.223 or something else?

I was doing some searching today, and came across some people saying that the 7.62x39 round was comparable to the .223 in usage, obviously not dimensions. Is this true, and if so would anyone suggest it over the .223? I'd probably get an SKS, not an AK.
 
Props on the quote from JSM...

anyways


No, 7.62x39 is not like 223 at all other than both being centerfire calibers used in military assault rifles.

SKS rifles are fun if you can get one less than $250 in good condition. I suggest the Yugoslavian versions. AK-47 variants are fun too but you want to spend at least $500 and get a decent built one like Arsenal (best price/performance) or something like an Interarms from AtlanticArms. Century WASR ones are alright for $400. They'll work longer than you will most the time and if you buy from Atlantic you have good service if you get a bad one.


Check out Wikipedia for differences and histories of the cartridges you're interetsed in and look at www.BrassFetcher.com for performance of them in gel with different bullet types.


7.62x39, .223 Remington, and 5.45x39 (AK rounds for soviets post ~1974) are great cheap rounds and work well.
 
the 7.62x39 round was comparable to the .223 in usage

Not if you are looking for any kind of accuracy. Notice you don't see many (if any) 7.62X39's in rifle matches. The 223/5.56 dominates the High Power matches in Service Rifle and do pretty dern good in F-Class matches.

Don't see any 7.62X39s winning anything. I've never seen one at a 1000 yard match, but I've seen (and shoot) 223s in Service Rifle at 1000 yards.

I put on High Power or CMP Clinics every year. Every now and then some one show up with the7.62X39..........ONCE.......they have something else when they come to the next clinic.
 
Conserning an AR, they are not assult rifles. They are modern semi auto rifles that have the same apperance of a military firearm. As to the 223, its a perfect round for your intended purposes. Another thing you will achieve is good practice. The 223 is supera accurate, low recoiling and dosent have super harsh muzzle blast. You will not have any second thoughts about choosing the 223. Just remmember, you must post pics!
 
@brian
I know, I was just making fun of the public fear of those evil black rifles ;)

I'll post pics once I get it, but that may be awhile. I'm in no hurry so I'm waiting for the perfect opportunity. Also, I don't trick out my guns, so it won't be very impressive :)

Edit: While I'm thinking about it, would a 4-12x scope be enough? Or do I need something like 4-16x or even 6-24x?
 
Last edited:
At 300 yards you'd be a-ok with open sights! The 3x9x's are a pretty good fit for most shooters espcially out to 300 yards, as is the 3.5-10x. You'll want to keep the magnification somewhat low for the closer shooting. Remember, your focusing on the crosshairs, not the target.

-Max.
 
How much magnification is mostly personal preference. Iron sights have their place but at 300 yards, a good scope will definitely shrink your groups. For general use a 3-9 is a good choice but at longer distances, more magnification is nice. You can never see to well. Basically, it becomes a matter of choosing higher magnification for better precision at long range or less magnification for faster target aquisition. For target shooting, quick target aquisition is usually a non issue. For hunting, it is an issue. Personally, I wouldn't want less than a 3-9 for the intended use you describe and would prefer more as budget allows. Imo, a 4-16 AO would be great.
 
Edit: While I'm thinking about it, would a 4-12x scope be enough? Or do I need something like 4-16x or even 6-24x?

I run a 10-40 x 50 on mine,but i bench shoot.This would be a poor choice for a hunting scope. Although you can back it off to 10 power. I agree with other post,The bigger you can make your bullseye the tighter your groups will be.
My bullseye at 300 yards is a pencil diamater.
 
Back
Top