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AK-47 Bullet Specifications: A Comprehensive Guide

The AK-47, or Avtomat Kalashnikova model 1947, is one of the most widely recognized and used firearms in the world. Its reliability, simplicity, and relatively low cost have made it a staple for military forces, paramilitary groups, and civilian users across the globe. At the heart of its effectiveness lies the AK-47 bullet, specifically the 7.62x39mm round. Understanding the AK-47 bullet specifications is crucial for anyone interested in firearms, military history, or ballistics. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the AK-47 bullet specifications, covering its history, design, performance, and variations.

The History of the 7.62x39mm Round

The 7.62x39mm cartridge was developed in the Soviet Union during World War II. The Soviet military recognized the need for an intermediate cartridge that offered a balance between the power of rifle rounds and the controllability of pistol rounds. Prior to the AK-47 bullet, the standard Soviet rifle cartridge was the 7.62x54mmR, a full-power rifle round. While powerful, it was less suitable for close-quarters combat and automatic fire. The 7.62x39mm round was designed to address these limitations.

Work on the 7.62x39mm cartridge began in 1943, and it was quickly adopted by the Soviet military. It was initially used in the SKS carbine before becoming the standard cartridge for the AK-47. The adoption of the AK-47 bullet marked a significant shift in military small arms design, influencing the development of intermediate cartridges worldwide. [See also: History of the AK-47 Rifle]

Detailed AK-47 Bullet Specifications

The 7.62x39mm round is a bottlenecked, rimless cartridge. Here are the key AK-47 bullet specifications:

Bullet Diameter: 7.92 mm (0.312 in)
Neck Diameter: 8.55 mm (0.337 in)
Base Diameter: 11.2 mm (0.441 in)
Rim Diameter: 11.3 mm (0.445 in)
Case Length: 38.6 mm (1.52 in)
Overall Length: 56 mm (2.20 in)
Bullet Weight: Typically ranges from 122 to 125 grains (7.9 to 8.1 grams)
Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 715 m/s (2,350 ft/s)
Muzzle Energy: Approximately 2,010 J (1,480 ft⋅lbf)

These AK-47 bullet specifications contribute to the round’s effectiveness in a variety of combat situations. The bullet’s weight and velocity provide a good balance of range, accuracy, and stopping power.

Design and Construction

The 7.62x39mm round typically consists of a copper-washed or lacquer-coated steel case, a lead core bullet, and a steel jacket. The steel case is used for cost-effectiveness and reliability in adverse conditions. The copper or lacquer coating helps to prevent corrosion and ensures smooth feeding in the AK-47’s action.

The bullet itself is typically a full metal jacket (FMJ) design, meaning that the lead core is completely encased in a steel jacket. This design enhances penetration and reduces the risk of bullet deformation upon impact. Some variations of the AK-47 bullet may use different jacket materials or incorporate a small air pocket in the tip to enhance fragmentation upon impact.

Performance and Ballistics

The 7.62x39mm round offers a good balance of ballistic performance and controllability. Its effective range is typically around 300 to 400 meters, making it well-suited for close to medium-range engagements. The AK-47 bullet‘s trajectory is relatively flat out to 200 meters, but it begins to drop significantly beyond that range. [See also: Ballistics of Common Rifle Cartridges]

The stopping power of the 7.62x39mm round is considered to be adequate for most combat situations. While it may not have the same level of energy as larger rifle rounds, its combination of velocity and bullet weight provides sufficient kinetic energy to incapacitate targets. The AK-47 bullet is known for its ability to penetrate light cover, such as wood, sheet metal, and foliage.

Variations of the AK-47 Bullet

Over the years, numerous variations of the 7.62x39mm round have been developed. These variations may include different bullet weights, jacket materials, and core compositions. Some of the most common variations include:

M43: The original Soviet 7.62x39mm round.
M67: A Yugoslavian variant with a modified bullet design for improved performance.
Armor-Piercing (AP): Designed to penetrate armored targets. These rounds typically have a hardened steel core.
Tracer: Used to visually indicate the bullet’s trajectory. These rounds contain a pyrotechnic compound that burns brightly in flight.
Hollow Point: Designed to expand upon impact, increasing stopping power.

Each of these variations offers unique characteristics that may be better suited for specific applications. Understanding the differences between these variations is essential for selecting the appropriate AK-47 bullet for a given task.

The AK-47 Bullet in Modern Warfare

Despite its age, the 7.62x39mm round remains a relevant and widely used cartridge in modern warfare. The AK-47 and its variants continue to be favored by many military forces and paramilitary groups due to their reliability and affordability. The AK-47 bullet is readily available in many parts of the world, making it a practical choice for those who need a dependable and effective cartridge.

While newer cartridges, such as the 5.56x45mm NATO round and the 5.45x39mm Soviet round, offer certain advantages in terms of weight and recoil, the 7.62x39mm round still provides a significant level of stopping power and penetration. In urban combat environments, where engagements often occur at close range, the AK-47 bullet can be particularly effective.

Civilian Use of the AK-47 Bullet

In many countries, civilian ownership of AK-47 rifles and the 7.62x39mm round is permitted, subject to certain regulations. The AK-47 bullet is often used for hunting, target shooting, and self-defense. Its relatively low cost and availability make it an attractive option for many civilian shooters.

However, the use of the AK-47 bullet in civilian settings is not without controversy. Its high penetration and potential for collateral damage have raised concerns among some policymakers and advocacy groups. As a result, some jurisdictions have placed restrictions on the sale and ownership of AK-47 rifles and the 7.62x39mm round. [See also: Gun Control Laws Around the World]

The Future of the AK-47 Bullet

While the AK-47 and its associated AK-47 bullet have been in service for over seven decades, they are likely to remain a significant part of the global firearms landscape for many years to come. The ongoing development of new bullet designs and cartridge variations will continue to enhance the performance and versatility of the 7.62x39mm round.

As military and civilian users continue to seek reliable and effective small arms solutions, the AK-47 bullet will undoubtedly maintain its place as one of the most widely used and recognized cartridges in the world. Understanding the AK-47 bullet specifications, its history, and its applications is essential for anyone interested in firearms, military history, or ballistics.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the AK-47 bullet specifications reveal a cartridge designed for reliability, effectiveness, and mass production. The 7.62x39mm round has proven its worth in countless conflicts and remains a relevant choice for military, paramilitary, and civilian users alike. Its enduring legacy is a testament to the ingenuity of its designers and the enduring need for a versatile and dependable intermediate cartridge. The AK-47 bullet continues to be a significant force in the world of firearms.