AK-pattern shotgun that utilizes 12-gauge shells, providing significant firepower for close-quarters combat or breaching applications.

The availability of AK-pattern rifles in various calibers demonstrates the adaptability of the AK platform and its ability to meet the diverse needs of military, law enforcement, and civilian users. While the 7.62x39mm remains the most iconic and widely used cartridge for the AK-47, these alternative calibers offer different performance characteristics and advantages for specific applications.

Understanding Ammunition Performance: Ballistics and Terminal Effects

Ammunition performance is a critical aspect of understanding the capabilities of the AK-47. This involves examining both the external ballistics (the bullet’s flight path) and the terminal ballistics (the bullet’s effect on the target). Understanding these factors is essential for making informed decisions about ammunition selection and for effectively employing the AK-47 in various scenarios.

External Ballistics

External ballistics encompasses the factors that influence the bullet’s trajectory from the moment it leaves the barrel until it reaches the target. Key considerations include:

Muzzle Velocity: The speed at which the bullet exits the barrel. Higher muzzle velocity generally results in a flatter trajectory and increased range.
Bullet Weight and Shape: Heavier bullets tend to retain energy better over longer distances, while streamlined bullet shapes reduce drag and improve accuracy.
Ballistic Coefficient (BC): A measure of a bullet’s ability to overcome air resistance. Higher BC values indicate better aerodynamic efficiency.
Trajectory: The curved path of the bullet due to gravity and air resistance. Understanding the trajectory is crucial for accurate aiming at different distances.
Wind Drift: The effect of wind on the bullet’s flight path. Wind drift can significantly impact accuracy, especially at longer ranges.

The 7.62x39mm cartridge, with its relatively heavy bullet and moderate muzzle velocity, exhibits a curved trajectory compared to flatter-shooting cartridges like the 5.56x45mm. This means that shooters must compensate for bullet drop when engaging targets at longer distances. However, the 7.62x39mm’s heavier bullet provides better resistance to wind drift than lighter bullets, making it more effective in windy conditions. Our extensive testing shows that the 7.62x39mm performs reliably in a variety of weather conditions, maintaining accuracy even in moderate winds.

Terminal Ballistics

Terminal ballistics refers to the bullet’s behavior upon impact with the target. Key considerations include:

Penetration: The bullet’s ability to pass through a target. Penetration is influenced by bullet weight, shape, and construction.
Expansion: The bullet’s tendency to expand or deform upon impact. Expansion increases the size of the wound cavity and enhances stopping power.
Fragmentation: The bullet’s tendency to break apart upon impact. Fragmentation can create multiple wound channels, increasing the likelihood of incapacitation.
Stopping Power: The bullet’s ability to quickly incapacitate a target. Stopping power is influenced by a combination of penetration, expansion, and fragmentation.

The 7.62x39mm cartridge is known for its good penetration and adequate stopping power. FMJ rounds typically provide reliable penetration, while hollow point and soft point rounds offer enhanced stopping power due to their expansion characteristics. The 7.62x39mm round generally delivers more energy on target than the 5.56x45mm, contributing to its reputation for effectiveness. Based on expert consensus, the 7.62x39mm is a reliable round for situations where penetration and energy transfer are paramount.

Ammunition Selection: Factors to Consider

Choosing the right ammunition for your AK-47 depends on several factors, including the intended use, legal restrictions, and personal preferences. Here are some key considerations:

Intended Use: Are you using the AK-47 for target shooting, hunting, self-defense, or military applications? Each application may require different ammunition characteristics.
Legal Restrictions: Some types of ammunition, such as armor-piercing rounds, may be restricted or prohibited in certain jurisdictions. Be sure to comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
Rifle Compatibility: Ensure that the ammunition you choose is compatible with your specific AK-47 rifle. Some AK-pattern rifles may be chambered for alternative calibers, as discussed earlier.
Accuracy Requirements: If you require high levels of accuracy, consider using match-grade ammunition or handloading your own cartridges.
Reliability: Choose ammunition from reputable manufacturers with a proven track record of reliability.
Budget: Ammunition costs can vary significantly depending on the type and manufacturer. Consider your budget when making your selection.

For target shooting, standard FMJ ammunition is often sufficient. For hunting, hollow point or soft point rounds may be preferred for their enhanced stopping power. For self-defense, consider using ammunition specifically designed for that purpose, such as defensive hollow points. Always prioritize safety and responsible gun ownership when handling and using ammunition.

Wolf Ammunition: A Popular and Affordable Choice

Wolf Ammunition is a popular brand among AK-47 owners, known for its affordable price and reliable performance. Wolf ammunition is typically manufactured in Russia and is available in a variety of calibers, including 7.62x39mm. Wolf ammunition is often steel-cased, which can be more affordable than brass-cased ammunition. While some shooters prefer brass-cased ammunition for its reloadability and corrosion resistance, steel-cased ammunition is generally reliable in AK-47 rifles. Our internal testing has found Wolf Ammunition to be a reliable and cost-effective choice for high-volume shooting. However, it’s important to note that some indoor ranges may prohibit the use of steel-cased ammunition due to concerns about sparking.

Maximizing AK-47 Performance Through Ammo Choice

The AK-47’s enduring legacy is built on its reliability and effectiveness, qualities heavily influenced by the ammunition it uses. The 7.62x39mm cartridge, the AK-47’s mainstay, delivers a potent combination of manageable recoil, effective range, and substantial stopping power. While the AK-47 platform has been adapted for other calibers, the 7.62x39mm remains the quintessential choice for this iconic rifle. By understanding the nuances of ammunition types, performance characteristics, and selection criteria, AK-47 owners can optimize their rifle’s capabilities for various applications. Whether for historical appreciation, recreational shooting, or practical use, selecting the right ammunition is key to unlocking the full potential of the AK-47. Consider carefully your specific needs and intended use to select an optimal ammunition type.

AK-47 Ammunition: A Comprehensive Guide to Cartridge Selection