Did you know that the 7.62x39mm was developed in the late 1940s?

The cartridge was designed to be used in the SKS and (Avtomát Kaláshnikova Model 1947) AK-47 rifles. It quickly became popular around the world. Over time, different versions of the cartridge were developed to meet the needs of specific applications.

For an in-depth overview of the 7.62x39mm and a breakdown of how it’s loaded, check out our comprehensive guide. 

7.62x39mm Specifications

The 7.62x39mm cartridge is a type of ammunition that was originally designed by the Soviet Union. Here are some specifications for this cartridge:

• Bore Diameter: 0.300 inches (7.62 mm)
• Groove Diameter: 0.312 inches (7.92 mm)
• Overall Length: 2.20 inches (55.89 mm)
• Case Length: 1.524 inches (38.7 mm)
• Shoulder Angle: 17 degrees
• Rifling Twist: 1:9.45 inches (240 mm)
• C.I.P. Max. Pressure: 355 MPa (51,488 psi)
• SAAMI Max. Average Pressure: 45,000 psi
• Common Bullet Weight: 8 grams (122 to 123 grains)
• Subsonic Bullet Weight: 12.5 grams (193 grains)
• Tracer Bullet Weight: 7.5 grams (117 grains)

Where is the 7.62×39 Cartridge Used?

The 7.62×39 cartridge is primarily used in military and sporting rifles for hunting, target shooting, and self-defense. It is also popular among civilian shooters who enjoy shooting surplus military rifles and collecting ammunition.

Apart from its use in the SKS and AK-47 firearm, the 7.62×39 cartridge is used in a variety of other rifles and carbines, including the Ruger Mini-30, the CZ 527, and the SIG Sauer MCX.

Additionally, the 7.62×39 cartridge is used by military and law enforcement agencies in various countries, including Russia, China, and other countries in Eastern Europe and Asia.

Benefits of the 7.62×39

Looking to get a 7.62×39 round? It is paramount to understand how it works before you invest your time and money. Here are some benefits that make it a popular choice for firearms users:

Cost-Effectiveness

Due to its widespread usage, the 7.62×39 cartridge is generally quite affordable. The cartridge is produced by many different ammunition manufacturers worldwide, making it readily available in many different countries.

With its widespread use and constant supply, the price of the ammunition is relatively low. This cost-effectiveness can be especially important if you use your firearms often.

Good Stopping Power

The cartridge’s bullet weight of around 123 grains provides good stopping power. This makes it well-suited for use in hunting medium-sized game, as well as for self-defense and combat situations.

What’s more, the cartridge’s high velocity and relatively large bullet diameter also contribute to its optimal stopping power.

Short-to-Medium Range Accuracy

With its bullet drop and velocity being best suited for ranges up to around 300 meters, the 7.62×39 cartridge is most effective at short-to-medium ranges.

The bullet’s trajectory has a moderate curve. As a result, it will drop more quickly at longer ranges than other cartridges with flatter trajectories. However, the 7.62×39 cartridge’s moderate curve can still be accurate and effective within its optimal range.

Additionally, the cartridge’s moderate recoil can make it more comfortable to shoot than other cartridges with more significant recoil. This makes it suitable if you want to take multiple shots or want to shoot for an extended period.

Reliability

If you need a cartridge that can perform consistently, the 7.62x39mm brass is ideal. A lot of firearm users praise the 7.62×39 cartridge for its ability to function in adverse conditions. What’s more, it can also work well for firearms that aren’t perfectly maintained.

The cartridge’s design is relatively simple, with a tapered case that is easy to extract. It also has a bullet that’s often copper or bimetal, which can help to reduce fouling and improve feeding.

Moreover, the cartridge’s rimless design allows for reliable feeding in several firearms. Its relatively low operating pressure can help to reduce wear and tear on the firearm over time.

Versatility

You can use the 7.62×39 cartridge in a variety of firearms. While the AK-47 and SKS are perhaps the most famous firearms that use this cartridge, you can also use it in other rifles and carbines, like the Ruger Mini-30, CZ 527 rifle, and more.

The versatility of the cartridge makes it a popular choice for hunters, sport shooters, and military or law enforcement applications.

