Re: Odd Project, looking for input
Look, I'd be clearly interested to see somebody bring a decent 5,45x39 project to fruition. To me it makes as much sense as any other project.
As far as cheap ammo is concerned, the ammo provides primed cases, pull-down powder, and projectiles if disassembled. Simply redeveloping a load that is matched to the barrel using such components could be a fruitful endeavor. Or take it further with a 'Mexican match' approach using better quality projectiles and propellant.
For individuals who enjoy the 'thrill if the chase', such a project could be nearly ideal.
I'm no longer one of those folks, but I throw no stones.
If memory serves, the 5,45x39 was a Soviet effort to replicate .223 performance on platforms that were already in place to employ the x39 cartridges. The 5,45 would therefore be something of a Soviet-oriented no-brainer.
The issue, for me, is whether either the 5.56 or the 5,45 are really good solutions for their applications. I think they are only partially good solutions, and that more robust chamberings might serve their original purposes better. But that particular observation brings nothing useful to this discussion.
Here in the US, private enterprise has grasped the .223 and developed it widely for additional applications. I think that in Eastern Europe, such an approach is less possible, less likely, and less attractive in practical terms. So as a development project, I think the .222/.223 provides better avenues to support custom development.
FYI, Savage does produce one rifle chambered in 7.62x39, their Scout Rifle. So a bolt head with the proper cartridge base diameter for .22PPC and 6mmPPC does exist. Please note that the 7.62x39's base diameter is 11.35mm, and the 5,45x39's base diameter is 10mm.
Greg
