M4 vs AK47; which is deadlier?

Published on August 27, 2023
Duration: 23:05

This video provides a detailed, expert-level comparison between the M4 Carbine and the AKM, focusing on terminal ballistics and lethality. Garand Thumb, a recognized subject matter expert with a military background, uses professional ballistic testing to evaluate different ammunition types for each platform. The analysis covers standard FMJ rounds as well as specialized military and hunting loads, offering insights into projectile performance and wound channels.

Quick Summary

The lethality of an M4 versus an AK-47 depends heavily on ammunition choice and engagement distance. While the AK-47 with standard 7.62x39mm FMJ can inflict more immediate damage up close, the M4 platform, when utilizing advanced 5.56x45mm rounds like M855A1, offers superior accuracy, range, and potentially more devastating terminal effects through fragmentation and expansion.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: M4 vs AK47 Debate
  2. 01:06Sponsorships & Products
  3. 02:19Weapon Overview: M4 URGI vs AKM
  4. 03:01Caliber Comparison: 5.56 vs 7.62x39
  5. 05:33Ballistic Gel Testing: Standard Rounds
  6. 07:43Ballistic Gel Testing: Specialty Rounds
  7. 13:11Ballistic Dummy Testing
  8. 17:02High-Performance Round Testing
  9. 20:04Conclusion: Lethality Verdict

Frequently Asked Questions

Which rifle is deadlier, the M4 or the AK-47?

The lethality depends on the ammunition used and the engagement distance. The AK-47 with standard 7.62x39mm FMJ can offer more immediate damage at close range. However, the M4 platform, when paired with advanced 5.56x45mm ammunition like M855A1, provides superior accuracy and range, with potentially more devastating terminal effects through fragmentation.

How does 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition perform compared to 7.62x39mm?

5.56x45mm NATO relies heavily on velocity for fragmentation, often breaking apart after several inches of penetration in ballistic media. 7.62x39mm, being heavier and slower, typically shows more immediate energy transfer and significant wound cavity creation at closer ranges.

What are the key differences in terminal ballistics between M4 and AKM platforms?

The M4 platform excels with specialized 5.56x45mm ammunition, demonstrating impressive fragmentation and expansion, particularly with rounds like M855A1. The AKM platform, with its 7.62x39mm caliber, provides substantial immediate impact and wound channel creation, especially at closer distances with standard FMJ ammunition.

What role does ammunition play in determining rifle lethality?

Ammunition is a critical factor. While the rifle platform provides accuracy and delivery, the projectile's design (FMJ, OTM, TSX), weight, velocity, and construction dictate its terminal ballistics—how it interacts with tissue, its tendency to fragment or expand, and the resulting wound channel.

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