What Size Bullet is 300 Blackout?
The 300 Blackout cartridge, also known as 7.62x35mm, is a revolutionary cartridge that has gained significant popularity among hunters, range enthusiasts, and military operatives. The question on every shooter’s mind is "What size bullet is 300 Blackout?" As we dive into the technical aspects of this cartridge, we’ll explore the range of bullet sizes available in 300 Blackout.
Overview of 300 Blackout
The 300 Blackout cartridge is a unique round that fire a 30-caliber bullet (.308 inch/7.62mm). It was designed to allow shooters to fire a centerfire cartridge in a common AR-15 platform with a minimum of modifications, making it an attractive choice for hunters, law enforcement, and military personnel.
What Size Bullet are Available in 300 Blackout?
The primary advantage of the 300 Blackout cartridge is the variety of bullet sizes it offers. Here are the most common bullet sizes and their respective weights:
- – 110 gr (bullets for varmint control and precision shooting)
- – 120 gr ( bullets for general hunting and match shooting)
- – 140 gr (bullets for larger game hunting and supersonic performance)
- – 150 gr (bullets for large game hunting, such as elk and deer)
- – 165 gr (bullets for extended-range hunting and precision shooting)
- – 175 gr (bullets for suppressor use and reduced penetration)
- – 190 gr (bullets for massive game hunting and extreme penetrating power)
- – 240 gr (bullets for heavy-duty hunting and suppression)
Comparison of Available Bullet Sizes
Here is a comparison of the above bullet sizes, highlighting key differences:
| Bullet Weight | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) | Muzzle RPM | Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 110 gr | 2400 | 1,500 | 15,000 | Out to 300 yards for varmint control |
| 120 gr | 2,100 | 2,200 | 10,000 | General hunting and match shooting up to 400 yards |
| 140 gr | 2,350 | 3,400 | 8,000 | Larger game hunting and supersonic performance to 500 yards |
| 150 gr | 2,500 | 4,000 | 6,000 | Large game hunting, such as elk and deer, up to 600 yards |
| 165 gr | 2,800 | 5,000 | 4,000 | Extended-range hunting and precision shooting up to 1,000 yards |
| 175 gr | 2,500 | 4,000 | 3,000 | Suppressor use and reduced penetration |
| 190 gr | 2,300 | 5,500 | 2,000 | Massive game hunting and extreme penetrating power, up to 800 yards |
| 240 gr | 2,000 | 7,000 | 1,200 | Heavy-duty hunting and suppression to 500 yards |
The table highlights the differences between the available bullet sizes. The bullet weight, muzzle velocity, and muzzle energy indicate the level of penetration, expansion, and range expectations. The Muzzle RPM reflects the amount of recoil. Range estimates vary depending on the type of hunting (varmint, general hunting, or heavy-duty suppression).
What Size Bullet is Right for You?
When selecting a 300 Blackout bullet size, consider the following:
- Range and Speed: For shorter ranges or varmint control, lightweight bullets (110-125 gr) may be best. For longer ranges (up to 1,000 yards) or demanding hunting scenarios, heavier bullets (150-165 gr) are more suitable.
- Expansion and Energy: Bullets with high muzzle energy (140 gr and above) are intended for larger game hunting.
- Recoil Control: If you’re particularly sensitive to recoil, use a bullet with a slightly lower Muzzle RPM rating.
- Supressor Use: For quieter shooting, bullets with specific designs and weights (170-175 gr) offer reduced noise levels.
Choosing the right bullet size largely depends on your specific application, experience, and individual preferences. As a basic rule, heavier bullets yield more penetration, while lighter bullets offer improved accuracy for shorter ranges.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the 300 Blackout cartridge offers an impressive variety of bullet sizes, with each option tailored to its specific use case. Regardless of the bullet size selected, the 300 Blackout remains a versatile round, capable of delivering satisfactory performance across multiple applications, from hunting to precision shooting. When selecting a 300 Blackout bullet size, carefully consider the type of hunting, range limitations, and your personal requirements to ensure optimal performance for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any 308-caliber bullet in 300 Blackout?
No, due to the modified case design, not all.308-caliber bullets fit properly in a 300 Blackout chamber.
Does 300 Blackout performance vary with bullet size and weight?
,Yes, it does. Heavier bullets generally offer more penetration, while lighter bullets yield improved accuracy for shorter ranges.
Conclusion
In summary, the 300 Blackout cartridge is an innovative development that has expanded the limits of AR-15 reliability and performance. With such a range of bullet options available, understanding the features and applications of each one is crucial for optimal efficiency and effectiveness.
