Discovering the Power of Red Army Standard 5.45x39mm 60 gr FMJ Ammunition

For enthusiasts of the legendary AK-74 platform and anyone seeking reliable, cost-effective ammunition for the 5.45x39mm caliber, the Red Army Standard AM3372 Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) rounds present an compelling solution. This ammunition, specifically the 60 grain (gr) FMJ variant, is a cornerstone for many shooters who prioritize consistent performance for range training, plinking, and general target practice. When you're looking to stock up on ammunition that reliably cycles through your 5.45x39mm firearm without breaking the bank, Red Army Standard has established itself as a go-to choice. Available in convenient 20-round boxes, which are further packaged into bulk 50-case lots, this offering ensures you have plenty of rounds for extended shooting sessions.

What Makes 5.45x39mm Ammunition a Unique Choice?

The 5.45x39mm cartridge was originally developed in the Soviet Union for the AK-74 assault rifle, serving as a response to the NATO 5.56x45mm round. It’s known for its relatively flat trajectory, mild recoil, and effectiveness in various combat scenarios, transitioning into a popular sporting and training round for civilian shooters. Unlike the more common 7.62x39mm for the AK-47, the 5.45x39mm offers a different shooting experience, often described as smoother and more controllable, particularly during rapid fire. For those who own AK-74 pattern rifles, such as Arsenal SLR-104s, Saigas, or custom builds, reliable 5.45x39mm ammunition is essential. Questions often arise like, "What kind of ammunition is best for my AK-74?" or "Where can I find affordable 5.45x39mm for training?" Red Army Standard directly addresses these needs by providing a consistent and economical option.

Key Features of Red Army Standard 60 gr FMJ 5.45x39mm (AM3372)

Understanding the specific characteristics of this ammunition helps shooters make informed decisions about their purchases and anticipate performance. Here’s a breakdown of what the Red Army Standard AM3372 offers:

• Caliber: 5.45x39mm. This specific caliber is designed for firearms chambered in 5.45x39mm, primarily AK-74 variants. It ensures proper fit, feeding, and function in compatible rifles.
• Bullet Weight: 60 grain (gr). This is a standard and popular bullet weight for the 5.45x39mm cartridge, providing a balanced combination of velocity and stability for general purpose shooting. It offers predictable ballistics suitable for most range applications.
• Bullet Type: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ). FMJ bullets consist of a lead core fully encased in a harder metal jacket (usually copper or steel alloy). This design is highly effective for:
  • Range Training: FMJ bullets are ideal for target practice as they reliably feed and function in most firearms.
  • Penetration: Their design offers good penetration, making them suitable for paper targets and some steel targets at appropriate distances.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: FMJ is generally less expensive to produce than hollow point or soft point bullets, contributing to the overall affordability of this ammunition.
• Casing Material: Steel. A hallmark of many Eastern European ammunition manufacturers, these rounds feature lacquered steel casings. Steel cases are a significant factor in the affordability of this ammunition, making it an excellent choice for high-volume shooting. While some shooters prefer brass cases for reloading, steel cases are perfectly functional and reliable for single-use applications.
• Primer Type: Berdan Primed, Non-Corrosive. This is a crucial distinction. Red Army Standard 5.45x39mm ammunition utilizes Berdan primers, which are typically found in military-style ammunition and are not easily reloadable with standard Western reloading equipment. However, the critical point for modern shooters is that these primers are non-corrosive. This means they will not cause rust or damage to your firearm's barrel or action, unlike older surplus ammunition which often used corrosive primers requiring immediate, thorough cleaning. This feature ensures longevity for your firearm with regular cleaning practices.
• Packaging: 20 rounds per box, 50 boxes per case (1000 rounds total per case). This packaging makes it convenient to purchase in smaller quantities for a single range trip (20-round boxes) or in bulk for serious training and stocking up (50-box cases). The case quantity (50 boxes x 20 rounds = 1000 rounds) is perfect for high-volume shooters and ensures you always have ammunition on hand.

