If you’re looking for a rifle that’s versatile, powerful, and relatively affordable to shoot, the 7.62×39 AR-15 may be just what you’re looking for. This rifle is a popular choice among hunters, sport shooters, and preppers, thanks to its compatibility with the widely available and affordable 7.62×39 ammunition used by the AK-47. However, like any firearm, the 7.62×39 AR-15 does have some issues and challenges that you need to be aware of before you invest in one. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most common 7.62×39 AR problems, as well as some related topics such as cartridge compatibility, accuracy, and reliability.
Is the 7.62×39 AR Worth It?
The first question you might be asking yourself is whether the 7.62×39 AR is even worth considering, given its reputational issues. While there are definitely some drawbacks to this rifle, there are also some advantages that make it attractive to many shooters.
First and foremost, the 7.62×39 round is a potent and versatile cartridge that can be used for hunting, self-defense, and target shooting. It’s also a lot less expensive than many other popular rifle calibers, which makes it more accessible to shooters on a budget.
One of the primary benefits of the AR-15 platform is how modular it is. You can customize an AR-15 to meet your specific needs and preferences, which makes it highly versatile and adaptable. This means that despite the issues we’ll discuss in this post, the 7.62×39 AR can be a highly effective rifle if you configure it properly.
So, while there are definitely some challenges associated with the 7.62×39 AR, it’s not necessarily a bad choice. If you understand the limitations and know how to work around them, you can end up with a versatile and potent rifle that won’t break the bank.
Best 7.62×39 AR BCG
The Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) is one of the most important components of any AR-15, and the 7.62×39 AR is no exception. The BCG is responsible for feeding, firing, and ejecting rounds, so it’s critical that you choose a high-quality BCG that’s up to the task.
One of the top choices for a 7.62×39 AR BCG is the Toolcraft 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group. This BCG is made from high-quality materials and features a chrome-lined carrier and gas key for added durability and corrosion resistance. It also includes a properly staked gas key and a magnetic particle inspected (MPI) bolt for maximum reliability.
Other excellent options include the Aero Precision 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group and the Palmetto State Armory 7.62×39 Bolt Carrier Group. All three of these products are well-regarded by shooters and offer excellent reliability and performance.
7.62×39 Ammo: What Does It Fit?
One of the challenges of the 7.62×39 cartridge is that it can be difficult to find the right ammunition for your rifle. This is because the cartridge was originally designed for the AK-47 rifle, which has a different chamber and magazine design than the AR-15. However, with the right components, you can use 7.62×39 ammunition in an AR-15.
To use 7.62×39 ammo in an AR-15, you’ll need a 7.62×39 bolt and barrel. These components are specifically designed to handle the dimensions of the 7.62×39 cartridge, which is slightly larger in diameter than the .223/5.56 cartridges typically used in an AR-15.
It’s also important to note that not all 7.62×39 ammunition is created equal. Some brands and types of ammo may not work well in an AR-15, while others may be highly reliable. It’s a good idea to experiment with different brands and loads until you find a combination that works well with your rifle.
Is 7.62×39 Good in an AR-15?
This is a controversial question in the firearms community, and opinions vary widely. Some shooters swear by the 7.62×39 AR-15, while others find it unreliable or underpowered. Ultimately, the answer to this question depends on your specific needs and preferences.
The main advantage of the 7.62×39 cartridge in an AR-15 is that it offers more stopping power than the .223/5.56 cartridges typically used in an AR-15. This makes it better suited for hunting and self-defense applications, where you may need to take down larger game or stop an attacker quickly.
However, the 7.62×39 cartridge also has some disadvantages. It can be less accurate and have more recoil than .223/5.56, which can make it a less appealing choice for target shooting or long-range engagements. Additionally, 7.62×39 ammunition can be harder to find and more expensive than .223/5.56, which can offset some of the cost savings of the 7.62×39 AR-15.
Ultimately, whether or not the 7.62×39 AR-15 is a good choice for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a highly adaptable rifle that can be used for multiple applications, and you value the stopping power of the 7.62×39 cartridge, it may be a good choice for you.
7.62×39 FDE Upper
If you’re building a 7.62×39 AR-15 from scratch, you may be wondering what upper receiver to choose. One popular option is the 7.62×39 Flat Dark Earth (FDE) upper receiver, which offers a sleek and tactical appearance.
There are multiple manufacturers that offer 7.62×39 FDE upper receivers, including Aero Precision, Anderson Manufacturing, and Spinta Precision. These upper receivers are typically machined from high-quality aluminum and come with a variety of features, including forward assist, ejection port cover, and M-LOK or Picatinny rail systems for accessories.
While the FDE upper receiver won’t affect the performance of your rifle, it can be an attractive and functional addition to your build. It’s also worth noting that FDE is a popular color choice among military and law enforcement personnel, so if you’re a fan of the tactical look, the 7.62×39 FDE upper may be just what you’re looking for.
What is the Effective Killing Range of 7.62×39?
Another question you may be wondering is how far the 7.62×39 cartridge can effectively kill a target. The answer to this question varies depending on a variety of factors, including the muzzle velocity of the round, the accuracy of your rifle, and the size and placement of the target.
In general, the 7.62×39 cartridge is effective out to a range of 300 yards or less. Beyond that distance, the round may begin to lose its accuracy and stopping power, making it less effective for hunting or self-defense applications.
It’s worth noting, however, that every shooter and every rifle is different. Some shooters may be able to achieve accurate shots at longer distances, while others may struggle even at shorter ranges. Ultimately, the best way to determine the effective killing range of your rifle is to spend time practicing at different distances and with different loads.
Best 7.62×39 AR Barrel
The barrel is one of the most critical components of a rifle, and the 7.62×39 AR-15 is no exception. A high-quality barrel can help you achieve greater accuracy, improved reliability, and better overall performance.
