7.62x39 vs 5.56 NATO: AK vs AR Ammo Compared
February 18, 2026 · AmmoBin.com
7.62x39 (the AK round) and 5.56 NATO (the AR round) are the two most popular intermediate rifle cartridges. They're built for different philosophies. Here's the comparison.
Ballistics and terminal effect
5.56 is lighter, faster, and flatter-shooting with less recoil — great for accuracy and longer ranges. 7.62x39 is heavier and slower with a rainbow-ier trajectory, but hits hard at close-to-mid range and penetrates barriers well.
Cost and availability
Both are popular and widely available. 7.62x39 is often steel-cased and cheap (see our brass vs steel guide on case materials); 5.56 brass-cased bulk is the AR value standard. Compare live 7.62x39 and 5.56 prices.
Which should you choose?
Choose 5.56/AR for accuracy, low recoil, and modularity; choose 7.62x39/AK for rugged simplicity and close-range punch. Many shooters end up owning both.
Frequently asked questions
Is 7.62x39 more powerful than 5.56?
7.62x39 fires a heavier, slower bullet that hits hard at close-to-mid range; 5.56 is faster, flatter, and lower-recoil. 'More powerful' depends on the metric and distance.
Which is cheaper, 7.62x39 or 5.56?
Both can be inexpensive in bulk. 7.62x39 is often cheap steel-cased; 5.56 brass-cased bulk is the AR value standard. Compare cost per round.
Compare live prices
