AK 9×39: Unveiling the Ballistic Prowess and Tactical Applications of the Russian Cartridge

The AK 9×39 cartridge is a Russian subsonic, bottlenecked rifle cartridge. Developed in the late 1980s by TsNIITochMash, it was specifically designed for suppressed firearms used by special operations units. Its primary purpose is to provide significant stopping power at short to medium ranges while maintaining a low sound signature. Understanding the AK 9×39 necessitates delving into its design, performance characteristics, and the specific firearms it chambers.

The Genesis of the 9x39mm Cartridge

The AK 9×39‘s development was driven by a need for a cartridge that could effectively neutralize targets wearing body armor and operate silently. The Soviet Union sought a round that offered a substantial improvement over existing subsonic cartridges, particularly in terms of range and penetration. This led to the creation of the 9x39mm, built around a heavy, slow-moving projectile. The AK 9×39 filled a critical niche.

Design and Specifications

The AK 9×39 cartridge is based on the 7.62x39mm case, necked up to accommodate a 9mm bullet. This modification allows for a heavier projectile, typically weighing around 250 to 260 grains. The bullet is typically a steel core projectile encased in a lead jacket, providing excellent penetration capabilities. The subsonic velocity (around 980 feet per second) ensures that the bullet remains below the speed of sound, minimizing the sonic boom and making suppressed fire more effective. Key features include:

• Bullet Diameter: 9.3 mm (0.366 in)
• Neck Diameter: 10.0 mm (0.394 in)
• Base Diameter: 11.2 mm (0.441 in)
• Case Length: 39 mm (1.535 in)
• Overall Length: 56 mm (2.205 in)
• Cartridge Weight: 21 g (0.74 oz)

Ballistic Performance

While the AK 9×39 is a subsonic round, it delivers impressive terminal ballistics at close to medium ranges. The heavy bullet retains its energy well, providing significant stopping power. It’s designed to reliably penetrate body armor, making it a formidable choice against protected targets. The effective range is typically around 300-400 meters, beyond which the bullet’s trajectory becomes significantly affected by gravity. The AK 9×39 offers a distinct advantage in urban environments and close-quarters combat where longer ranges are less common.

Firearms Chambered in 9x39mm

Several specialized firearms have been developed to utilize the AK 9×39 cartridge. These weapons are typically designed for covert operations and are often equipped with suppressors to maximize their stealth capabilities. Notable examples include:

VSS Vintorez

The VSS Vintorez (Special Sniper Rifle) is perhaps the most well-known firearm chambered in AK 9×39. It’s an integrally suppressed sniper rifle designed for silent operations. The VSS is highly accurate and effective at ranges up to 400 meters. Its quiet operation and armor-piercing capabilities make it a favorite among special forces units.

AS Val

The AS Val (Special Automatic Rifle) is another integrally suppressed weapon that uses the AK 9×39 cartridge. Unlike the VSS, the AS Val is a fully automatic rifle, providing a higher rate of fire for situations where rapid engagement is necessary. It shares many design features with the VSS, including its excellent suppression and armor penetration capabilities. The AS Val offers a balance of firepower and stealth, making it suitable for a variety of tactical scenarios.

SR-3 Vikhr

The SR-3 Vikhr (Special Rifle, 3rd design) is a compact assault rifle chambered in AK 9×39. It was developed as a more concealable alternative to the AS Val, sacrificing some of the latter’s suppression capabilities for a smaller size. The SR-3 is still capable of suppressed fire, but its primary advantage lies in its compactness and maneuverability. This makes it ideal for close-quarters combat and operations in confined spaces. The AK 9×39 cartridge ensures the SR-3 Vikhr packs a punch despite its small size.

9A-91

The 9A-91 is a compact assault rifle developed in Russia. While it can be chambered in different calibers, including AK 9×39, its primary function is to provide a small, easily concealable weapon with adequate firepower for urban combat and law enforcement scenarios. Its simple design and relatively low cost make it an attractive option for forces needing a reliable and discreet firearm.

Tactical Applications

The AK 9×39 cartridge and the firearms that chamber it are primarily used by special operations forces, intelligence agencies, and law enforcement units that require stealth and stopping power. Common applications include:

• Covert Operations: The low sound signature of the AK 9×39 makes it ideal for covert operations where minimizing noise is critical.
• VIP Protection: The armor-piercing capabilities of the cartridge provide added protection against threats wearing body armor.
• Hostage Rescue: The accuracy and stopping power of AK 9×39 weapons make them effective in hostage rescue situations where precise shots are necessary.
• Urban Warfare: The compact size and maneuverability of weapons like the SR-3 Vikhr make them well-suited for urban combat.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Like any cartridge, the AK 9×39 has its own set of advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages:

• Excellent Stopping Power: The heavy bullet delivers significant energy on impact.
• Armor Penetration: The steel-core projectile is capable of penetrating body armor.
• Low Sound Signature: The subsonic velocity minimizes the sonic boom.
• Accuracy: Weapons chambered in AK 9×39 are known for their accuracy at short to medium ranges.

Disadvantages:

• Limited Range: The subsonic velocity limits the effective range of the cartridge.
• Trajectory: The heavy bullet has a significant drop at longer ranges.
• Availability: The AK 9×39 is not as widely available as more common cartridges like 5.56x45mm or 7.62x39mm.
• Specialized Weapons: Requires specific firearms designed for the cartridge, limiting flexibility.

The Future of the 9x39mm Cartridge

While the AK 9×39 is a niche cartridge, it remains a valuable asset for specialized units that require stealth and stopping power. Its unique combination of characteristics ensures its continued use in a variety of tactical scenarios. As technology evolves, there may be further developments in AK 9×39 ammunition and firearms, potentially improving its range and performance. The AK 9×39 is likely to remain a relevant cartridge for special operations forces for the foreseeable future. [See also: Modern Small Arms Ammunition] [See also: Suppressed Weapon Systems]

Conclusion

The AK 9×39 is a specialized cartridge designed for silent operations and effective target neutralization at short to medium ranges. Its heavy bullet, subsonic velocity, and armor-piercing capabilities make it a formidable choice for special operations forces and other specialized units. While it has limitations in terms of range and availability, the AK 9×39 remains a valuable tool for those who require stealth and stopping power in equal measure. Understanding its design, performance, and applications provides valuable insight into the world of specialized small arms. The AK 9×39 stands as a testament to the ingenuity of Russian arms designers in addressing specific operational needs.