Mastering the 7.62x39mm: A Deep Dive into Red Army Standard 122 Grain Hollow Point Ammunition

For anyone seeking reliable and effective ammunition for their 7.62x39mm firearms, understanding the nuances of different bullet types and manufacturers is crucial. Whether you own an iconic AK-47, a venerable SKS rifle, or another platform chambered in this ubiquitous cartridge, the choice of ammunition significantly impacts performance, application, and overall shooting experience. This comprehensive guide focuses on the Red Army Standard AM3371 7.62x39mm 122 Grain Hollow Point (HP) ammunition, a popular choice among shooters for a variety of purposes.

What is the Best 7.62x39mm Ammunition for General Use and Specific Applications?

The 7.62x39mm cartridge itself is a legendary design, originating in the Soviet Union and becoming the standard for rifles like the AK-47 and SKS. Its robust design, moderate recoil, and effective terminal performance have cemented its place in military, sporting, and self-defense circles worldwide. When selecting ammunition, shooters often weigh factors such as cost, reliability, accuracy, and terminal ballistics.

Red Army Standard ammunition, specifically the AM3371, is a noteworthy contender in this market. It's designed to offer a balance of affordability and performance, making it an excellent option for high-volume range training, plinking, and even certain hunting scenarios where legal and ethical.

Who Is This Ammunition For?

This 122-grain Hollow Point ammunition from Red Army Standard is ideal for a diverse group of firearm enthusiasts:

• Recreational Shooters & Plinkers: Looking for cost-effective ammunition for enjoyable range sessions without breaking the bank. Its steel-cased construction contributes to its affordability.
• AK-47 and SKS Owners: Those who demand reliable feeding and ejection from their Kalashnikov-pattern rifles or SKS carbines, which are inherently designed to operate efficiently with steel-cased ammunition.
• Hunters: Seeking a budget-friendly option for small to medium-sized game where the hollow point design can offer adequate terminal expansion. (Always check local hunting regulations regarding bullet types.)
• Training Facilities & Instructors: Requiring bulk ammunition for tactical training courses or marksmanship practice.
• Preppers and Stockpilers: Building an ammunition reserve that offers a good balance of quantity and practical utility.

What Problems Does Red Army Standard AM3371 Solve?

Many shooters face challenges in finding dependable and economical ammunition. The Red Army Standard AM3371 effectively addresses several common concerns:

• High Cost of Shooting: Steel-cased ammunition is typically more affordable than brass-cased alternatives, significantly reducing the per-round cost for frequent shooters. This means more trigger time and practice for your budget.
• Reliability in Specific Platforms: AK-pattern rifles and SKS carbines are known for their ruggedness and ability to cycle a wide range of ammunition, particularly steel-cased varieties. This Red Army Standard load is engineered to run smoothly in these platforms, minimizing malfunctions.
• Versatility of Use: While primarily favored for training, the hollow point bullet offers a step up in terminal performance compared to standard full metal jacket (FMJ) rounds, making it a more versatile choice for potential hunting or defense applications (where legal and appropriate).
• Availability of Bulk Ammunition: Packaged in 20-round boxes and conveniently bundled into 50-box (1000-round) cases, it simplifies the process of purchasing and storing ammunition in bulk quantities. This is particularly appealing for those who prefer to buy in larger batches to secure better pricing and ensure a steady supply.

Delving Deeper into 7.62x39mm Hollow Point Performance

The "HP" in 122 gr Hollow Point signifies a bullet designed to expand upon impact. Unlike a Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) bullet, which typically passes through a target with minimal deformation, a hollow point is engineered with a cavity in its nose. This cavity encourages the bullet to open up, increasing its diameter and creating a larger wound channel, thereby transferring more energy to the target and reducing over-penetration.

How Does a 122 Grain Hollow Point Perform?

The 122-grain bullet weight is standard for 7.62x39mm ammunition, providing a good balance of velocity and kinetic energy. When propelled from a rifle like an AK-47, this ammunition can achieve muzzle velocities typically in the range of 2,350 to 2,400 feet per second (fps), generating muzzle energy around 1,500 to 1,550 foot-pounds (ft-lbs). These figures highlight its capability for effective terminal performance at common shooting distances.

• Terminal Ballistics: For hunting, the expansion characteristics of a hollow point are crucial for a humane kill. While 7.62x39mm is often considered marginal for deer-sized game, a well-placed shot with an expanding bullet like this 122 gr HP can be effective on smaller deer, hogs, and varmints. For self-defense, the expansion helps to stop a threat more effectively and reduces the risk of the bullet passing through and striking unintended targets.
• Accuracy: While steel-cased ammunition, including Red Army Standard, is generally known for its reliability and affordability over match-grade precision, many shooters report satisfactory accuracy for general range use, plinking, and even practical shooting competitions. Consistent manufacturing processes contribute to repeatable performance. For most AK-47 and SKS users, who prioritize functional reliability and reasonable accuracy at typical ranges (e.g., 50-200 yards), this ammunition meets and often exceeds expectations.

Why Choose Steel-Cased Ammunition?

Red Army Standard ammunition is known for its lacquered steel cases. This construction offers several distinct advantages, particularly for the 7.62x39mm cartridge:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Steel is a cheaper material than brass, leading to lower production costs and, consequently, lower prices for the consumer. This makes high-volume shooting much more accessible.
• Durability and Extraction: Steel cases are robust and less prone to denting during handling or feeding. The lacquer coating, often misunderstood as a "glue," is actually a protective layer that helps prevent corrosion and aids in smooth chambering and extraction, especially in the often-rougher chambers of military-style firearms like the AK-47.
• Ideal for AK/SKS Platforms: These rifles were designed with steel-cased ammunition in mind. Their generous chamber tolerances and powerful extraction systems are well-suited to handle the properties of steel cases, often cycling more reliably than with some brass-cased alternatives that might stick or fail to extract in a "dirty" chamber.

