The Mosin Nagant rifle primarily uses the 7.62×54mmR cartridge.
The 7.62×54mmR: A Legacy Cartridge
The 7.62×54mmR is a highly distinctive and historically significant rimmed rifle cartridge. It was originally developed by the Russian Empire and officially introduced as a service cartridge in 1891. This powerful round was specifically designed for the bolt-action Mosin-Nagant rifle, serving as its standard ammunition for decades.
Key Characteristics
- Caliber: 7.62mm (nominal bullet diameter)
- Case Length: 54mm
- Rimmed Design: The 'R' in 7.62×54mmR denotes its rimmed nature, which means the cartridge case has a protruding flange at its base. This design was common in older rifle cartridges and assists in extraction.
The 7.62×54mmR is renowned for its longevity and widespread use. It has been continuously in service for well over a century, making it one of the longest-serving military rifle cartridges in the world.
Historical Trajectory
The cartridge's journey spans significant periods of conflict and evolution:
- Late Tsarist Era: Introduced in 1891, it saw extensive use during the final years of the Russian Empire, including World War I.
- Throughout the Soviet Period: It remained the primary service cartridge for various Soviet small arms, enduring through World War II, the Cold War, and countless other conflicts.
- Present Day: Remarkably, the 7.62×54mmR continues to be used today in a variety of machine guns and some sniper rifles in Russia and other former Soviet bloc countries, highlighting its robust design and effectiveness.
Cartridge Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | 7.62×54mmR |
| Type | Rimmed Rifle Cartridge |
| Origin | Russian Empire |
| Introduced | 1891 |
| Designed For | Mosin–Nagant rifle (bolt-action) |
| Current Status | Still in active military service |
For more detailed information on this cartridge, you can refer to its dedicated page on Wikipedia.
