Most loads are 123–124gr. Bulk cases are below.

7.62x39mm Ammo Guide

7.62x39mm is the Soviet-designed intermediate cartridge behind the AK-47, AKM and SKS. Today it is also chambered in AK-pattern pistols, the Ruger Mini-30, some bolt-actions and AR-style rifles built for it. It is popular because it is affordable, widely available and hits harder than a 5.56 at short to medium range.

Two things set it apart from Western rounds. First, a lot of 7.62x39 is steel-cased with a lacquer or polymer coating, which most AK-pattern rifles run fine but some rifles and ranges do not like. Second, some older surplus 7.62x39 uses corrosive primers. Modern commercial ammo is generally non-corrosive and will say so on the box.

Best 7.62x39 Ammo by Use

Range and Practice

For range use, 122 to 124 grain FMJ is the standard load. Steel-case options are usually the cheapest per round, while brass-case loads from makers like Prvi Partizan, Sellier & Bellot, Winchester and Federal cost a bit more and can be reloaded. Some indoor ranges ban steel-case or bi-metal jacketed bullets, so ask first.

Self-Defense

For defensive use, look for a soft-point or hollow point load designed to expand. Test it in your rifle before you rely on it, since some AK-pattern rifles are picky about bullet shape.

Hunting

7.62x39 with a soft-point or expanding bullet is used on deer and hogs at moderate range. Many hunting regulations set rules on bullet type or cartridge size, so check yours. FMJ is not a good hunting bullet and is illegal for big game in many states.

7.62x39 Grain Weights and Bullet Types

Our 7.62x39 listings are mostly 123 and 124 grain, with some 117 to 125 grain options and heavier 150 and 196 grain loads. Bullet types include FMJ, soft point and hollow point. Note that 7.62x39 bullets are generally a little wider than .308 bullets, which matters only if you reload.

Quick bullet-type key: FMJ (full metal jacket) is a lead core with a copper jacket that does not expand, the usual range load. JHP (jacketed hollow point) is designed to expand and is the usual defensive load. Soft point and polymer tip bullets are designed to expand and are common for hunting. Solid copper bullets are lead-free and are required for hunting in some areas. Frangible bullets are designed to break up on hard targets and are used at some indoor ranges and steel-target courses.

Brass, Steel and Aluminum Cases

Most 7.62x39 is loaded in brass cases, which are the most widely accepted at ranges and can be reloaded. Steel-case ammo, usually lacquer or polymer coated, often costs less per round but cannot be reloaded, and some ranges and some firearms do not accept it. Aluminum-case ammo, such as Blazer, is a budget option that is also not reloadable. Whatever the case material, the product title and box list the exact cartridge, bullet weight and bullet type, so match those to your gun and your use.

Storing 7.62x39 Ammo

Store ammunition in a cool, dry place away from heat sources and out of reach of children, ideally locked. Sealed ammo cans with a gasket help keep moisture out for long-term storage. Keep different calibers in labeled containers so the wrong cartridge never ends up in a magazine. If ammo is corroded, dented or has been wet, do not fire it.

7.62x39 Ballistics: Common Loads

Published velocity and energy for a 7.62x39 FMJ range load and a soft point hunting load.

Load key: FMJ = full metal jacket.

Figures are as published by Federal Premium on each product page (checked October 30, 2026). Velocity from your own barrel will differ.

7.62x39 Brands We Carry

As of October 30, 2026, this category lists 32 7.62x39 products. Brands we carry in 7.62x39 include Century Arms, Prvi Partizan, Barnaul Ammunition, DoubleTap Ammunition, PMC, Winchester Ammunition, Federal, Sellier & Bellot, Sterling, Belom, Fime Group, Igman and Maxim Defense Industries. Stock changes daily, so filter by availability in the grid above.

Buying 7.62x39 in Bulk vs by the Box

A 20- or 50-round box is the cheapest way to try a load in your gun. Once you know what runs well, larger cases of 250, 500 or 1,000 rounds almost always cost less per round. To compare listings fairly, divide the price by the round count to get the cost per round, and include shipping. Orders of $500 or more ship free, which usually makes a case the better deal. See what 7.62x39 has been costing in our Ammo Price Index, and browse bulk ammo.

How to Choose 7.62x39 Ammo

• Confirm the cartridge stamped on your barrel matches the box exactly.
• Pick the bullet type for the job: FMJ for practice, expanding bullets for defense and hunting.
• Buy a small quantity first and test it in your gun, then buy in bulk.
• Check your range rules for steel case, steel core or bi-metal bullets.
• Check your state and local laws before ordering.

Shipping and State Laws

Orders of $500 or more ship free. Ammunition orders under $500 ship for $15.99. Ammunition is not returnable. You must be of legal age to buy ammunition, and some states and cities restrict ammo shipments, require a license or background check, or limit certain bullet types. Read our ammo and magazine laws by state before ordering. Tactical Surplus USA has been selling firearms, ammunition and gear since 2022.

Related Calibers, Guides and Firearms

Related ammo: 5.56 ammo, .308 Winchester ammo, 300 Blackout ammo. Comparisons: 7.62x39 vs 5.56, ammo caliber chart. Shop AK rifles, AK pistols, rifle magazines.