Who Benefits Most from Red Army Standard 5.45x39mm Ammunition?

This specific type of ammunition is tailored for a particular segment of the shooting community. If you find yourself asking questions such as "What's good bulk ammo for my AK-74?" or "I need reliable and cheap 5.45x39mm for plinking," then this product is likely designed with you in mind.

• AK-74 Owners and Enthusiasts: This is the primary target audience. If you own an AK-74, SGL-31, SLR-104, Saiga, or any other rifle chambered in 5.45x39mm, this ammunition provides a consistent and affordable feeding solution. It's engineered to work seamlessly with the robust design of these firearms.
• Budget-Conscious Shooters: For those who want to maximize their trigger time without excessive cost, steel-cased ammunition like Red Army Standard is an excellent choice. The manufacturing process for steel cases is more economical than brass, which translates to lower prices per round.
• Range Shooters and Plinkers: When your goal is to spend hours at the range hitting targets and honing your skills, you need reliable ammunition in volume. The 60 gr FMJ is perfect for paper targets, steel gongs (where permitted), and general recreational shooting.
• Training and Drills: For individuals engaging in tactical training, competitive shooting (where FMJ is allowed), or simply practicing their shooting fundamentals, the consistency of Red Army Standard allows for predictable performance, enabling shooters to focus on technique rather than ammunition variability.

The Advantages of Choosing Red Army Standard Ammunition

Opting for Red Army Standard 5.45x39mm ammunition offers several distinct advantages that make it a compelling choice for many shooters:

• Exceptional Affordability: The most significant benefit is the cost per round. Steel-cased, Berdan-primed ammunition like Red Army Standard consistently offers a more budget-friendly option compared to brass-cased, Boxer-primed alternatives, especially when purchasing in bulk cases. This allows for more frequent training and less concern about ammunition expenditure.
• Reliable Performance: Despite misconceptions, modern steel-cased ammunition is highly reliable. Red Army Standard rounds are manufactured to ensure consistent ignition and cycling, providing a dependable shooting experience for the AK-74 platform, which is known for its ruggedness and ability to cycle a wide range of ammunition types.
• Optimal for Training: With its FMJ bullet type and cost-effective nature, this ammunition is perfectly suited for high-volume training. Shooters can practice extensively without fear of rapidly depleting their ammunition budget, allowing for significant skill development.
• Non-Corrosive Primers: This is a crucial modern convenience. Unlike older surplus ammunition, Red Army Standard is loaded with non-corrosive primers, which means you don't have to perform immediate, extensive cleaning after every range trip. Standard firearm cleaning procedures are sufficient.
• Widespread Availability at DEGuns: One of the most important factors for any shooter is consistent access to their preferred ammunition. Red Army Standard products, including this 5.45x39mm 60 gr FMJ variant (UPC: 814950011558 for a 20-round box, case UPCs vary), are readily available from reputable retailers like DEGuns. This ensures you can easily acquire the quantities you need, whether it's a few boxes for a casual range day or a full case for extensive training.

Addressing Common Questions and Misconceptions

Shooters new to 5.45x39mm or steel-cased ammunition often have legitimate questions. Let's tackle some frequently asked inquiries:

