Best 7.62x39mm Ammo

The 7.62x39mm cartridge stands as one of the most influential military rifle rounds in history. Developed by the Soviet Union in 1943-1944, it was designed as an intermediate cartridge to bridge the gap between full-power rifle rounds and pistol cartridges. The round gained worldwide recognition as the standard chambering for the legendary AK-47 assault rifle and the SKS carbine, eventually becoming one of the most widely produced ammunition types on the planet with billions of rounds manufactured across dozens of countries.

This cartridge excels as an affordable, reliable option for recreational shooting, home defense, and hunting medium-sized game at moderate ranges. The 7.62x39mm typically fires a .312 caliber bullet weighing 120-125 grains at velocities around 2,350 fps, generating approximately 1,500 ft-lbs of muzzle energy. While ballistically inferior to the .308 Winchester or even the .223 Remington at extended ranges, the 7.62x39mm delivers devastating terminal performance inside 200 yards, making it highly effective for hunting deer, hogs, and similar game in brushy or wooded environments.

Shooters choose the 7.62x39mm for its unmatched combination of affordability, reliability, and adequate power. The cartridge's moderate recoil makes it accessible to shooters of all experience levels, while the robust design of AK-pattern rifles ensures function in adverse conditions. With steel-cased ammunition widely available at budget-friendly prices, the 7.62x39mm remains the go-to choice for high-volume practice, preparedness-minded shooters, and hunters who value a hard-hitting round that won't break the bank.