What Is the Bullet Size of an AK-47 and How Does It Compare?
The AK-47 is one of the most iconic firearms in the world, known for its durability, reliability, and widespread use. One of the key factors that define its performance is the bullet size it uses. But how does it compare to other popular calibers? Let’s break it down!
What Is a Bullet?
A bullet is the projectile fired from a firearm. It is part of a cartridge, which includes the bullet, casing, gunpowder, and primer. Bullet sizes vary depending on the firearm's purpose—whether for hunting, self-defense, or military use.
What Is the Bullet Size of an AK-47?
The standard AK-47 bullet size is 7.62x39mm. This means:
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7.62mm is the bullet's diameter.
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39mm refers to the length of the cartridge casing.
The 7.62x39mm round is known for its stopping power and penetration, making it effective in military and civilian applications.
How Does the AK-47 Bullet Compare to Other Calibers?
1. Smaller Calibers (.22 LR, .380 ACP, 9mm Luger, .38 Special, .357 Magnum)
These calibers are commonly used for handguns and small rifles. They have less power and range than the AK-47’s 7.62x39mm.
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.22 LR (Long Rifle) – Small and lightweight, used for target shooting.
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.380 ACP – Compact, good for self-defense but weaker than 9mm.
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9mm Luger – A popular handgun round with good balance between power and recoil.
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.38 Special & .357 Magnum – Common revolver rounds; .357 is more powerful.
2. Medium Calibers (.40 S&W, .45 ACP, .223 Remington, 7.62x39mm)
These bullets are more powerful and versatile.
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.40 S&W – More stopping power than 9mm but more recoil.
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.45 ACP – Used in 1911 pistols, known for its stopping power.
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.223 Remington – The AR-15 bullet size, smaller than AK-47’s 7.62x39mm, but has higher velocity.
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7.62x39mm (AK-47 bullet size) – Powerful, penetrates barriers, widely used worldwide.
3. Larger and High-Powered Calibers (.308 Winchester, .50 BMG)
These rounds are used for hunting, sniping, and military purposes.
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.308 Winchester – A powerful hunting and sniper round.
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.50 BMG – Biggest bullet on this list, used in heavy machine guns and long-range sniping.
Bullet Caliber Chart for Quick Comparison
Bullet Type | Diameter (mm/inches) | Common Use |
---|---|---|
.22 LR | 5.7mm / .22" | Target shooting, small game |
9mm Luger | 9mm / .355" | Handguns, self-defense |
.40 S&W | 10mm / .40" | Law enforcement, self-defense |
.45 ACP | 11.5mm / .45" | Military, self-defense |
.223 Remington | 5.56mm / .223" | AR-15 rifles, varmint hunting |
7.62x39mm | 7.62mm / .30" | AK-47, military, hunting |
.308 Winchester | 7.8mm / .308" | Hunting, long-range shooting |
.50 BMG | 12.7mm / .50" | Heavy machine guns, sniping |
Common Bullet Shapes
Bullets come in different shapes, which affect their accuracy, penetration, and effectiveness. Some common types include:
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Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) – Used in military and target shooting.
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Hollow Point (HP) – Expands upon impact, ideal for self-defense.
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Soft Point (SP) – Expands slower than HP, used for hunting.
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Ballistic Tip – A mix of FMJ and HP, great for long-range shooting.
Conclusion
The AK-47 bullet size of 7.62x39mm offers good stopping power and penetration, making it a popular choice for military and civilian use. When compared to other calibers, it is more powerful than handgun rounds but not as long-range as .308 Winchester or .50 BMG.
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