.223 vs. 7.62x39mm for self defense????

[IZZY]

Quote:
Very disappointingly low level of lethality when compared to other options.
For the record, the 5.56 isn't all that spectacular with FMJ ammunition either. Recall our little incident in Somalia.

With JHP or JSP ammo, the 7.62x39 is more than adequate for personal defense.

In fact, the ice pick effect in that particular cartridge is pretty much limited to the steel core stuff and the original M43 ball round. The M67 ball round and those patterned after it, such as the Wolf black box 122 gr FMJ, are much better performers designed to tumble much sooner--typically within the first four or five inches.
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BINGO!

The newer Russian 7.62 (usually) has the 5.45 style AIR POCKET.

Better feeding than JHP as well.

To answer the origional question:

Prefferably, you should shoot the AR and AK platform beofre you buy, and find out which one you preffer.

IF this is not possible, see which one "fits" you better in the shop, which one you can aquire the sights better with etc.

Either will work well in light civilian environments.