The Greatest Truck Guns! The Choppers! But what caliber is best?

Published on November 3, 2020
Duration: 20:31

This review compares three short-barreled AK variants: the 5.45x39mm Krinkov, a 5.56x45mm Arsenal SBR, and a 7.62x39mm SAM7K. Despite its short barrel, the 7.62x39mm SAM7K demonstrates superior ballistic energy retention compared to the 5.45x39mm and 5.56x45mm variants, making it the most practical truck gun. The 5.45x39mm is noted for aesthetics, while the 5.56x45mm offers gentler recoil and uses common ammunition.

Quick Summary

For short-barreled AK 'truck guns,' the 7.62x39mm caliber excels in ballistic energy retention, delivering 1065 ft-lbs from an 8-inch barrel. While 5.56x45mm offers common ammo and softer recoil, and 5.45x39mm is aesthetically pleasing, 7.62x39mm provides the most practical performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: The Krinkov (AKS-74U)
  2. 02:17Bulgarian 7.62x39 Pistol Variant
  3. 02:52Arsenal 5.56x45 SBR Overview
  4. 03:435.45x39 Krinkov Performance & Concussion
  5. 07:385.56x45 Variant Features & Recoil
  6. 11:05SAM7K (7.62x39) Milled Receiver Details
  7. 15:17Ballistic Comparison: 7.62x39 vs 5.56 vs 5.45
  8. 18:41Final Assessment: Best Truck Gun?

Frequently Asked Questions

Which caliber performs best in short-barreled AK 'truck guns'?

Based on ballistic testing with 8-inch barrels, the 7.62x39mm caliber demonstrates superior energy retention, delivering the most muzzle energy compared to 5.45x39mm and 5.56x45mm. This makes it a practical choice for a truck gun.

What are the key differences between milled and stamped AK receivers?

Milled receivers, like on the Arsenal SAM7K, are heavier and generally more durable than stamped receivers found on variants like the classic Krinkov. The SAM7K also features improved sights and an ambidextrous safety.

Is the 5.45x39mm Krinkov suitable as a truck gun?

While aesthetically pleasing, the 5.45x39mm Krinkov with its short barrel produces significant muzzle flash and concussion, potentially making it less practical for close-quarters or defensive use compared to the 7.62x39mm variant.

What are the advantages of the 5.56x45mm AK variant?

The 5.56x45mm variant offers gentler recoil and utilizes widely available American ammunition. However, its accessory rail can be obstructed when the stock is folded, and its ballistic performance in short barrels is less than 7.62x39mm.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Military Arms Channel

View all →