The 7.62x39mm cartridge is the ammunition used by the AK-47 rifle. This measurement refers to the bullet’s diameter and case length. A 7.62 mm diameter translates to approximately 0.3 inches. Understanding these dimensions is crucial for topics related to ballistics, internal firearm mechanics, and comparing different ammunition types.
Knowing the dimensions of this widely used round provides a foundation for understanding its performance characteristics. This knowledge is relevant to military history, firearms design, and even forensic analysis. The historical context of this cartridge is tied to the development of the AK-47 itself, impacting global conflicts and small arms proliferation throughout the latter half of the 20th century. These physical specifications have influenced battlefield tactics and shaped the design of subsequent firearms and ammunition.