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

Published on November 3, 2020
Duration: 20:31

This video from Military Arms Channel, featuring expert Tim, delves into the world of 'truck guns,' specifically focusing on AKS-74U variants. Tim provides historical context, technical specifications, and practical performance comparisons between 5.45x39mm, 5.56x45mm NATO, and 7.62x39mm calibers in short-barreled configurations. The analysis highlights the ballistic advantages of the 7.62x39mm in short barrels and offers a final assessment for practical use.

Quick Summary

Expert Tim from Military Arms Channel analyzes AKS-74U variants, concluding that the 7.62x39mm SAM7K is the most practical 'truck gun' due to superior ballistic energy retention from its short barrel. He also discusses the aesthetic appeal of the 5.45x39mm and the fun factor of the 5.56x45mm variant.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to AKS-74U (Krinkov)
  2. 01:03Historical Context: Soviet Helicopter Crews
  3. 02:17Bulgarian 7.62x39mm Pistol Variant
  4. 02:52Arsenal 5.56x45mm SBR Overview
  5. 03:435.45x39mm Krinkov Performance & Concussion
  6. 05:58Gas Block and Front Sight Tower Detail
  7. 07:29LabRadar: 5.45x39mm Muzzle Velocity
  8. 07:385.56x45mm Variant Features & Recoil
  9. 10:56LabRadar: 5.56x45mm Muzzle Velocity
  10. 11:05SAM7K (7.62x39) Milled Receiver Details
  11. 15:09LabRadar: 7.62x39mm Muzzle Velocity
  12. 15:17Ballistic Comparison: 7.62x39 vs 5.56 vs 5.45
  13. 18:41Final Assessment: Best Truck Gun Caliber

Frequently Asked Questions

What caliber is best for a short-barreled 'truck gun' like the AKS-74U?

For short-barreled firearms like the AKS-74U, 7.62x39mm often proves superior due to its energy retention. Data shows it outperforms 5.56x45mm NATO and 5.45x39mm in muzzle energy from 8-inch barrels, making it a practical choice.

What are the key differences between milled and stamped receivers on AKS-74U variants?

Milled receivers, like on the Arsenal SAM7K, are heavier but offer greater durability. Stamped receivers, common on the classic AKS-74U, are lighter but potentially less robust. The choice depends on priorities for weight versus longevity.

What are the performance characteristics of the 5.45x39mm AKS-74U from a short barrel?

The 5.45x39mm AKS-74U, despite its popularity, produces significant concussion and muzzle flash from its short 8-inch barrel. While aesthetically pleasing, its ballistic energy retention is lower than 7.62x39mm in this configuration.

How does the 5.56x45mm NATO variant of the AKS-74U perform?

The 5.56x45mm NATO variant offers gentler recoil and benefits from the wide availability of American ammunition. It's noted as being the most fun to shoot among the tested calibers, though its ballistic energy from short barrels is less than 7.62x39mm.

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