if you hand load?

6.8 but i like 6.5 grendel (20" barrel) even more for handloading

IF you WANT to handload for that rifle, 6.8 or 6.5G.

But, I handload and STILL built a 7.62x39 AR. Cheap and decent ammo that I don't have to load with limited time. So far I like it alot, real hog smacker.

I'd be interested in how you've got the "hog smacker" set up. I bought a Sig R556xi-762 last year (mainly for political reasons) and haven't bought anything to put on it, but would like to rig it for a quick truck/hog gun. Any help appreciated.

I would like to know how the 7.62x39 works in the AR figuration. Heard they were jamming but not certain why.

A 1-4, 1-6, or 2-7 scope would seem like all the optic you would ever need. I actually have a 1-6 on my M&P 10 that works out just fine.

Id go 7.62x39 regardless whether or not you are handloading. Cheap ammo (right now) and plenty of people making it (right now). Id buy it cheap and stack it deep.

I got that covered.

I would expect overall better accuracy out of the 6.8. If you just want to burn ammo, go 7.62x39.

Another 7.62X39 fan here; Ruger Mini-30, Savage 10FCM, and Zastava Mini Mauser. I cast my own bullets and reload. I had a lot of youth hunters use the cartridge over the years and they sold me on its effectiveness on our deer and hogs.

My Mini-30 is set up with a Scout mount, Weaver Lever-Lok rings, and their K4 Classic Scout scope. The mount allows the use of a tactical sling and light, I use this setup to still hunt hogs at night on my ranch.







Use the rifle when bringing coyotes and bobcats to call. Really dumps them hard.



My Mini shoots the Tula 154-grain PSP like a laser so I "crated" up ammo to have a bunch on hand. I shoot the cast for my normal use.

The Savage 10FCM is the most accurate rifle I own. Great deer and hog getter.



The little Zastava is cool hunting rifle. Real classic, slick look.



Howa has a new Mini-Action configured in three different barrels; 22" standard, 20" light weight, and 20" heavy. It is is fed by a 10 round magazine and will probably join my these.

Cool rifles Ranch Dog. And a great looking place, by the way.

Here's mine. I mounted a Vortex 3x10x50 in a Nikon mount. Versatile scope. I keep it dialed down for riding around, but the extra magnification is nice for target shooting or longer stand shots. I like to put my shots at the base of the ear for piggies. Not sure it would qualify as a "quick" optic, but it works for my needs. I had a 1.5x7 on a previous rifle. It was nice to go both eyes open while walking around, but I found myself always wanting a bit more magnification.

Here's the rifle. Her name is Nora Jones (yes there is a story to that). Below is a boar that messed up during spring turkey season.

It takes a little extra care to make the 7.62x39 run reliably in an AR configuration. Biggest key is dedicated 7.62x39 magazines. You can't simply stuff rounds in a .223 mag and expect it to run well. I have had good luck with ASC mags. Next, some rifles may require a longer firing pin to fully ignite the primers. Not all of them need it (mine did not) but for those that do they are only about $6. You also need good trigger springs. But, you can find nice, crisp triggers which break clean but still hit hard. Finally, make sure you get a strong bolt in your BCG. Due to the larger case head size, and thus reduced material on the bolt, the steel needs to be stronger to last.

Knock on wood, my 7.62x39 has been very reliable, especially for the relatively low $ I have in it.

I'm a 6.8 person. Got two and love how they handle and take hogs, dogs, cats, etc.

If you handload, 6.8.

The x39 does have cheaper ammo. Won't be as accurate, neither will the AK platform. Not sure on how much better a good AR in x39 will be. Not experience there.

They both will kill. If you handload, look at the prices and availability of components. 6.8 is readily available at Academny now. You can buy the SSTs and they are good hog medicine. You can also buy the AE FMJs and get your brass fix after plinking.

Good luck.

I keep waiting for the 90gr gold dots to come back on the market. Apparently Federal hasn't had any lots to be decommisioned lately, but if they do any time soon I'll be stocking up.

I've already got a bunch of 90gr varmint HP, but those gold dots and devastating on game.

Thanks for the info. That's one big ol' boar. (And one crazy turkey/pig hunter.)