Reloader's Notes

The 7.62x39 is light and economical to shoot.



Reloaders and non-reloaders will want to know what cartridges and loads shot the best...and the worst.



Table of Contents

Cartridge Specifications -

The 7.62x39 (M43) -

7.62x39 Rifles -

The Plan -



The Factory Cartridges -

Range Notes: Commercial Loads -

US Made Ammunition -

European Made Ammunition -



Figuring Out the Handloads -

Primers -

Cases -

Case Preparation Tools -

Case Comparisons - Using Water to Measure the Volume Difference -

Pressure Variations - Differences Caused by Changing the Case -

Bullet Chart -



Load Data – includes Range Notes -

123 Grain Hornady SP -

123 Grain Lapua FMJ -

125 Grain Sierra SP -

150 Grain Hornady Spire Point -

150 Grain Speer -



Tests with WC 735 - 123 and 150 Grain Bullets -



Conclusions -

Powder Burn Rates -

Basic Formulae Commonly Used By Reloaders