[[{“value”:”
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to follow and signup for notifications!
Designed for superior suppressed performance, the .300 Blackout provides shooters with a larger, heavier .30-caliber projectile in a compact package compatible with a standard-size AR-15 rifle. This addressed many of the limitations of the 5.56 NATO in close-quarters combat. The cartridge functions with standard AR-15 magazines and bolts, and it only requires a barrel swap to convert your AR rifle. Because of this, many shooters will keep a dedicated .300 Blk upper receiver on hand to easily change between calibers.
.300 Blackout Background
Development for the .300 Blackout cartridge began in 2009, and it was officially approved by the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI) at the beginning of 2011. The goal was to create the ideal cartridge for a suppressed, short-barreled rifle, specifically utilizing the AR-15 platform.
Often referred to as .300 AAC (Advanced Armament Corporation) after the originating company, the cartridge offers a good blend of power and shootability for effective performance in short to mid-range engagements.
5.56 NATO vs. .300 Blackout
Both the 5.56 NATO and .300 Blackout use the same case. However, the 5.56 NATO utilizes a .224-inch diameter projectile, which is noticeably smaller than the .300 Blackout’s .308-inch bullet.
At close ranges, .300 Blk offers superior ballistics and higher muzzle energy, whereas 5.56 produces higher velocities and less drop, as well as improved performance at distances past 300 yards. Additionally, .300 Blackout delivers retained terminal performance with short barrels (especially between 8 to 11 inches), and it offers close to a 90 percent increase in frontal area.
The main determining factors that will affect your decision between the two will likely be your intended engagement distance and the overall cost of ammunition. .300 Blackout ammo can typically be twice as much as comparable 5.56, making volume training much more difficult. However, you may decide that the benefits of the .300 Blk easily justify the increase in cost.
Today, the .300 Blk has excelled in hunting, defensive, and competitive shooting applications, with a wide variety of manufacturers offering ammunition tailored to specific uses.
.300 Blk Ballistics
The .300 Blackout is a necked-up 5.56 casing incorporating the same .308-inch bullet diameter as the .308 Winchester. It achieves full powder burn with SBRs and works well with both subsonic and supersonic loadings.
Grain Weights
.300 Blackout is commonly available in bullet weights ranging from 110 to 220 grains. Lighter 110 to 130-grain loads are popular for hunting, as they exhibit higher velocities, faster expansion, and good penetration. This can be useful for defensive purposes as well.
147 to 150-grain loads offer a good balance and are widely available at an affordable price, making them a solid choice for target practice and plinking. Heavier 190 to 220-grain loads are engineered for optimal sound reduction for suppressed shooting. The report isn’t as loud, and there is generally less felt recoil, which also lends itself to home defense use, even if you’re not running a suppressor.
Velocity, Energy, Trajectory
110-grain rounds range between 2,250 and 2,400 fps and from 1,200 to 1,400 ft/lbs from rifles with 12 to 16-inch barrels. 220-grain loads produce around 1,000 fps muzzle velocity and muzzle energy ranging from 480 to 550 ft/lbs.
With a 100-yard zero, supersonic loads drop an average of 6 to 7 inches at 200 yards and 23 to 25 inches at 300 yards. Subsonic loads are much more susceptible to drop, experiencing 30 to 35 inches at 200 yards and over 100 inches at 300 yards.
Effective Range
Supersonic rounds are effective out to 500 yards, while subsonic loads are best used within 200 yards. Both will still experience ample drop, and this will need to be factored in for the best accuracy, but subsonic loads will become ballistically ineffective at longer ranges.
Recoil
Subsonic .300 Blackout produces moderately light felt recoil, especially when paired with a suppressor. It’s often described as a dull thud. This allows many shooters to achieve excellent accuracy and fast follow-up shots with their .300 Blk rifles. Recoil increases in supersonic loads, but it is still similar to the report of a standard .223/5.56 AR-15, which amounts to a gentle shove.
Penetration and Expansion
The penetration and expansion characteristics of .300 Blackout largely depend on whether supersonic or subsonic ammunition is being used. Supersonic loads yield rapid expansion upon impact, resulting in an increased diameter of around twice their original size. These loads also demonstrate 16 to 20+ inches of penetration in ballistic gel and are good at defeating intermediate barriers like glass or drywall.
Subsonic loads require specialized expanding projectiles for proper deformation. Otherwise, they risk overpenetrating soft targets without creating a wide wound channel. These rounds will generally result in 15 to 18 inches of penetration, allowing them to dump all of their energy inside the target.
| Cartridge | Bullet Weights (Grain) | Velocity Range (FPS) | Energy (Ft/lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| .300 Blackout | 110-220 | 1,000-2,400 | 500-1,400 |
| 5.56 NATO | 35-90 | 2,400-4,000 | 1,100-1,400 |
| 7.62x39mm | 120-154 | 2,100-2,450 | 1,450-1,600 |
| .308 Winchester | 125-200 | 2,500-3,100 | 2,400-2,800 |
Hunting with .300 Blackout
Given the effective range of the cartridge, hunting with .300 Blackout needs to be kept within 200 yards for an ethical kill. The round can competently take deer-sized game or smaller with proper shot placement.
