7.62x39 vs 5.56: AK vs AR Ammo Compared
7.62x39 fires a heavier .30 caliber bullet and is the AK and SKS cartridge; 5.56 fires a lighter, faster .22 caliber bullet and is the AR-15 cartridge. 7.62x39 is often favored for close-range hitting power and cheap steel-case ammo; 5.56 shoots flatter at distance and has lighter recoil.
At a Glance
| 7.62x39 | 5.56 NATO | |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet diameter | .30 caliber | .22 caliber |
| Common bullet weights (our listings) | 123, 124 gr | 55, 62, 77 gr |
| Typical rifles | AK, SKS, Mini-30 | AR-15 |
| Common case types | Steel and brass | Brass |
| Recoil | More | Less |
| Shop | 7.62x39 ammo | 5.56 ammo |
7.62x39 vs 5.56 Ballistics
Factory figures for a common FMJ load in each caliber.
Load key: FMJ = full metal jacket.
| Load (Federal data) | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lb) |
|---|---|---|
| Federal American Eagle (A76239A) 7.62x39 124 gr FMJ |
2350 | 1520 |
| Federal American Eagle (AE193) 5.56x45mm 55 gr FMJ Boat-Tail |
3165 | 1223 |
Figures are as published by Federal Premium on each product page (checked October 30, 2026). Velocity from your own barrel will differ.
Rifles
7.62x39 is mostly fired from AK-pattern rifles and SKS rifles, plus some AR-style rifles built for it. 5.56 is the standard AR-15 cartridge.
Shooting at Distance
5.56 has a flatter trajectory, which makes hits at longer range easier. 7.62x39 is generally used at shorter ranges.
Hunting
With expanding bullets, 7.62x39 is used on deer and hogs at moderate range. 5.56 is more common for varmints and predators, and some states restrict .22 caliber rifles for deer. Check your regulations.
Cost
Steel-case 7.62x39 is often among the cheapest rifle ammo per round. Brass 5.56 range ammo is also widely available in bulk.
Shop Both
7.62x39 ammo | 5.56 ammo | AK rifles | AR-15 rifles. Compare current cost per round in our Ammo Price Index, see every cartridge in our ammo caliber chart.
Orders of $500 or more ship free; ammunition orders under $500 ship for $15.99. Ammunition is not returnable. Some states and cities restrict ammo purchases or shipments, so read our ammo and magazine laws by state before ordering. Tactical Surplus USA has been selling firearms, ammunition and gear since 2022.
FAQ
Is 7.62x39 more powerful than 5.56?
It fires a heavier bullet, while 5.56 is faster and flatter shooting. They suit different jobs.
Can I shoot 7.62x39 in an AR-15?
Only in an AR built for 7.62x39 with the right barrel, bolt and magazines.
Which has more recoil?
7.62x39 fires a heavier bullet and generally has more recoil than 5.56.
Which shoots flatter?
5.56. In Federal's figures, 55 grain 5.56 leaves at 3,165 fps versus 2,350 fps for 124 grain 7.62x39.
Is 7.62x39 cheaper than 5.56?
It varies with the market. Compare current prices in our Ammo Price Index.