Ammunition Evaluation: Ethiopian 7.62x51mm NATO

Published on September 30, 2018
Duration: 13:28

This evaluation of Ethiopian 7.62x51mm NATO surplus ammunition reveals significant age-related degradation, primarily manifesting as frequent hangfires due to primer issues. While bullet weight is consistent at an average of 143.4 grains and velocity averages 2637 fps, the high standard deviation in velocity (33.29 fps) and the presence of hangfires indicate poor storage or component aging. The ammunition, manufactured between 1977 and 1985, is housed in 280-round cans and features a stick-type powder.

Quick Summary

The Ethiopian 7.62x51mm NATO surplus ammunition, manufactured between 1977-1985, exhibited frequent hangfires due to primer degradation. While bullet weight averaged a consistent 143.4 grains, velocity showed high inconsistency (SD 33.29 fps, avg 2637 fps). It uses stick powder and boat-tail projectiles with magnetic jackets.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Testing Methodology
  2. 02:28Packaging & Historical Context
  3. 05:00Visual Inspection & Test Firearm
  4. 06:07Range Testing & Hangfire Issues
  5. 08:27Velocity Data Analysis
  6. 10:54Component Specifications & Powder Type

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main issues found with the Ethiopian 7.62x51mm NATO surplus ammunition?

The primary issues identified were frequent hangfires, indicating degraded primer performance. Additionally, the ammunition exhibited a high standard deviation in velocity (33.29 fps), suggesting inconsistency due to its age and potential storage conditions.

What were the average velocity and bullet weight for this Ethiopian 7.62x51mm NATO ammo?

The ammunition averaged a velocity of 2637 feet per second (fps). The bullet weight was consistently measured at an average of 143.4 grains, with a very low standard deviation of 0.52 grains.

When and where was this Ethiopian 7.62x51mm NATO ammunition manufactured?

This surplus ammunition was manufactured between 1977 and 1985 at the Emperor Haile Selassie Ammunition Factory in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The factory was established with technical assistance from Czechoslovakia.

What type of powder and projectile construction was observed in the Ethiopian 7.62x51mm NATO cartridges?

The cartridges contained a stick-type smokeless powder. The projectiles were identified as boat-tail, open-base lead core bullets with magnetic steel or gilding metal jackets.

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