Given its excellent performance in a compact, AR-style rifle, .300 Blk is popular for hog hunters shooting suppressed at night. Easy handling, fast follow-up shots, and exceptional noise reduction are the enemies of swine. Supersonic loads are ideal, but with proper expanding ammunition, subsonic loads work as well. Higher velocity ammo will also help keep the bullet path more consistent with less drop.
Top Loads
1. Nosler Varmageddon 110-grain FB Tipped
Nosler’s Varmageddon ammo features a proprietary polymer-tipped bullet engineered to deliver consistent velocities and exceptional terminal performance on varmints at all practical ranges.
The high-velocity load offers minimal drop within the 200-yard threshold, and it provides just under 1,200 ft/lbs of muzzle energy. The bullet’s special lead-alloy core combines with the copper-alloy jacket to violently expand upon impact, while the low-drag flat base design provides exceptional accuracy.
| Distance (Yards) | Velocity (FPS) | Energy (Ft/lbs) | Trajectory (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muzzle | 2,200 | 1,182 | -1.5 |
| 100 | 1,930 | 909 | 0 |
| 200 | 1,681 | 690 | -7.9 |
| 300 | 1,460 | 521 | -28.2 |
| 400 | 1,273 | 396 | -64.9 |
| 500 | 1,130 | 312 | -123 |
Nosler Varmageddon .300 Blackout Ammo 110gr FB Tipped 20 Rounds
(1)
2. Federal Power-Shok 150-grain JSP
Federal Power-Shok ammo is built to deliver devastating penetration and uniform expansion for quick, clean kills on a variety of game. Designed around a hard-hitting jacketed soft-point bullet, this ammo utilizes a 150-grain projectile for improved performance on larger animals like deer or hog.
Additionally, the traditional lead-core design provides excellent accuracy at a price you can’t beat. At just over 1,200 ft/lbs of energy at the muzzle, it packs a punch.
| Distance (Yards) | Velocity (FPS) | Energy (Ft/lbs) | Trajectory (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muzzle | 1,900 | 1,202 | Unavailable |
| 100 | 1,685 | 946 | 0 |
| 200 | 1,490 | 739 | -10.8 |
| 300 | 1,320 | 580 | -37.3 |
| 400 | 1,181 | 465 | -62.4 |
| 500 | 1,079 | 388 | -128.7 |
3. Barnes VOR-TX 120-grain TAC-TX BT
The Barnes TAC-TX projectile features a deep nose cavity and polymer tip that work together to cause devastating expansion for a humane kill on a large selection of game. Further, the copper construction helps maximize penetration and weight retention for improved terminal performance. Designed for varmint hunting, the round exhibits a flat trajectory and high velocity for consistent accuracy on fast-moving targets.
| Distance (Yards) | Velocity (FPS) | Energy (Ft/lbs) | Trajectory (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muzzle | 2,100 | 1,175 | Unavailable |
| 100 | 1,887 | 949 | 0 |
| 200 | 1,688 | 760 | -2.3 |
| 300 | 1,507 | 605 | -26.9 |
| 400 | 1,347 | 484 | -61.8 |
| 500 | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable |
Barnes VOR-TX Rifle .300 Blackout Ammo 120gr TAC-TX BT 20 Rounds
(7)
.300 Blackout for Self-Defense
With manageable recoil, high-capacity mags, and potent close-range terminal performance, .300 Blackout shines in self-defense roles. The fast-burning powder achieves maximum velocity in short barrels, allowing for an incredibly maneuverable firearm.
When this is paired with a suppressor, shooters can defend their homes while protecting against permanent hearing damage. Heavier bullet options deliver high energy transfer at close range without the risk of overpenetration.
Top Loads
1. Hornady Custom 135-grain FlexTip
Hornady Custom ammo is a performance-enhanced centerfire rifle cartridge specifically engineered for defensive shooting applications. The FlexTip projectile is designed to pass through thick clothing and other soft barriers for deep penetration, devastating expansion, and superior stopping power. Select brass casings ensure optimal reliability with smooth feeding and consistent ejection shot after shot.