It's important to note that steel-cased ammunition is generally non-reloadable. For shooters who do not reload their own cartridges, this is not a concern. Additionally, some indoor ranges may prohibit steel-cased ammunition due to concerns about magnetic projectiles (which can spark) or difficulties in separating steel from brass for recycling. Always check your range's policies before visiting.

Red Army Standard: A Trusted Name in Ammunition

Red Army Standard has established itself as a go-to brand for shooters seeking dependable, economically priced ammunition. Their products are manufactured to provide consistent performance that meets the demands of various shooting disciplines. The AM3371 122 gr HP embodies this commitment.

Key Features and Specifications of Red Army Standard AM3371:

• Caliber: 7.62x39mm – The iconic cartridge for AK-47, SKS, and similar platforms.
• Bullet Weight: 122 Grain – A standard and effective weight for this caliber, offering a good balance of velocity and energy.
• Bullet Type: Hollow Point (HP) – Designed for expansion upon impact, enhancing terminal performance for hunting or defensive applications.
• Case Material: Steel Case – Contributes to affordability and robust performance, especially in firearms designed for steel-cased ammunition. Often lacquered for smooth feeding and corrosion resistance.
• Primer: Non-corrosive Boxer Primer – Ensures reliable ignition without causing long-term damage to your firearm's bore, unlike corrosive primers of yesteryear.
• Packaging: Available in 20-round boxes, typically sold in cases of 50 boxes (1000 rounds per case), providing ample supply for extensive shooting sessions.
• Consistency: Manufactured with modern techniques to ensure consistent propellant charges and bullet seating, leading to predictable ballistics shot after shot.

Where Can I Find Reliable Red Army Standard Ammunition?

When you’re ready to purchase Red Army Standard AM3371 7.62x39mm 122 Grain Hollow Point ammunition, ensuring you buy from a reputable vendor is paramount. Many shooters turn to trusted online retailers like DEGuns for their wide selection of ammunition, competitive pricing, and reliable shipping. DEGuns offers a convenient way to purchase ammunition in the quantities you need, from single boxes to full cases. Their commitment to customer service and inventory management makes them a reliable source for your shooting needs.

Whether you are stocking up for future training, preparing for a hunting trip, or simply enjoying a day at the range, the Red Army Standard 122 gr HP is a solid choice that balances performance with affordability. Remember to always store your ammunition in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to preserve its integrity over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About 7.62x39mm Ammunition

Q: Is 7.62x39mm good for hunting deer?
A: While 7.62x39mm can be used for deer, it is generally considered to be on the lighter side for ethical deer hunting. It is more suitable for smaller game like hogs, coyotes, and varmints. If hunting deer, ensure precise shot placement and verify that the hollow point bullet provides sufficient expansion and penetration for a humane kill in your specific hunting conditions. Always check local hunting regulations regarding caliber and bullet type.

Q: Can I use Red Army Standard steel-cased ammo in my AK-47?
A: Absolutely. AK-47 rifles are designed to operate flawlessly with steel-cased ammunition, which includes Red Army Standard. In fact, many shooters find steel-cased ammo more reliable in their AKs than some brass-cased alternatives due to the design tolerances of the firearm.

Q: What's the difference between Hollow Point (HP) and Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) ammunition?
A: The primary difference lies in the bullet's terminal performance. An FMJ bullet has a lead core encased in a copper jacket, designed to maintain its shape and penetrate deeply, often exiting the target. A Hollow Point (HP) bullet has an exposed lead core with a cavity in the nose, designed to expand upon impact, transferring more energy to the target and creating a larger wound channel, while typically reducing over-penetration. HP is generally preferred for hunting and self-defense, while FMJ is common for target practice.

Q: Is Red Army Standard ammunition corrosive?
A: No, modern Red Army Standard ammunition, including the AM3371, uses non-corrosive Boxer primers. This means you do not need to take extra steps to clean your firearm immediately after shooting to prevent rust, unlike with some older surplus military ammunition.

Q: How does the 122 grain weight compare to other 7.62x39mm bullet weights?
A: 122 grain is a very common and traditional bullet weight for 7.62x39mm. It offers a good balance of velocity and kinetic energy for a wide range of applications. Heavier bullets (e.g., 154 grain) typically have slightly lower velocities but may offer better penetration or energy retention at longer distances, while lighter bullets are less common for this caliber.

Q: Can I reload Red Army Standard steel cases?
A: Steel cases are generally not suitable for reloading. They are less malleable than brass, making them prone to cracking and difficult to resize accurately. Additionally, the primers are typically crimped in place, making removal difficult. For reloaders, brass-cased 7.62x39mm ammunition is the preferred choice.

Product Specifications: Red Army Standard AM3371

Feature	Detail
Caliber	7.62x39mm
Bullet Weight	122 Grain
Bullet Type	Hollow Point (HP)
Case Material	Steel (Lacquered)
Primer Type	Non-Corrosive Boxer
Muzzle Velocity	Approximately 2,350 - 2,400 FPS (from rifle)
Muzzle Energy	Approximately 1,500 - 1,550 ft-lbs (from rifle)
Packaging	20 Rounds per Box, 50 Boxes per Case (1000 Rds)
Manufacturer	Red Army Standard
Product Code	AM3371
UPC	887459000109