confusion

[nub]

Maybe someone else can help me with my decision... Or give me a little more information before I move further on this build.

I have a 5.56 & a 7.62, which rifle(round) would be a better for long distances ? Any suggestions?

[markm]

Define "long distances". With a good rifle and the right ammo, you can get out to 700 and 800 yards with .223. We've shot .223 out to 1000 yards, but it's a little wind sensative. 69 gr SMKs seem to handle transonic fairly well.

[Vexmaster]

7.62 hands down.

[markm]

Need more info. What are the rifles? What ammo do you plan to use. ALL things equal, a 7.62 might be optimal. But if you're only shooting to 500 yards or so, you can shoot more for the dollar by going with the .223.

[nub]

No further than 700m, and I didn't specify the round correctly its 7.62x39mm or 5.56. I have extra parts laying around and I have a few carbines already want something a bit different... So I want to slap together another AR.... But curious which round will perform better at longer distances.

[markm]

Perform how?.. I mean... obviously a 175 Sierra matchking in 308 will do better in wind at 700m... and it's going to hit the target with more energy.

At 700m, if you can get the 30 cal dialed in.... that's your round. The 69gr SMK is about transonic at 700m in most rifles. So it'll get there too.

[John Hwang]

As markm pointed out, there are many things to consider. However as a rule of thumb, 308 will have more punch at longer distances. Most people start out with the AR15 and as a second or 3 rifle, they move to 308. If the majority of shooting is long distance (like hunting), 308 is the consideration. You also need to consider ammo costs into the mix. Good luck.

[5pins]

He clarified his question by saying the 7.62X39 not the .308.

The 5.56 will be better hands down.

[tpelle]

I agree that the 5.56 will be better, and but I'm not sure about 700 meters. Depends if you are shooting at paper, or........... Something else.

[Vexmaster]

I retort. I obviously need to learn how to read... I completely misread the "7.62x39" for "7.62x51". 5.56 for the win!

[markm]

I missed that too. And I completely agree. .223 is the clear choice.

[Eric]

7.62x39 isn't even in the running.

[nub]

So I'm seeing 556 is the obvious answer. How is the 7.62x39mm as a carbine or a middy?

[Paulo_Santos]

So I'm seeing 556 is the obvious answer. How is the 7.62x39mm as a carbine or a middy?

The 7.62x39 is a good round for under 200 yards. Obviously, it can kill past that, but it is ideal under 200. The good thing about the 7.62x39 is the cheap ammo.