| Distance (Yards) | Velocity (FPS) | Energy (Ft/lbs) | Trajectory (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muzzle | 2,085 | 1,303 | -1.5 |
| 100 | 1,811 | 983 | 4.6 |
| 200 | 1,564 | 733 | 0 |
| 300 | 1,350 | 546 | -18.9 |
| 400 | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable |
| 500 | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable |
2. Hornady Subsonic 190-grain Sub-X
Hornady’s Subsonic ammo is engineered for optimal performance with suppressed rifles. Its FlexTip XTP bullets utilize long grooves in the jacket and a flat profile to offer reliable expansion at subsonic velocities, and the low-velocity propellants deliver ultra-quiet performance. Further, clean-burning powders prevent fouling and carbon buildup to help keep your rifle running longer.
| Distance (Yards) | Velocity (FPS) | Energy (Ft/lbs) | Trajectory (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muzzle | 1,050 | 465 | -1.5 |
| 100 | 998 | 420 | 0 |
| 200 | 955 | 384 | -33.4 |
| 300 | 918 | 355 | -104.6 |
| 400 | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable |
| 500 | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable |
Competition Use
.300 Blackout is an effective choice for close-range tactical and multigun competitions where targets are typically within 200 yards. The manageable recoil impulse allows for fast follow-up shots and rapid target engagement, and the high-capacity magazines ensure you have sufficient firepower on hand. Heavy .300 Blk bullets often meet Major power factor requirements to earn more points in scoring systems such as USPSA Multigun, providing an edge over rounds like .223 Remington.
While .300 Blackout is not designed for target shooting, it is accurate enough. For precision work, stick to lightweight, high-velocity loads to attain the best results. You’ll still be limited in your effective range but can achieve good consistency.
To help offset the cost of factory ammunition, many serious target and competition shooters end up handloading their own rounds. This also allows them to tailor the load for the best results with their specific rifle.
Top Loads
1. Barnes Precision Match 220-grain OTM BT
Crafted for match-grade accuracy, Barnes Precision Match ammo boasts an open-tip, boat-tail bullet that offers improved long-range accuracy and excellent shot-to-shot consistency. The jacketed lead core and clean-burning powders reduce fouling, keeping you shooting longer between cleaning sessions. Polished brass casings ensure smooth, jam-free feeding for unmatched reliability, even in high-stress shooting scenarios.
| Distance (Yards) | Velocity (FPS) | Energy (Ft/lbs) | Trajectory (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muzzle | 995 | 484 | Unavailable |
| 100 | 964 | 454 | 0 |
| 200 | 936 | 428 | -34.9 |
| 300 | 911 | 406 | -109.4 |
| 400 | 888 | 386 | -225.8 |
| 500 | 867 | 367 | -386.3 |
Barnes Precision Match .300 Blackout Subsonic Ammo 220gr OTM BT 20 Rounds
(7)
2. Nosler Match Grade 220-grain HPBT
Nosler Match Grade .300 Blackout Subsonic ammo is a competition-ready target round featuring a heavy jacket profile and boat-tail base design that delivers flatter trajectories and enhanced accuracy.
Additionally, the bullet’s hollow point provides a small meplat — the diameter of the opening of hollow points or the blunt end of cast bullets — which makes for reduced drag and improved aerodynamic efficiency.
| Distance (Yards) | Velocity (FPS) | Energy (Ft/lbs) | Trajectory (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muzzle | 1,020 | 508 | -1.5 |
| 100 | 989 | 478 | 0 |
| 200 | 962 | 452 | -34 |
| 300 | 937 | 429 | -106 |
| 400 | 915 | 408 | -217 |
| 500 | 894 | 390 | -370 |
Nosler Match Grade .300 Blackout Subsonic Ammo 220gr HPBT 20 Rounds
3. Hornady American Gunner 125-grain HP
Designed for all-around performance in hunting, self-defense, and target shooting applications, Hornady’s American Gunner is a high-performance, low-cost option for volume shooters. The match-grade hollow point bullets provide excellent versatility and superior ballistics across a range of different rifles, making it a great load to stockpile. Made in the USA with premium components, it’s no wonder American Gunner is trusted by new and experienced shooters across the country.
| Distance (Yards) | Velocity (FPS) | Energy (Ft/lbs) | Trajectory (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muzzle | 2,175 | 1,313 | -1.5 |
| 100 | 1,932 | 1,036 | 4 |
| 200 | 1,708 | 810 | 0 |
| 300 | 1,505 | 609 | -15.9 |
| 400 | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable |
| 500 | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable |
Hornady American Gunner .300 Blackout Ammo 125gr HP Match 50 Rounds
(11)
Final Thoughts: .300 Blackout
Within its effective range, .300 AAC Blackout is one hell of a cartridge. From hunting to self-defense, and even fast-action target shooting, it performs in league with the best.
Ammo selection is important, but with quality options in both the supersonic and subsonic categories, it’s not hard to find the perfect load for your shooting needs. If you haven’t tried this high-quality and effective round, you’re certainly missing out.
Have you tried the .300 Blackout yet? What do you use it for? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
“}]]
