What Guns Take 7.62? A Comprehensive Guide to 7.62x[Caliber] Firearms
The question "What gun takes 7.62?" is deceptively simple. The answer depends entirely on the specific 7.62 cartridge you're referring to. 7.62 is a metric measurement indicating the diameter of the bullet in millimeters, and there are numerous cartridges using this base measurement, each with differing dimensions and applications. This guide will explore some of the most common 7.62 cartridges and the firearms that utilize them.
Understanding the Variations: Key Differences in 7.62 Cartridges
Before diving into specific firearms, it's crucial to understand that "7.62" isn't a single caliber. The following are some of the most prevalent:
-
7.62x25mm Tokarev: A relatively short and powerful cartridge commonly found in handguns like the TT-33 Tokarev and various clones and variants. It’s known for its stopping power at close range but lacks the range and accuracy of longer cartridges.
-
7.62x39mm: This is one of the most prolific calibers globally, notably used in the AK-47 and its numerous variants, as well as other rifles like the SKS. It's a relatively short and powerful intermediate cartridge, balancing manageable recoil with significant stopping power.
-
7.62x51mm NATO (.308 Winchester): A powerful full-powered rifle cartridge adopted by NATO forces. It's used in a wide array of battle rifles and sniper rifles, including the M14, FN FAL, HK G3, and many modern sporting rifles (MSRs). It's known for its long range accuracy and stopping power.
-
7.62x54mmR: A powerful and long-range rifle cartridge used in the iconic Mosin-Nagant rifle and various other bolt-action rifles, primarily of Russian origin. Its rimmed design distinguishes it from other 7.62 cartridges.
Firearms that utilize common 7.62 calibers:
Below is a breakdown of firearms for some of the most prevalent 7.62 cartridges. This list is not exhaustive, as numerous variants and models exist for each caliber:
7.62x39mm Firearms:
- AK-47 and its variants (AKM, AK-74M, etc.): Perhaps the most iconic 7.62x39mm firearm, known for its ruggedness, reliability, and widespread use.
- SKS Carbine: A semi-automatic carbine popular for its historical significance and relative affordability.
- Various other rifles and carbines: A wide range of other firearms chambered in 7.62x39mm exists from various manufacturers.
7.62x51mm NATO (.308 Winchester) Firearms:
- M14 Rifle: A classic battle rifle used by the U.S. military.
- FN FAL (Fabrique Nationale d'Herstal): Another well-known battle rifle used by numerous militaries worldwide.
- HK G3 (Heckler & Koch): A battle rifle known for its accuracy and reliability.
- Numerous sniper rifles: Many high-precision sniper rifles utilize the 7.62x51mm cartridge, including various models from manufacturers such as Remington, Accuracy International, and others.
- Modern Sporting Rifles (MSRs): A growing number of AR-10 platform rifles are chambered in .308 Winchester, offering a platform for customization and versatility.
7.62x54mmR Firearms:
- Mosin-Nagant Rifle: A bolt-action rifle with a long and storied history, known for its ruggedness and accuracy.
- Other bolt-action rifles: Various other rifles, mainly of Russian or Soviet design, utilize the 7.62x54mmR cartridge.
Important Safety Considerations:
Always prioritize safety when handling firearms. Never handle a firearm unless you've received proper training and understand its operation. Consult with experienced professionals and follow all local, state, and federal laws regarding firearm ownership and use.
This guide provides a general overview; further research is recommended for specific firearm models and their capabilities. The vast array of 7.62 cartridges and the firearms that use them highlights the importance of precise specification when discussing this caliber. Remember to always handle firearms responsibly and legally.