Steps of Reloading the 7.62x39mm

If you enjoy shooting, reloading the 7.62x39mm cartridge can be a rewarding experience. But safety should always come first. Here is a step-by-step guide to the process:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Reload your firearm on a stable, preferably wooden, workbench. Start by collecting the necessary supplies for reloading the cartridge. This includes:

• 7.62x39mm brass casings
• Small pistol primers (such as CCI 500 or Winchester WSP)
• Powder (such as H335, IMR 4064, or Varget)
• Bullets (such as FMJ or soft point)
• Reloading press (such as a Lee or RCBS)
• Dies (specific to 7.62x39mm)
• Powder scale
• Powder funnel
• Calipers

You will also need a reloading manual to consult for load information and safety guidelines. Remember to have a safe and clean workspace. Also, keep your eyes and ears protected when reloading.

Step 2: Clean and Inspect Your Brass Casings

Next, clean your brass casings. Dirty or corroded casings can cause issues with feeding and chambering. It can also potentially damage your firearm.

You can use an ultrasonic cleaner or a brass tumbler to clean the casings. Once your casings are clean, inspect them for any signs of damage, such as cracks or splits. Discard the damaged casings as they may not be safe to use.

Don’t forget to check the primer pockets to ensure they are clean and clear of debris.

Step 3: Resize Your Casings

When a fired casing is removed from the chamber, it may have expanded to a slightly larger size than its original dimensions. Resizing the casing with a die restores it to its original dimensions, allowing it to chamber correctly in your firearm. Use your reloading press and the resizing die to resize your casings to their original dimensions.

But before you resize, lubricate the casings to prevent damage to the brass and the resizing die. You can use a case lube such as a spray or wax-based lubricant. It will ensure that the casings move smoothly through the resizing die.

Once you’re done lubricating, you can go on and resize the casings. Make sure to follow the instructions for your specific resizing die and press. It will help you resize the casings correctly.

After resizing, inspect each casing again to ensure that there are no signs of damage or deformities.

Step 4: Prime Your Casings

To prime your casings, ensure your primer tool is set up for small pistol primers. Then, place your resized 7.62x39mm casing onto the reloading press.

Use the primer tool to insert a small pistol primer into the primer pocket of the casing. Make sure the primer is seated flush with the base of the casing. Repeat this process for each casing.

Step 5: Measure Your Powder

Measuring the appropriate amount of powder for your load is a critical step in reloading the 7.62x39mm. Consult a reloading manual to determine the recommended powder charge for your specific bullet and powder combination.

Set up your powder scale according to the manufacturer’s instructions and calibrate it using the included weights. Use it to measure the recommended powder charge.

Make sure to be precise when measuring powder. This is because small variations can significantly affect the performance and safety of your reloads.

Step 6: Charge Your Casings

Once you’ve measured out the powder charge, use a powder funnel to carefully pour the powder into each casing. Tap the side of the casing gently to settle the powder and prevent any air pockets. Be sure to double-check the amount of powder in each casing to ensure consistency.

Step 7: Seat Your Bullets

To seat your bullets, ensure your seating die is set up correctly for your bullet type and weight. Place a casing on the reloading press and position the bullet over the casing mouth. Use the press to gently push the bullet into the casing until it is seated to the proper depth.

Use calipers to measure the overall length of each cartridge, including the bullet and casing. Make sure the length matches the recommended specifications for your particular bullet and cartridge. It will help you ensure the accuracy and safety of your reloads.

Step 8: Crimp Your Cartridges

Crimping your 7.62x39mm cartridges is optional. If you prefer to crimp your cartridges, use the crimping die to apply a crimp to the case mouth. This can help prevent the bullet from shifting or moving during recoil or other forces as it can cause accuracy issues or even safety concerns.

Step 9: Inspect Your Reloaded Cartridges

Once you’re done reloading your casings, inspect each cartridge to make sure that it meets the recommended specifications for your particular load. Also, check for signs of damage or overpressure.

Buy Our High-Quality 7.62x39mm Cartridges

Reloading your own 7.62x39mm cartridges is not only cost-effective but also allows you to tailor your cartridges to your specific needs. At Diamond K Brass, we offer premium 7.62x39mm reloading brass to take your shooting experiences to the next level.

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