Quick Tip: .300 Blackout vs 7.62x39

Published on January 28, 2020
Duration: 2:48

This guide, presented by Caleb from Brownells, offers a concise comparison between the .300 Blackout and 7.62x39 calibers. It highlights their distinct design origins for the AR and AK platforms, respectively, and explains why direct interchangeability is generally not recommended due to differing feeding mechanisms and case dimensions. The information is presented with an expert's authority, focusing on practical reliability and application.

Quick Summary

The key difference between .300 Blackout and 7.62x39 is their intended firearm platforms: .300 BLK for ARs and 7.62x39 for AKs. This impacts feeding mechanisms and magazine compatibility. While ballistically similar with comparable bullet weights, using them outside their designed platforms can reduce reliability.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction: Caliber Comparison
  2. 00:10Caliber Overview
  3. 00:27Specific Bullet Weights Compared
  4. 00:37Cartridge Case Differences
  5. 00:51Ballistic Similarity at 200 Yards
  6. 01:09Firearm Platform Compatibility
  7. 01:21AK vs. AR Platform Design
  8. 01:37Feeding Mechanism Incompatibility
  9. 01:44ARs in 7.62x39
  10. 02:00Reliability Recommendation
  11. 02:07Bolt Action Availability
  12. 02:18Hunting Applications
  13. 02:27Contact Brownells Tech Line

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between .300 Blackout and 7.62x39?

The primary difference lies in the firearm platforms they were designed for: .300 Blackout for the AR platform and 7.62x39 for the AK platform. This leads to significant differences in feeding mechanisms and magazine compatibility, despite some ballistic similarities.

Are .300 Blackout and 7.62x39 ballistically similar?

Yes, with comparable bullet weights (e.g., 125-grain .300 Blackout vs. 123-grain 7.62x39), they exhibit similar ballistic performance. For instance, both will drop about 7 inches low at 200 yards with a 100-yard zero.

Can I use 7.62x39 in an AR-15 or .300 Blackout in an AK-47?

Generally, no. While some ARs are chambered in 7.62x39 and some AR platforms can accept AK magazines, the feeding mechanisms are vastly different. For optimal reliability, it's recommended to use calibers within the platform they were designed for.

What are the physical differences between .300 Blackout and 7.62x39 cases?

The 7.62x39 case is slightly longer, has more tapered sides, a wider base, and a larger case capacity compared to the .300 Blackout case, which is based on the .223/5.56 case.

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