What does the 39 mean in 7.62 x39?

Understanding the 7.62×39: What the 39 Means

When we see a cartridge designated as 7.62×39, we naturally wonder what the "39" part means. It’s a common question that can be puzzling to even the most seasoned shooter or firearms enthusiast. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of rifle cartridges and explore what the "39" stands for in 7.62×39.

History of the 7.62×39

Before we dive into the details, let’s briefly touch on the history of the 7.62×39 cartridge. Developed in the Soviet Union during the 1940s, the 7.62×39 was created to replace the 7.62x54r cartridge used in the Mosin-Nagant rifles. The new cartridge was designed to be more reliable and easier to produce, while still offering a reasonable amount of penetration and kinetic energy.

What the 39 Means

Now that we’ve covered a brief history of the 7.62×39, let’s get down to business and answer the question: what does the 39 mean in 7.62×39?

The 7.62

The first part of the designation, 7.62, refers to the caliber or diameter of the cartridge’s projectile. In this case, the 7.62mm caliber is a metric measurement, equivalent to 0.308 inches in diameter. This is larger than the 5.56mm caliber commonly used in NATO rifles.

The x

The "x" in the cartridge designation refers to the direction and angle of the case (the brass or plastic holder of the cartridge) as compared to the axis of the bullet. In other words, the "x" indicates the orientation of the case in relation to the bullet.

The 39

The 39 in 7.62×39 refers to the length of the case, measured in millimeters. In this case, the case is 39mm long. This means that the cartridge has a slightly shorter overall length compared to other cartridges of the same caliber.

Specifications and Characteristics

Here’s a summary of the 7.62×39’s specifications and characteristics:

• Caliber: 7.62mm
• Case length: 39mm
• Cartridge length: 51mm
• Bullet weight: 8-14g (124-197gr)
• Muzzle velocity: 700-780m/s (2,300-2,560fps)
• Effective range: 400-800m (437-874 yards)

In conclusion

In conclusion, the 39 in 7.62×39 refers to the length of the cartridge case, measured in millimeters. This specification helps to differentiate the 7.62×39 from other cartridges of similar caliber, such as the 7.62x54r or the.308 Winchester. Understanding what the 39 means is crucial for anyone interested in learning more about rifle cartridges and their specifications.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of the 7.62×39 cartridge:

Advantages:

• • • High kinetic energy: The 7.62×39 has a relatively high kinetic energy due to its larger caliber and bullet weight, making it suitable for use in military and law enforcement applications.
• Reliability: The cartridge is known for its reliability and durability, with minimal jamming issues or extraction problems.
• • • Availability: Ammunition and firearms chambered in 7.62×39 are widely available, making it a popular choice for civilian shooters and militaries.

Disadvantages:

• • Less accurate: The 7.62×39 has a slightly lower level of accuracy compared to the 5.56mm, due to its longer overall length and heavier bullet.
• Less penetration: While the 7.62×39 has higher kinetic energy, its relatively lightweight bullet can result in less penetration compared to the 5.56mm or other heavier calibers.

Comparison with other Cartridges

Here’s a comparison of the 7.62×39 with other popular rifle cartridges:

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 39 in 7.62×39 refers to the length of the cartridge case, measured in millimeters. Understanding the specifications and characteristics of the 7.62×39, including its advantages and disadvantages, can help shooters and enthusiasts make informed decisions about choosing the right cartridge for their needs.