How to Choose the Right 300 Blackout Hunting Ammo for Your Next Hunt

When it comes to hunting, choosing the right ammunition can make all the difference in the world. Among the various calibers available, the .300 Blackout (300 blk) has gained significant popularity due to its versatility and reliability. Whether you're hunting in dense woods or open fields, the right 300 Blackout hunting ammo will ensure you have the power and accuracy needed for a successful hunt. In this article, we'll discuss the factors you need to consider when selecting the best ammo for your 300 Blackout barrel, explore the advantages of suppressors, and compare the 8.6 Blackout vs 300 Blackout.

Understanding the 300 Blackout

The 300 Blackout is a relatively new cartridge designed for both suppressed and unsuppressed use. It’s known for its excellent versatility and is capable of firing both subsonic and supersonic rounds, making it ideal for a wide range of hunting applications. The .300 Blackout is compatible with AR-15 style rifles when fitted with a 300 Blackout barrel, but it’s also used in other firearm configurations like the 8.6 Blackout bolt action rifle.

1. Consider Your Hunting Environment

The type of game you plan to hunt and the environment you’re in will play a significant role in determining the right ammunition. For instance, subsonic 300 Blackout hunting ammo works well in close-range, dense forest environments where you want to minimize noise. Subsonic ammo travels slower and produces less noise, making it ideal for hunting with a 300 blackout suppressor.

On the other hand, supersonic ammunition is better suited for long-range shots. If you’re hunting in an open field or targeting larger game, supersonic rounds provide more power and range, making them a better option for these types of hunts.

2. Determine the Bullet Type

Choosing the right bullet type is crucial for effective hunting with a 300 Blackout barrel. There are various options to consider:

• Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): Typically used for practice, FMJ rounds are not ideal for hunting as they don’t expand on impact.
• Soft Point (SP): Soft point bullets are designed to expand on impact, increasing the chances of a quick, humane kill. They are a great option for hunting medium-sized game.
• Hollow Point (HP): These rounds offer significant expansion upon impact, making them suitable for large game.
• Ballistic Tip: Ballistic tip rounds are designed for controlled expansion and deep penetration, making them excellent for both medium and large game.

Also read: Best Ammo Brands

3. Consider Bullet Weight and Velocity

In the 300 Blackout hunting ammo, the bullet weight and velocity are two factors that directly affect performance. Lighter bullets (around 110 grains) typically have higher velocity and flatter trajectories, making them ideal for varmint or small game. Heavier bullets (around 220 grains) are slower but pack more power, making them a better choice for larger game.

If you're hunting larger animals such as deer or hogs, heavier bullets are recommended as they provide deeper penetration and greater stopping power. Conversely, for smaller game like coyotes, lighter bullets may be more appropriate due to their higher velocity and flatter trajectory.

4. Suppressed vs. Unsuppressed Shooting

One of the main advantages of the 300 Blackout is its compatibility with suppressors. When using a 300 blackout suppressor, the noise produced by the shot is significantly reduced, making it easier to stay stealthy in the field. However, if you plan on using your rifle without a suppressor, you may prefer supersonic ammo for its greater velocity and range.

Read more: What is a California-Compliant AR-15 Rifle? All You Need to Know

5. 8.6 Blackout vs 300 Blackout

While the 300 Blackout is a great all-around cartridge, newer options like the 8.6 Blackout are gaining attention. The 8.6 Blackout vs 300 Blackout debate revolves around the differences in power, range, and versatility. The 8.6 Blackout is a larger round, offering greater energy and more consistent performance at longer ranges. If you're planning to hunt at extended distances or with a bolt-action rifle, the 8.6 Blackout may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a lightweight, versatile option, the 300 Blackout remains a popular choice for most hunters.

Pros of 300 Blackout Hunting Ammo

• Versatile: The 300 blk can be used for both subsonic and supersonic ammo, making it suitable for various hunting environments.
• Compact and Lightweight: It is perfect for hunters who prefer lightweight rifles, especially with the AR-15 platform.
• Suppressor-Friendly: It works well with a 300 blackout suppressor, making it ideal for stealthy hunting in populated areas or when quiet shots are needed.
• Good Performance on Medium Game: Offers reliable performance for deer, hogs, and smaller game.

Cons of 300 Blackout Hunting Ammo

• Limited Range: While versatile, the 300 blk is not as effective for long-range shooting as some other cartridges.
• Lower Power for Larger Game: Though effective for medium-sized animals, the 300 blackout may struggle with larger game at extended ranges, especially compared to more powerful rounds like the 8.6 Blackout.
• Expensive: High-quality 300 Blackout hunting ammo can be pricey, especially when compared to traditional calibers like .223 or .308.

FAQs

Q: Can I use 300 Blackout ammo in any AR-15?
A: No, you’ll need a 300 Blackout barrel specifically designed to handle the larger round. Make sure your rifle is chambered for the 300 blk to avoid damage.

Q: What’s the difference between 8.6 Blackout and 300 Blackout?
A: The 8.6 Blackout is a larger and more powerful round, offering better performance at longer ranges and with larger game. The 300 blk, however, is more versatile and well-suited for shorter-range hunts.