• "Is steel-cased ammunition bad for my rifle?" This is a common concern. Modern firearms, especially those designed to run steel-cased ammunition like the AK platform, are built to handle it. While steel cases are harder than brass, quality ammunition manufacturing processes ensure they won't excessively wear your chamber or extractor. The key is to keep your firearm properly maintained and lubricated. For rifles that are explicitly designed for 5.56/.223 and not the AK-74, always check the manufacturer's recommendations. For an AK-74, steel case is its native diet.
• "Can I reload Red Army Standard 5.45x39mm ammunition?" Generally, no. As mentioned, these rounds are Berdan-primed, which requires specialized tools and primers that are not commonly available to most civilian reloaders in the West. If reloading is a priority, you would need to seek out Boxer-primed, brass-cased 5.45x39mm ammunition.
• "Is this ammunition corrosive?" No, Red Army Standard 5.45x39mm uses modern, non-corrosive primers. This means you do not need to worry about the corrosive salts that were common in older surplus ammunition, which would necessitate immediate and rigorous cleaning with hot soapy water after firing. Standard cleaning practices are sufficient for this ammunition.
• "What's the best use for FMJ ammunition?" Full Metal Jacket ammunition is primarily designed for target shooting, plinking, and training. Its design promotes reliable feeding and consistent ballistics on paper or steel targets. While it can be used for other purposes, its terminal performance is generally less suitable for hunting or self-defense compared to expanding bullet types.
• "How does 5.45x39mm compare to 5.56/.223?" Both are small-caliber, high-velocity rifle rounds. The 5.45x39mm often boasts a slightly milder recoil impulse due to its slightly lighter bullet and unique bullet design, which can make it feel smoother to shoot. Ballistically, they are quite similar in trajectory and effective range, making 5.45x39mm an excellent alternative for those who prefer the AK platform or want a unique shooting experience.

Performance Specifications and Ballistics

Understanding the typical performance data for Red Army Standard 5.45x39mm 60 gr FMJ (AM3372) can help predict its behavior on the range. These figures are generally derived from a standard 16-inch barrel, though actual results may vary depending on your specific firearm's barrel length, condition, and atmospheric conditions.

• Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 2936 feet per second (fps). This high velocity contributes to the relatively flat trajectory of the 5.45x39mm round, making it accurate over various distances.
• Muzzle Energy: Approximately 1146 foot-pounds (ft-lbs). This energy level is characteristic of a service rifle cartridge, providing ample power for target incapacitation and consistent steel target engagement. The combination of velocity and energy makes it effective for recreational shooting and training without excessive recoil.

Caring for Your Firearm When Using Steel-Cased Ammunition

While modern steel-cased ammunition is safe for your firearm, a few best practices can help maintain its longevity:

• Regular Cleaning: As with any ammunition, consistent cleaning after shooting sessions is crucial. While Red Army Standard is non-corrosive, gunpowder residue can still build up. Pay attention to the chamber, bore, and bolt face.
• Proper Lubrication: Keep moving parts of your firearm, especially the bolt carrier group and recoil spring, well-lubricated. This helps ensure smooth cycling and reduces wear, particularly important when using ammunition with steel casings that might have slightly different friction characteristics than brass.
• Chamber Check: Occasionally, ensure your chamber is clean and free of lacquer buildup if you shoot exclusively steel-cased ammunition. This is rarely an issue with quality modern steel-case ammo but is a good practice to prevent potential extraction problems over thousands of rounds.

Your Source for Red Army Standard Ammunition: DEGuns

When you're ready to enhance your shooting experience with reliable and economical 5.45x39mm ammunition, look no further than DEGuns.com. DEGuns stocks a wide variety of ammunition, including the Red Army Standard AM3372 5.45x39mm 60 gr FMJ rounds, making it convenient to purchase exactly what you need. Whether you're buying a single 20-round box for a quick trip to the range or investing in a 50-box case to keep your AK-74 running for extended periods, DEGuns provides a trusted platform for your ammunition needs. Focus on your training and enjoyment, knowing your supply of quality Red Army Standard ammunition is just a click away.

Purchase your Red Army Standard 5.45x39mm 60 gr FMJ ammunition today at DEGuns and experience the perfect blend of performance, reliability, and affordability for your AK-74.

Product Specifications

Feature	Detail
Caliber	5.45x39mm
Bullet Weight	60 Grain (gr)
Bullet Type	Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
Primer Type	Berdan, Non-Corrosive
Casing Material	Steel (Lacquer Coated)
Muzzle Velocity	~2936 fps (Feet Per Second)
Muzzle Energy	~1146 ft-lbs (Foot-Pounds)
UPC (20-rd Box)	814950011558

Packaging Details

Unit	Quantity
Box	20 Rounds
Case (Bulk)	50 Boxes
Total Case	1000 Rounds