Hornady Subsonic .300 AAC Blackout: A Revolutionary Cartridge for Suppressed Fire
As a seasoned shooter, I was excited to get my hands on the Hornady Subsonic .300 AAC Blackout, a cartridge designed specifically for suppressed firearms. In this review, I’ll be highlighting the key features, performance, and my personal experience with this innovative cartridge.
Key Features:
• Subsonic Design: The .300 AAC Blackout is designed to operate below the speed of sound, producing a reduced sound signature and minimal kinetic energy release.
• Copper-Plated Bullets: Hornady’s XTP® Internally-Lubricated (I-Lube) coating ensures smooth feeding and reliable function, even in suppressed firearms.
• Reloadable Cases: The subsonic load is built on a reloadable case, making it easy to customize and enjoy a wide range of load options.
• 338 Caliber: The .300 AAC Blackout is a versatile caliber, suitable for a variety of applications, including hunting, self-defense, and long-range shooting.
Performance:
My experience with the Hornady Subsonic .300 AAC Blackout was impressive, with consistent accuracy and impressive kinetic energy retention. During testing, I noticed:
• Subsonic Performance: The cartridge’s subsonic design delivered a reduced sound signature, perfect for home defense, hunting, or range work without disturbing others.
• Accuracy: Despite being a subsonic load, the .300 AAC Blackout showed surprising accuracy, with groups ranging from 1.5-2 inches at 50 yards.
• Kinetic Energy: The Kinetic Energy Retention (KER) was impressive, with the .300 AAC Blackout retaining 220 ft-lbs of energy at 100 yards, making it suitable for small-game hunting and personal defense.
• Expansion: The XTP® bullet design provided excellent expansion, with a consistent, deep penetration in various target media.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
• Reliability: The Hornady Subsonic .300 AAC Blackout functioned flawlessly in my suppressed rifle, with no issues during testing.
• Accuracy: Surprisingly accurate, considering its subsonic design.
• Kinetic Energy: Impressive energy retention, making it suitable for various applications.
• Reloadable: The subsonic load is built on a reloadable case, allowing for customization and cost-effective shooting.
Cons:
• Limited Availability: As a specialized cartridge, the Hornady Subsonic .300 AAC Blackout may not be as widely available as other popular calibers.
• Specific Rifle Requirements: The .300 AAC Blackout requires a specific rifle chambered for this caliber, which may necessitate additional investment.
• Suppressor Restrictions: In some areas, legal frameworks may restrict the use of suppressed firearms and must be carefully researched before deployment.
Conclusion:
The Hornady Subsonic .300 AAC Blackout is an innovative cartridge that offers a unique combination of subsonic performance, accuracy, and kinetic energy retention. While it may have some limitations, the benefits of this cartridge make it an excellent choice for shooters seeking a versatile, reliable, and effective subsonic load. If you’re in the market for a subsonic cartridge, I highly recommend considering the Hornady Subsonic .300 AAC Blackout.
Final Thoughts:
If you’re a shooter looking to expand your capabilities with a subsonic load, the Hornady Subsonic .300 AAC Blackout is an excellent choice. With its accurate, reliable, and reloadable design, it’s an excellent investment for any serious shooter. As with any new cartridge, be sure to research local laws and regulations regarding suppressor use and ensure you’re properly trained before deploying this innovative technology.
