When it comes to selecting the best ammunition for .300 Blackout, there are several factors to consider. This versatile cartridge is celebrated for its impressive stopping power and adaptability. In this article, we've meticulously curated the top 5 best .300 Blackout self-defense rounds. Our picks are based on in-depth research, rigorous testing, including pressure testing, velocity, accuracy, expansion, reliability, durability, and real-world performance.
Our selection process considered several key factors:
- Pressure:The Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers' Institute (SAAMI) sets standards for pressure and velocity testing. This ensures that ammunition operates within safe limits.
- Velocity:The speed of the bullet as it leaves the barrel is measured to ensure it meets the specifications for its intended use.
- Accuracy:Grouping and Performance in real-world shooting scenarios.
- Expansion:This is particularly important for hunting and self-defense ammunition to ensure it performs effectively.
- Reliability:Tested in various firearms to ensure it feeds and ejects reliably, especially in semi-automatic and automatic weapons.
- Durability:Ammunition is tested for durability under various storage conditions to ensure it remains effective over time.
- Functionality:For military ammunition, comprehensive testing includes electronic pressure, velocity, and action time (EPVAT) to ensure both safety and functionality.
Top 5 300 Blackout Options For Any Occasion:
- Hornady SUB-X 190-grain .300 AAC Blackout - Best Overall
- Barnes Vor-Tx .300 AAC Blackout 120gr JHP FB - Best for Hunting
- Barnes TAC-TX 110-grain - Best for Home Defense
- Federal American Eagle Full Metal Jacket Boat-Tail .300 AAC Blackout 150 Grain - Best for Target Shooting
- Magtech .300 BLK 123gr FMJ - Best Budget Value
Best Overall: Hornady Sub-X 190-grain .300 AAC Blackout
The Hornady SUB-X 190-grain 300 Blackout ammo is the best overall choice due to its exceptional performance at subsonic velocities. It features the patented Flex Tip® technology, which ensures reliable expansion even at low speeds, making it ideal for suppressed shooting. This load for CQB is contracted as the TAP round and used for DOD and Special Warfare units requirements. This is the civilian option to have similar performance used by our elite military units.
Hornady 300 BLK 190gr Sub-X 20/200
Pros
- Subsonic Performance: Designed for optimal performance below the speed of sound, making it ideal for suppressed shooting.
- Reliable Expansion:The Flex Tip® technology ensures reliable expansion even at low velocities.
- Deep Penetration:Meets FBI protocol for terminal ballistic test requirements, providing deep penetration.
- Low Recoil:Offers low recoil, making it comfortable to shoot.
- Quiet Operation:When used with a suppressor, it produces minimal noise, ideal for tactical and home defense situations.
Cons
- Cost:This premium ammunition can be more expensive compared to other options.
- Availability: It might be harder to find in some areas due to its specialized nature.
- Limited Use: While excellent for suppressed shooting, it may not be the best choice for supersonic applications.
The Hornady SUB-X 190-grain .300 AAC Blackout ammo is the ultimate choice for 300 Blackout enthusiasts due to its outstanding subsonic performance. Its Flex Tip® technology ensures dependable expansion at low velocities, offering deep penetration that meets FBI protocol standards. This makes it highly effective for both tactical operations and home defense. The ammo's low recoil and quiet operation, especially with a suppressor, provide a comfortable and precise shooting experience.
Best for Hunting: Barnes Vor-Tx .300 AAC Blackout 120gr JHP FB
The Barnes Vor-Tx .300 AAC Blackout 120gr JHP FB is an outstanding choice for hunting applications due to its controlled, double-diameter expansion and high weight retention. The all-copper construction ensures the bullet maintains its weight and penetrates deeply, providing a quick and humane kill. Its excellent ballistic coefficient and sectional density optimize terminal performance, making it effective for hunting varmints and predators. It is known for its accuracy and consistency, ensuring reliable performance in the field.
Barnes 300blk 120gr JHP FB
Pros
- High Penetration:The all-copper bullet technology ensures deep penetration and excellent weight retention.
- Double-Diameter Expansion:Provides controlled, double-diameter expansion for maximum damage.
- Excellent Accuracy:Manufactured to precise tolerances for consistent accuracy.
- Barrier Performance:Performs well when shot through barriers, making it suitable for tactical and home defense applications.
- Non-Corrosive:Features non-corrosive, reloadable brass cases.
Cons
- Higher Cost:Generally more expensive compared to other ammunition options.
- Availability:May not be as readily available in all locations.
- Recoil:Some users might find the recoil higher compared to other rounds.
The Barnes Vor-Tx .300 AAC Blackout 120gr JHP FB stands out due to its reliable expansion, deep penetration, substantial kinetic energy, consistent performance, quality construction, and versatility. It's a robust choice for hunting, offering the stopping power and reliability needed to take down game animals effectively.
Best for Home Defense: Barnes TAC-TX 110-grain
The Barnes TAC-TX 110-grain is an excellent choice for home defense due to its controlled, double-diameter expansion and full functionality at close range. This all-copper bullet is designed to track straighter through barriers and retain its weight better than lead-core bullets, ensuring reliable performance. Its superior expansion and penetration provide effective stopping power, while minimizing the risk of over-penetration, which is crucial in a home defense scenario.
Barnes Vor-tx 300blk 110gr Ttsx FB
Pros
- Controlled Expansion:The bullet is designed to expand to double its diameter, ensuring maximum stopping power and energy transfer.
