Two of the most common intermediate calibers for sporting rifles, specifically AR and AK-style platforms, are .223 Remington (or its counterpart 5.56 NATO) and 7.62x39mm, AKA (no pun intended) 7.62 Soviet.
The latter sits somewhere between .223 and .308 in terms of power and performance, making the 7.62x39mm and .223 somewhat comparable, especially for use in sporting rifles. Let’s take a closer (subjective) look at the two of them. If you don’t have a rifle chambered in either and are looking for something in this class, here’s what you should know, especially, if you’ll be looking for a lot of high-volume low-cost .223 or 7.62 full metal jacket rounds.
Weight
The .223 fires bullets usually weighing between 55 and 70 grains, although they can be a little heavier or lighter, depending.
As for the 7.62 Soviet, its bullets usually weigh between 120 and 150 grains, although, again there are outliers on both sides of that weight.
That alone should tell you all you need to know. Carrying several full mags of .223 will be much easier than several full mags of the 7.62, so plan accordingly if weight and fatigue are concerns for you.
Dimensions
The 7.62 is marginally bigger than the .223, but the dimensions of mags that carry both are fairly similar. The 7.62 won’t take up way too much more room, but remember, while there isn’t a big discrepancy between them in terms of volume, weight is a different issue.
Recoil
Most shooters describe the recoil from a .223 round to be like a light tap on the shoulder – if not less. As for .308, a much more powerful round than either, it’s been likened to a sharp (but light) jab. Since 7.62x39mm is lighter, recoil is even less than that.
Realistically, both of these are very, very low recoiling rounds, so if you’re recoil shy, both will be good for you. The .223 is still lighter, though.
Price
Both are low cost centerfire rounds. Historically, 7.62 has been more competitive, but with restrictions on Russian ammo imports, don’t be surprised if the price of the latter goes up. It looks like in the long run, .223 is going to be the more affordable option. One thing you can do to keep costs down is shoot steel-cased ammo.
Ballistic Performance
Here’s where the real differences between these two cartridges become apparent. The .223 is a lighter hitting, flatter shooting cartridge. It is the clear winner in long distance shooting as it has a far flatter trajectory.
As for 7.62 Soviet, it produces significantly more stopping power up front, and a badly drooping trajectory. Don’t use it for long-distance shooting. As for defensive applications and hunting, some would say it’s a better option than .223, just make sure you don’t use 7.62 full metal jacket bullets for those applications – save the hollow points for that.
Accuracy
At close ranges, accuracy probably has more to do with the rifle than with the cartridge, but the only real caveat we have here is that .223 is a better performer at longer distances. Up close you probably won’t notice much of a difference.
Availability
Historically both of these cartridges have been exceptionally available, but supplies of 7.62 full metal jacket ammo have been dwindling and that should only get worse. If you’re concerned about availability, go the route of the .223. There are plenty of domestic manufacturers that produce it, so we aren’t reliant on imports.
Where to Get .223 and 7.62 Full Metal Jacket Online
Looking for either of these calibers online? Need a whole bunch of cheap FMJ ammo for training purposes or even competition? Get it online at Bucking Horse Outpost. They carry a wide range of different calibers and represent the top brands, such as Federal American Eagle, TulAmmo, Norma, Winchester, Remington and others and offer competitive prices on everything they sell.
