I’ve been considering using the 7.62x39 cartridge for deer hunting, and I’d really like to hear some thoughts on its effectiveness. I’ve done a bit of research but I know first-hand experiences and advice from fellow hunters can really help me make a more informed decision.
Performance Overview
From what I gather, the 7.62x39 has been praised for its decent stopping power and trajectory. However, I’d like to delve into specifics, such as:
Ballistics: How does the 7.62x39 perform in terms of velocity and energy when compared to other popular deer cartridges?
Range: What’s the effective range people have had success with? I want to ensure I can ethically take shots that are within a reasonable distance.
Bullet Selection: What types of ammo do you find work best for deer? Are there specific brands or bullet types you swear by?
Legal Considerations
Are there any legal restrictions I should be aware of when using the 7.62x39 for deer hunting in various states? I know different places have different laws regarding calibers, and I would appreciate any insights on this front.
Personal Experiences
I’m particularly interested in hearing about your experiences in the field. Have you had success with this caliber? Any epic fails or surprises? Also, do you think the 7.62x39 has any disadvantages compared to more traditional deer hunting rounds?
Summary
Overall, I’m just trying to gather as much information as possible before making my choice. I want to ensure that I am adequately prepared and equipped for the hunting season.
Any advice or insights you could share would be greatly appreciated!
The 7.62x39 is known for its good terminal ballistics. It delivers around 1,500 to 2,000 ft-lbs of energy, which can be effective for deer at reasonable ranges. However, its effective range is usually considered to be around 200 yards.
That’s quite interesting! I think the 7.62x39 can perform well, especially in thicker woods where shots are shorter. What about the bullet drop at longer ranges?
The bullet drop for the 7.62x39 can be significant beyond 200 yards. Some shooters report a drop of about 12-18 inches at 300 yards. It’s crucial to know your range and adjust accordingly!
Absolutely, staying under 150 yards is smart. The energy transfer is decent but varies by bullet type. Soft points can expand nicely, increasing their lethality on deer, while FMJs might not expand and may pass through.
Definitely! Hollow points tend to expand and create a bigger wound channel, which is ideal for deer. FMJs are best for target shooting. No wonder they call it ‘hunting with the wrong tool’ sometimes!
For larger deer, the 7.62x39 can be effective, especially with the right ammunition. It might struggle a bit on larger bucks unless you make a well-placed shot. Always best to practice and know your accuracy!
Usually, 123-150 grain bullets perform well for deer. The heavier the bullet, the better it is for penetration, but with the right shot placement, even lighter ones can be effective.
I’ve used the 7.62x39 for deer hunting and found it effective. It’s a solid round, but how does it stack up against .308? The .308 seems to have more stopping power, right?
I think it really depends on the terrain and distance. In thick woods, the 7.62x39 is great because you don’t need high velocity shots. In open fields, .270 or .30-06 might shine.
7.62x39 is adequate for deer, but I still lean towards .308 for that extra assurance in stopping power. It’s hard to overlook the efficiency of a .308.