7.62 x 39 (.308) Russ.

The 7.62 x 39mm caliber, sometimes called .308 Russian, has a storied history rooted in the development of Soviet military firearms. First introduced in 1943, this intermediate cartridge was engineered for the legendary AK-47, as well as the SKS and RPD light machine gun, during World War II’s later years. Born from the Soviet Union's need for a versatile and reliable round that bridged the gap between full-power rifle cartridges and pistol ammunition, the 7.62 x 39mm quickly became famous for its widespread military adoption across Eastern Bloc nations and conflict zones worldwide. Its blend of manageable recoil, sufficient power, and simple manufacturing quickly found favor, solidifying its legacy in both military and civilian markets.

The 7.62 x 39mm round enjoys broad applications today beyond its original military use. Civilian shooters appreciate the round’s affordability, availability, and reliable performance. It has become a top choice for semi-automatic sporting rifles and carbines like the AK-pattern rifles, Ruger Mini-30, and newer modern sporting rifles. For reloaders, its consistent demand means a steady supply of brass and a large selection of both factory and surplus projectiles. The cartridge’s ballistics, characterized by a moderate velocity and a relatively heavy projectile, make it a solid option for medium-range shooting, ranch defense, and plinking. Its reputation for function in harsh conditions with minimal maintenance stems from the original Soviet design philosophy, making this caliber especially appealing to shooters who value rugged reliability.

The 7.62 x 39mm cartridge is a popular hunting choice in North America and globally, given the right conditions and local regulations. Its effective range, typically cited as up to 200 yards for ethical shots, makes it suitable for medium-sized game such as deer, wild boar, and feral hogs. While some may underestimate its performance, modern expanding bullet designs have enhanced its game-dropping capabilities. For reloaders interested in predators or even larger vermin, lighter bullet weights offer flatter trajectories for coyotes and similar targets. Versatility is further boosted by expanding options in bullet types catering to everything from defense to target shooting.

For those who reload, the 7.62 x 39mm offers typical bullet diameters of .310” to .312”, though .308” bullets are occasionally found and sometimes used in custom barrels. Standard bullet weights range from 122 grains to 125 grains for most factory loads, while reloading components are available from 108 grains to 154 grains. The cartridge usually operates at moderate pressures—around 45,000 psi—allowing for long case life and generally easy resizing. Its relatively straight case with a distinct shoulder demands careful die adjustment to prevent feeding issues. Velocity is generally 2,200–2,400 fps from a carbine-length barrel, resulting in manageable recoil and satisfactory terminal performance within its effective range. For reloaders devoted to accuracy, attention to consistent component quality and seating depth can yield impressive results from both surplus rifles and modern sporting arms alike. The 7.62 x 39mm's robust design, world-wide support, and proven track record make it a rewarding choice for reloaders who prize versatility and value.