Bullets of 7.62x39

[HB]

I'm getting into reloading and I want to load 30-30 and 7.62x39. I know what loader, etc I'm getting, but what would be a good bullet for the sks ( I know, I know). 7.62x39 shoots a light bullet compared to other .30's, but do you think that a 150 or so would shoot well despite a possible rate of twist issue? How avalible are the sub 140 grain .30's? I basically want a cheaper yet quality practice bullet (FMJ or HP) and a decent hunting bullet; any suggestions?


Thanks,
HB

 

[Grumulkin]

I bought some 0.311 diameter FMJ bulk Winchester bullets (110 grains if I remember correctly) from MidwayUSA. They shoot VERY well in my SKS (5 shot 100 yard group of 2 inches or less with iron sights). Some SKS rifles have different groove diameter than others so your results may vary.

 

[Marlin 45 carbine]

Hornady makes a 125 grain .310 VMax polymer tip slug that shoots good in my Mini-30, some of the slugs meant for the .303 Brit may be what you want to try. I shoot .308 slugs from Sierra in my Mini w/good results.

 

[strat81]

You'll need .310"-.311" bullets for an SKS, not the more common .308" bullets. .310-.311 are not available in a variety of weights or types... you'll find FMJ and JSP in ~123gr and ~150gr varieties. I shoot Hornady 123gr JSP out of my AK.

 

[R.W.Dale]

I've had good luck shooting 170grn FP's for 30-30win in my CZ527 in 7.62x39

 

[fireflyfather]

Cast your own.

 

[aka108]

You might want to check out Golden West Brass. Price on their site is 75 dollars for 1,000 in 7.62X39.

 

[FieroCDSP]

I've been shooting both a Remington 125gr SP and a Hornaday 123gr SP out of mine. My own iron sight skill is limited, but I can pull in a 2" group at 50 with them. .310's seem to be a bit more availiable than a .311.

 

[mokin]

Another point to remember when loading for an SKS and .310/.311 bullets is that American manufactured 7.62x39mm brass is formed for .308 caliber bullets and the correct size expander must be used when forming the case. I sort of had a learning experience with my first batch.... As far as bullets go my SKSs really like the 123 grain FMJ round by Hornady. I've only used them on paper and gongs but they generally go where I intend and it seems easier to get consistent cartridge lengths with the FMJs than the soft point bullets.

 

[Marlin 45 carbine]

IIRC Powder Valley has 150 gr. .310 FMJ's on there listing. I'll check again and post.
just checked and Nyetski Comrade it's 'Golden West Brass' that has them.