Lindcott Armory Compare / 5.56x45mm NATO vs 7.62x39mm Soviet
Cartridge comparison
5.56x45mm NATO vs 7.62x39mm Soviet
5.56x45mm NATO is faster (3,240 vs 2,400 fps); 7.62x39mm Soviet carries more energy (1,550 vs 1,400 ft·lb); 5.56x45mm NATO recoils less.
5.56x45mm NATO →Representative trajectory · 100 yd zero0–1000 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
7.62x39mm Soviet →Representative trajectory · 100 yd zero0–800 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
| 5.56x45mm NATO | 7.62x39mm Soviet | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Rifle | Rifle |
| Introduced | 1980 | 1943 |
| Bullet ⌀ | 0.224″ | 0.312″ |
| Case length | 1.76″ | 1.528″ |
| Velocity | 2,750–3,240 fps | 2,300–2,400 fps |
| Energy | 1,200–1,400 ft·lb | 1,450–1,550 ft·lb |
| Max pressure | 62,000 psi | 45,010 psi |
| Recoil | 3.8–5.5 ft·lb | 8–12 ft·lb |
| Eff. range | 600 yd | 400 yd |
FAQs
- Is 5.56x45mm NATO faster than 7.62x39mm Soviet?
- 5.56x45mm NATO is faster — up to 3,240 fps versus 2,400 fps.
- Does 5.56x45mm NATO hit harder than 7.62x39mm Soviet?
- 7.62x39mm Soviet carries more muzzle energy (1,550 vs 1,400 ft·lb).