How Accurate is 5.56 Out of an AK || Brandon Herrera || Polenar Tactical

Published on November 22, 2020
Duration: 10:55

This video from The VSO Gun Channel, featuring Brandon Herrera, investigates the accuracy and reliability of firing 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition from a 7.62x39mm AK-47. The experiment reveals significant issues, including poor accuracy characterized by keyholing, severe extraction problems, and low projectile velocity, rendering the practice impractical and potentially damaging to the firearm.

Quick Summary

Firing 5.56x45mm ammunition from a 7.62x39mm AK-47 leads to significant problems, including severe keyholing (sideways bullet impacts), extraction failures where casings get stuck, and very low projectile velocity. This practice is not recommended and can potentially damage the firearm.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction: 5.56 in AK-47 Test
  2. 00:40Test Setup & Participants
  3. 01:01AK Model: Arsenal SLR-107FR
  4. 01:24Test Goal & Sponsor
  5. 01:48Sponsor: The Big D Bag
  6. 02:46Loading 5.56 into AK Magazine
  7. 02:59Setting Up the Shot
  8. 03:18First Shot Attempt (5.56)
  9. 03:40Examining First Expelled Casing
  10. 04:14Second Attempt & Preparing for Target Check
  11. 04:30Target Inspection: Keyholing
  12. 04:50Third Shot Attempt (5.56)
  13. 05:00Discussing Barrel Damage & Borescope
  14. 05:24Loading Difficulties
  15. 05:43Fourth Shot Attempt (5.56)
  16. 05:56Fifth Shot Attempt (5.56) & Cycling Failure
  17. 06:09Case Extraction Issues & Cleaning Rod
  18. 06:35Examining Second Expelled Casing
  19. 06:42Velocity Speculation
  20. 07:07Future Test Idea
  21. 07:34Sixth Shot Attempt (7.62)
  22. 07:46Seventh Shot Attempt (5.56)
  23. 08:00Target Check: 7.62 vs 5.56 Keyhole
  24. 08:44Expelled Casing with Unburnt Powder
  25. 09:23Summary: Accuracy, Function, & Damage
  26. 10:07Conclusion & Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when you fire 5.56mm from a 7.62x39mm AK-47?

Firing 5.56x45mm from a 7.62x39mm AK-47 results in severe accuracy issues, including keyholing (sideways bullet impacts), significant extraction problems where casings get stuck, and very low projectile velocity. It is not recommended and can damage the firearm.

Is it safe to shoot 5.56mm in a 7.62x39mm AK?

No, it is not safe or advisable to shoot 5.56x45mm ammunition in a 7.62x39mm AK-47. This mismatch can cause the firearm to malfunction, damage the barrel and chamber, and result in unpredictable and dangerous projectile behavior like keyholing.

What are the consequences of firing the wrong caliber ammunition in a firearm?

Firing the wrong caliber ammunition can lead to catastrophic firearm failure, including chamber bulges, barrel damage, and stuck casings. It also results in extremely poor accuracy, low velocity, and potential injury to the shooter and bystanders due to unpredictable projectile flight.

Why does a 5.56mm round keyhole when fired from a 7.62x39mm AK-47?

Keyholing occurs because the 5.56x45mm bullet is too small and lacks the proper rifling engagement within the 7.62x39mm barrel. This results in insufficient spin for stabilization, causing the bullet to tumble and strike the target sideways.

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