7.62x39mm Ballistics
The Soviet-era 7.62x39mm delivers reliable intermediate-caliber performance in the AR-15 platform. Popular for its affordable ammunition and effective terminal ballistics inside 300 yards.
Cartridge Specifications
Common Bullet Weights and Types
Muzzle Velocity by Barrel Length
Muzzle Energy by Barrel Length
Bullet Drop Table
Values in inches. 16-inch barrel reference data. Positive values rise above line of sight, negative values fall below.
| Load | Zero | 100 yd | 200 yd | 300 yd | 400 yd | 500 yd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 123 gr FMJ | 200 yd | 3.5 | 0 | -13.5 | -39.5 | -81 |
| 124 gr HP | 200 yd | 3.5 | 0 | -13.3 | -39 | -80 |
Wind Drift at 10 mph Crosswind
Drift in inches at a 90 degree full value wind. Estimated from muzzle velocity and G1 ballistic coefficient.
| Load | 100 yd | 200 yd | 300 yd | 400 yd | 500 yd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 123 gr FMJ | 7.6 | 15.2 | 22.8 | 30.4 | 38 |
| 124 gr HP | 7.6 | 15.1 | 22.7 | 30.2 | 37.8 |
Effective Range by Application
Barrel Twist Rate Recommendations
Published Load Data
| Weight | Type | Barrel | MV (fps) | ME (ft-lb) | BC (G1) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 123 gr | FMJ | 16 in | 2,350 | 1,508 | 0.295 | Wolf/Tula 123gr FMJ published specs; ballistic calculator |
| 123 gr | FMJ | 18 in | 2,390 | 1,560 | 0.295 | Wolf/Tula 123gr FMJ published specs; ballistic calculator |
| 123 gr | FMJ | 20 in | 2,420 | 1,599 | 0.295 | Wolf/Tula 123gr FMJ published specs; ballistic calculator |
| 124 gr | HP | 16 in | 2,330 | 1,495 | 0.3 | Hornady SST 7.62x39 published load data |
| 124 gr | HP | 18 in | 2,370 | 1,546 | 0.3 | Hornady SST 7.62x39 published load data |
| 124 gr | HP | 20 in | 2,400 | 1,586 | 0.3 | Hornady SST 7.62x39 published load data |
Data Disclaimer
Ballistic data is approximate and varies by ammunition lot, barrel condition, altitude, and temperature. Data sourced from Wolf/Tula 123gr FMJ published specs; ballistic calculator; Hornady SST 7.62x39 published load data. Always confirm zero and trajectory with your specific firearm.
Pick the right barrel
Twist rate should match the bullet weights you plan to shoot. See barrel steel grades, profiles, chamber types, and twist rate guidance on the barrel specs page, then jump into the builder to filter barrels chambered in 7.62x39mm.