What is Blackout Ammo?
Blackout ammo, also known as 300 BLK (5.56x35mm), is a type of ammunition designed specifically for use in AR-15 rifles and other firearms chambered for the 5.56x45mm NATO caliber. The term "Blackout" refers to the cartridge’s ability to achieve a "blackout" or complete suppression of gunfire, making it ideal for use in tactical and close-quarters battle (CQB) situations.
What sets Blackout ammo apart?
So, what makes Blackout ammo special? Here are some key features that set it apart from other types of ammunition:
- Subsonic performance: Blackout ammo is designed to function at subsonic speeds, which means it does not produce a supersonic crack or report when fired. This makes it perfect for use in urban environments, where loud noises can be a liability.
- Suppressor-friendly: The subsonic nature of Blackout ammo allows it to be used in conjunction with suppressors (silencers), which greatly reduce the noise and recoil of the firearm.
- Increased effectiveness: By using a heavier, heavier-than-typical bullet and a specialized propellant, Blackout ammo achieves significantly increased effectiveness against soft tissue targets, such as body armor and unarmored individuals.
- Aerodynamic design: The bullet design of Blackout ammo is optimized for minimum wind deflection and maximum penetration, making it accurate and effective at longer ranges.
History of Blackout ammo
The 300 BLK cartridge was first developed in the mid-2000s by a team of engineers at Advanced Armament Corporation (AAC), a leading manufacturer of suppressors and accessories. The goal was to create a cartridge that would be specifically designed for use with suppressors, rather than simply adapting existing rifle cartridges for use with them.
Types of Blackout ammo
There are several types of Blackout ammo available, each designed for specific applications and firearms. Here are some common types:
- FMJ (Full Metal Jacket): This type of Blackout ammo features a full metal jacket around the bullet, which helps to maintain accuracy and prevent core separation.
- TP (Total Penetration): This type of Blackout ammo features a proprietary bullet design that is designed to penetrate deeply and reliably, making it ideal for use against armored targets.
- HP (Hollow Point): This type of Blackout ammo features a hollow point design that is designed to expand rapidly upon impact, creating a larger wound channel and increased stopping power.
Using Blackout ammo
So, how do you use Blackout ammo effectively? Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Choose the right gun: Blackout ammo requires a firearm specifically chambered for the 300 BLK cartridge. Make sure your rifle is compatible and properly configured for use with this type of ammunition.
- Use the right load: Choose a Blackout ammo load that is designed for your specific use case. For example, if you’re using your rifle for CQB, you may want to opt for a load with a heavier bullet and more energy.
- Adjust your aim: Due to the subsonic nature of Blackout ammo, the trajectory of the bullet will be slightly different than a standard 5.56mm NATO cartridge. Adjust your aim accordingly to compensate for this difference.
- Practice, practice, practice: As with any type of ammunition, practice is key to mastering the use of Blackout ammo. Make sure to sight in your rifle and become familiar with the performance of the cartridge.
Comparing Blackout ammo to other types of ammunition
So, how does Blackout ammo compare to other types of ammunition? Here are some key differences:
| Ammunition Type | Trajectory | Suppressor Compatibility | Effectiveness | Noise Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.56x45mm NATO | Supersonic | Good | Moderate | Loud |
| 300 BLK (Blackout) | Subsonic | Excellent | High | Quiet |
As you can see, Blackout ammo offers some significant advantages over other types of ammunition, particularly when it comes to suppressor compatibility and effectiveness against soft tissue targets.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Blackout ammo is a highly specialized type of ammunition that is designed specifically for use in tactical and CQB situations. Its subsonic performance, suppressor-friendliness, and increased effectiveness make it a popular choice among military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your CQB game or simply want a more effective and quieter cartridge, Blackout ammo is definitely worth considering.