- Barrier Penetration:It tracks straighter through barriers and retains its weight better than lead-core bullets, providing reliable performance.
- Weight Retention:Its all-copper construction ensures high weight retention, which translates to consistent penetration.
- Accuracy: Known for its superior accuracy, the TAC-TX 110-grain round performs well in precision shooting scenarios.
- Reduced Over-Penetration:The controlled expansion minimizes the risk of over-penetration, making it safer for home defense situations.
Cons
- Cost:This premium ammunition can be more expensive compared to other self-defense rounds.
- Availability:It might be harder to find in some areas due to its specialized nature.
- Specialized Use:While excellent for self-defense, it may not be the best choice for other uses like target practice or hunting.
The Barnes TAC-TX 110-grain is the top-tier choice for home defense due to its precise, controlled expansion, which effectively maximizes stopping power while reducing the risk of over-penetration. The all-copper construction ensures exceptional weight retention and consistent performance through barriers. With its outstanding accuracy and dependable expansion, it provides the confidence you need to protect your home in critical situations.
Best for Target Shooting: Federal Premium Full Metal Jacket Boat-Tail .300 Blackout 150gr
Federal Premium Full Metal Jacket Boat-Tail .300 AAC Blackout 150 Grain is a top choice for target shooting due to its consistent performance, reduced barrel fouling, versatility, cost-effectiveness, quality construction, and trusted brand reputation.
Federal American Eagle 300 AAC Blackout 150 Grain Full Metal Jacket Boat Tail
Pros
- Target Shooting:Ideal for target practice due to its consistent performance and minimal residue.
- Affordable:Generally more budget-friendly compared to other premium ammo.
- Quality Components:Features reliable brass, primers, and powder for consistent performance.
- Suppressor-Friendly: Performs well with suppressors, making it a good choice for suppressed shooting.
- Non-Corrosive:Features non-corrosive, reloadable brass cases.
Cons
- Limited Penetration:May not be the best choice for larger game due to its full metal jacket design.
- Availability:Depending on your location, it might not always be readily available.
- Recoil:Some users might find the recoil slightly higher compared to other rounds.
Federal Premium Full Metal Jacket ammunition is often more affordable than other types of ammo, making it a cost-effective option for practice and training. This allows shooters to practice more frequently without breaking the bank. Maintaining consistency with every shot, enhancing both performance and confidence for the shooter.
Best Budget Value: Magtech .300 BLK 123gr FMJ
The Magtech .300 BLK 123gr FMJ is a budget-friendly option, priced between $0.39 and $0.55 per round. Despite its low cost, it delivers consistent performance, making it suitable for both range practice and plinking. The 123-grain FMJ projectile is ideal for shorter barrels, and its widespread availability and reliable functionality make it a dependable choice for the .300 BLK enthusiast.
Magtech 300blk 123gr FMJ
Pros
- Affordability:One of the most budget-friendly options on the market, making it ideal for high-volume shooters.
- Consistent Performance:Delivers reliable velocities and accuracy, ensuring a good shooting experience.
- Lightweight Projectile:The 123gr FMJ is well-suited for shorter barrels and suppressed firearms, providing balanced performance.
- Wide Availability: Easy to find in bulk, allowing shooters to save money by purchasing larger quantities.
- Reliable Cycling:Functions well in various firearms with minimal cycling issues, enhancing its dependability.
Cons
- Limited Hunting Use:The FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) bullet design is less effective for hunting purposes compared to expanding bullets like hollow points or soft points.
- Standard Ballistics:While reliable, it may not offer the same high-end ballistics as more premium ammunition.
Overall, the design of the Magtech .300 BLK 123gr FMJ is focused on delivering reliable, consistent performance at an affordable price, making it a great choice for budget-conscious shooters.
Conclusion
When selecting the optimal .300 Blackout ammunition, numerous factors must be considered to ensure peak performance in critical scenarios. The ideal choice can vary based on individual needs, whether prioritizing barrier penetration, maximum stopping power, or cost-effectiveness.
Extensive research, testing, and evaluation have identified this selection of top-performing .300 Blackout rounds that consistently exhibit exceptional reliability, stopping power, and terminal ballistics. These rounds have proven themselves in real-world applications and offer superior performance for self-defense purposes.
By carefully considering your individual needs and priorities, you can select the best .300 Blackout ammunition for your specific application. Don't compromise on quality or performance when it comes to your hunting and self-defense ammunition. Invest in the best and ensure you're prepared for any situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
The .300 Blackout (BLK) is a rifle cartridge developed by Advanced Armament Corporation (AAC) for use in the AR-15 platform. It is designed to provide similar ballistics to the 7.62×39mm Soviet cartridge but in a .30 caliber, making it versatile for both suppressed and unsuppressed shooting.
The effective range of the .300 Blackout varies based on the bullet weight and barrel length, but it generally ranges from 100 to 300 yards for most applications.
Yes, .300 Blackout can be used in a standard AR-15 with a compatible upper receiver and barrel. However, ensure that the lower receiver is properly marked and configured for .300 Blackout to avoid any legal or functional issues.
The best bullet weight for .300 Blackout depends on the intended use:
- For self-defense: 125-150 grain bullets are commonly used.
- For hunting: 150-220 grain bullets are preferred for larger game.
Best Ammo Deals, Training, & Accessories
Subscribe to ProArmory sales and deals email.
