The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - Would it be silly to start handloading 7.62x39?

chris in va · March 5, 2013, 05:15 PM

I tried with my Saiga conversion.

Couple of problems. Finding reloadable brass is a real PITA. Once you do collect a couple hundred and reload them, the semiauto's chuck the brass into next week and the Easter egg hunt begins.

Then there's the bullet fit issue. AK pattern guns use a 311 bullet. 308 can be used but accuracy is so-so.

I sold my Saiga and picked up an AR due to the reloading issue. I didn't want to be reliant on the whims of ammo manufacturer's supply chains, especially foreign sources. 223 is abundant and easily scrounged. I have a 5-gallon bucket of the stuff.

I still have a CZ Carbine in x39 and use cast lead in it.

March 5, 2013, 05:15 PM	#3
chris in va Senior Member Join Date: December 26, 2004 Location: Louisville KY Posts: 11,718	I tried with my Saiga conversion. Couple of problems. Finding reloadable brass is a real PITA. Once you do collect a couple hundred and reload them, the semiauto's chuck the brass into next week and the Easter egg hunt begins. Then there's the bullet fit issue. AK pattern guns use a 311 bullet. 308 can be used but accuracy is so-so. I sold my Saiga and picked up an AR due to the reloading issue. I didn't want to be reliant on the whims of ammo manufacturer's supply chains, especially foreign sources. 223 is abundant and easily scrounged. I have a 5-gallon bucket of the stuff. I still have a CZ Carbine in x39 and use cast lead in it.