Firearms Facts: 7.62x39mm vs 300 Blackout

Published on April 30, 2018
Duration: 25:07

This guide details the modifications needed to run 7.62x39mm ammunition in an AR-15 platform, highlighting the necessity of a proprietary bolt, barrel, and specialized magazines. It also suggests hybrid rifle options for improved reliability. The information is presented with the authority of experienced firearms instructors from Iraqveteran8888.

Quick Summary

Iraqveteran8888 experts compare 7.62x39mm and .300 Blackout, noting that while 7.62x39mm offers cheaper ammunition and better heavy bullet velocity from longer barrels, .300 Blackout provides superior compatibility with the AR-15 platform, excels in short barrels, and is better suited for suppressed shooting.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Trajectory Comparison
  2. 01:07Origins of .300 Blackout
  3. 02:07AR-15 Platform Compatibility
  4. 03:07Specialized 7.62x39mm AR Hybrids
  5. 05:14Ammo Cost and Availability
  6. 06:15Ballistic Performance Comparison
  7. 09:31Short Barrel and Subsonic Performance
  8. 11:08Hunting Applications
  9. 17:29Final Verdict and Preferences

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between 7.62x39mm and .300 Blackout for AR-15 platforms?

Running 7.62x39mm in a standard AR-15 requires a proprietary bolt, barrel, and specialized magazines, which can be less reliable. The .300 Blackout, however, uses standard AR-15 magazines and bolts, needing only a barrel change, making it more compatible.

Which caliber is more cost-effective for ammunition: 7.62x39mm or .300 Blackout?

7.62x39mm has a significant cost advantage due to the widespread availability of inexpensive steel-case surplus and commercial loads like TulAmmo and Wolf, making it ideal for stockpiling compared to the more expensive .300 Blackout.

How do 7.62x39mm and .300 Blackout perform ballistically from a 16-inch barrel?

From a 16-inch barrel, 7.62x39mm generally outperforms .300 Blackout with heavier bullets due to greater case capacity. For instance, 7.62x39mm can push a 154gr bullet at 2100 fps, while .300 Blackout pushes a 150gr bullet at approximately 2000 fps.

What are the advantages of .300 Blackout for short barrels and suppressed shooting?

.300 Blackout excels in short-barreled configurations (9-12 inches) due to its fast-burning powders. It is also superior for suppressed use, reliably cycling subsonic ammunition, which is often problematic with 7.62x39mm platforms.

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