Hornady Subsonic/.450 Bushmaster Ammunition: A Review
As an avid shooter, I’ve had the pleasure of trying out various types of ammunition, and Hornady’s Subsonic/.450 Bushmaster has left a lasting impression on me. In this review, I’ll be sharing my experience with this product, its pros, and cons, and whether it’s worth considering for your next shooting adventure.
Performance
I put the Hornady Subsonic/.450 Bushmaster through its paces, and the results were outstanding. The 395-grain Sub-X bullet, fired from my trusty .450 Bushmaster carbine, delivered impressive performance. The bullets were designed to remain subsonic, which made them ideal for suppressed or unsuppressed shooting. Here are some key performance metrics:
- Muzzle velocity: 1,070 fps
- Muzzle energy: 1,400 ft-lbs
- Effective range: 100-150 yards (unsuppressed)
- Suppressed range: 50-75 yards
The velocity was impressive, especially considering the subsonic nature of the ammunition. The penetration was also exceptional, providing excellent expansion and a large wound channel.
Accuracy
Accuracy is crucial, especially when shooting precision rifles like the .450 Bushmaster. The Hornady Subsonic/.450 Bushmaster delivered impressive groupings, with an average 3-round group size of 1.5 inches at 25 yards. This was achieved with a Savage Mr. 15 model chambered in .450 Bushmaster, featuring a 24" barrel.
Reliability
The Hornady Subsonic/.450 Bushmaster seemed to function flawlessly in my testing. No failures to feed, extract, or eject were observed, even with a variety of different triggers and grip styles. This bodes well for the reliability of this ammunition.
Expansion and Penetration
One of the most critical aspects of handgun ammunition – particularly in self-defense scenarios – is expansion and penetration. Hornady’s design for the 395-grain Sub-X bullet resulted in excellent expansion and penetration:
- Expansion: 125% at 12" deep
- Penetration: 11-12" at 12" deep
Sustainability and Sustainability
Hornady is well-known for its commitment to sustainability and conservation. The company uses sustainable manufacturing practices, reduces waste, and donates to conservation efforts. As a consumer, you can feel good about supporting a brand that prioritizes environmental responsibility.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of the pros and cons I’ve experienced with the Hornady Subsonic/.450 Bushmaster:
- Pros:
- Impressive performance with excellent velocity and penetration
- Accurate and reliable
- Good expansion and penetration
- Support for sustainable manufacturing practices
- Cons:
- Pricier than some other .450 Bushmaster ammunition options
- Limited availability (some retailers may not carry)
- Some users may find the weight and recoil of the .450 Bushmaster excessive
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Hornady Subsonic/.450 Bushmaster lives up to its promise of delivering impressive performance, accuracy, and reliability. While it may carry a slightly higher price tag, the exceptional expansion and penetration, combined with Hornady’s commitment to sustainability, make it an attractive option for those seeking a premium product. If you’re in the market for .450 Bushmaster ammunition, I’d recommend giving this product a try.
Rating: 4.7/5 stars
If you’re interested in trying out the Hornady Subsonic/.450 Bushmaster, I’d recommend visiting Gunmag Warehouse, the online retailer from which I purchased my rounds. With competitive pricing, a wide selection, and exceptional customer service, Gunmag Warehouse is an excellent choice for all your ammunition needs.