One of the top choices for a 7.62×39 AR barrel is the Faxon Firearms 16″ GUNNER Profile Barrel. This barrel is made from high-quality materials and features a nitride finish for added durability and corrosion resistance. It also includes a threaded muzzle for easy attachment of a suppressor or other muzzle device.
Other excellent options include the Ballistic Advantage Modern Series 16″ 7.62×39 Barrel and the Brownells 7.62×39 Barrel. Both of these barrels are well-regarded by shooters and offer excellent accuracy and reliability.
7.62×39 AR Feed Issues
One of the most common problems that shooters experience with the 7.62×39 AR-15 is feeding issues. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including magazine design, bolt carrier group problems, and ammunition choice.
To avoid feed issues, it’s important to choose high-quality magazines that are designed specifically for the 7.62×39 cartridge. The steel AK-47 magazines that are commonly used with this cartridge may not work well with an AR-15, so it’s worth investing in some magazines that are designed for your rifle.
Another important consideration is the bolt carrier group. As we discussed above, it’s critical to choose a high-quality BCG that’s up to the task of working with the 7.62×39 cartridge. The BCG needs to be properly staked and made from high-quality materials to ensure reliable feeding and ejection.
Finally, it’s worth experimenting with different brands and types of ammunition to find a load that works well with your rifle. Some brands of 7.62×39 ammo may be more prone to feeding issues than others, so it’s worth doing some research and testing to find the right combination of components.
7.62×39 AR Lower
The lower receiver is another critical component of an AR-15, and the 7.62×39 AR is no exception. The lower receiver houses the rifle’s trigger, magazine well, and safety selector, among other components.
There are many high-quality 7.62×39 AR lower receivers on the market, including offerings from Aero Precision, Palmetto State Armory, and Anderson Manufacturing. These lower receivers are typically made from high-quality aluminum and feature a variety of features, including ambidextrous controls, integrated trigger guards, and 7075-T6 billet aluminum construction.
When selecting a lower receiver, it’s important to choose one that’s compatible with the other components of your rifle, including the upper receiver, BCG, and barrel. It’s also important to ensure that the lower receiver is properly serialized and registered in accordance with local and federal laws.
Are 7.62 ARs Reliable?
Another common question that shooters have about the 7.62×39 AR-15 is whether they’re reliable. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, there are definitely some factors that can affect the reliability of these rifles.
One of the main factors that can affect the reliability of a 7.62×39 AR is the quality of the components. If you skimp on key components like the BCG, barrel, and lower receiver, you’re likely to experience more reliability issues than if you invest in high-quality components.
Another important factor is how well you maintain your rifle. Like any firearm, the 7.62×39 AR needs to be cleaned and lubricated regularly to ensure that it functions properly. Neglecting basic maintenance tasks can lead to a host of issues, including reliability problems.
Ultimately, the reliability of a 7.62×39 AR comes down to a combination of factors, including the quality of the components, how well it’s maintained, and how it’s configured. If you take the time to choose high-quality components and maintain your rifle properly, you’re likely to experience reliable performance.
7.62×39 Any Good?
If you’re still on the fence about the 7.62×39 AR-15, you may be wondering whether this cartridge is any good compared to other rifle cartridges on the market. While it’s far from perfect, the 7.62×39 cartridge does offer some significant benefits that make it worth considering.
One of the primary advantages of the 7.62×39 cartridge is its affordability. This cartridge is much less expensive than many other popular rifle cartridges, which makes it more accessible to shooters on a budget.
The 7.62×39 cartridge also offers more stopping power than the .223/5.56 cartridges typically used in AR-15s. This makes it better suited for hunting and self-defense applications, where you may need to take down larger game or stop an attacker quickly.
However, the 7.62×39 cartridge also has some disadvantages, including reduced accuracy and greater recoil compared to .223/5.56. It may also be harder to find and more expensive than .223/5.56 cartridges, depending on where you live.
Ultimately, whether or not the 7.62×39 cartridge is any good depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for an affordable, powerful cartridge that’s widely available, it may be a good choice for you.
Best 7.62×39 Rifle
Finally, if you’re interested in a 7.62×39 rifle but aren’t sure where to start, you may be wondering what the best option is. The truth is that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best rifle for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.
That said, some of the top 7.62×39 rifles on the market include the Ruger Mini-30, the AK-47 platform, and the AR-15 platform. Each rifle has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s worth doing some research and testing to find the right one for you.
When selecting a 7.62×39 rifle, it’s important to consider factors like reliability, accuracy, and compatibility with different components and ammunition. You should also take into account your own shooting preferences and needs, in terms of things like caliber, range, and intended use.
How Accurate Is 7.62×39 AK?
If you’re considering an AK-47 in 7.62×39, you may be wondering how accurate this rifle can be. While the AK-47 platform is not typically known for its precision, it is possible to achieve good accuracy with the right components and shooting techniques.
To improve accuracy with an AK-47, you may want to invest in a high-quality barrel and trigger, as well as a precision optic. You should also experiment with different types of ammunition to find a load that works well with your rifle.
Ultimately, the accuracy of an AK-47 in 7.62×39 comes down to a combination of factors, including the quality of the components, how well it’s maintained, and how it’s configured. With some effort and the right components, you can achieve reasonable accuracy with this rifle.
Conclusion
The 7.62×39 AR-15 is a versatile and potent rifle, but it does come with some challenges that you need to be aware of before you invest in one. By understanding these issues and knowing how to work around them, you can end up with a highly effective rifle that meets your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re a hunter, sport shooter, or prepper, the 7.62×39 AR-15 may be just what you’re looking for.