It is likely the case that most AR-style rifles are built around the 5.56 NATO cartridge, following in the footsteps of the United States military’s use of the cartridge.
But it is also the case that there are tons of other parts for AR-style rifles that are not backformed around this limitation.
One such option at your disposal is to build a rifle with a 7.62×39 upper, chambered for the 7.62 Soviet (not to be confused with the 7.62 NATO, which is larger and more powerful).
There are several good reasons why you might want to consider a 7.62×39 upper for your next AR project. These are some of the best of them.
Stopping Power
Easily the best argument for building a rifle with a 7.62×39 upper rather than a 5.56 upper is that the age-old 7.62 Soviet cartridge produces considerably more stopping power.
It lies between the 5.56 and 7.62 NATO in terms of stopping power, which makes it better as a defensive cartridge. Also, since the bullet is heavier and slower, there’s generally less of a risk of overpenetration when used with an appropriate bullet, unlike the light and laser-fast 5.56.
At any rate, this also makes this a good cartridge for hunting intermediate game at close ranges. Think deer or hogs. It’s a great cartridge for these.
Cost and Availability
It will be more expensive than 5.56, but there will also be times when you can get a bulk deal on 7.62 that’s so cheap you won’t believe it. You can also look into steel-cased ammo, like TulAmmo, to get an impression of how to drive down costs. There’s also usually quite a lot of availability for this cartridge, too.
Similar Recoil
It will kick harder than 5.56, so if recoil is really a concern, go lighter. At the same time, you’ll only get a little more recoil from the 7.62 but reap a lot more stopping power.
Similar Portability and Weight
Like the 5.56, the 7.62 Soviet is a small, compact intermediate rifle cartridge. It’s not that heavy so it’s not too bad to carry a few spare loaded mags, and you can stock ammo cans at similar weights and volumes.
Where a 7.62×39 Upper Is Not So Hot
There is really one thing that 7.62 is not good for, and it’s long range shooting. This is because of the horrifically, abysmally drooping trajectory that the bullet produces. It’s great for close-range and defensive disciplines, but once you get past, say, 200 yards, there are way better options, and 5.56 is one of them.
Otherwise, if you’re really concerned about cost or availability, it might, strictly speaking, be better to go with “old reliable” (5.56), but again, the two cartridges are somewhat comparable on that front. As long as you don’t plan to use 7.62 for long range shooting you should be fine.
Here for a 7.62×39 Upper?
If you’re in the market for a 7.62×39 upper for your next build, check out MCS Gearup and bookmark the page.
In addition to an exhaustive range of complete uppers in 7.62, they also carry uppers in other popular alternative chamberings, like .300 BLK, along with AR15 pistol uppers and short barrel rifle parts.
They also carry a wide range of AR parts that you’ll find useful for your build, whatever caliber or cartridge you ultimately settle on. Visit their website or get in touch with them at [email protected] for more information.
