Best .300 Blackout Ammo: Hunting, Self Defense & Target Practice

Quick Answer

The best .300 Blackout ammo depends on your goal. For hunting, grab expanding bullets that work at your actual shooting distance. For self-defense, you need loads that feed well and perform consistently. For target practice, look for FMJ options that run reliably and group well in your rifle. We've ranked 11 top loads across all three categories, plus added simple steps to test what works in your specific setup.

Key Takeaways

• Match ammo to purpose: hunting, defense, or training.
• Subsonic runs quiet with suppressors; supersonic hits harder at distance.
• Bullet design matters more than fancy labels.
• Test for cycling, accuracy, and point of impact, especially when switching between subsonic vs supersonic or suppressed vs unsuppressed.
• Buy a small batch first before stocking up.

The first time you shoot a suppressed .300 BLK, something clicks. The soft thump feels almost unreal compared to the usual bang. But soon you notice how some loads group tighter, some cycle better, and some hit harder than expected. Your goal is not to find that one ‘perfect’ round but it is to build a small, trusted ammo lineup that works in your gun for what you actually need it to do.

What "Best .300 Blackout BLK Ammo" Actually Means

Your 3 use-cases decide everything

Let's get straight to the point: the "best" .300 Blackout ammo doesn't exist in a vacuum. What's amazing for one shooter might be totally wrong for another.

For hunting, you need ethical terminal performance at the distances you'll actually shoot. A bullet that expands well at 50 yards but fails at 150 is only "best" if you hunt up close. The .300 Blackout can take deer-sized game, but bullet selection becomes extra important because you're working with less energy than bigger rifle rounds.

For self-defense, feed and function come first. A round that jams isn't protecting anyone. After that, you need consistent performance with a bullet design suited for personal protection. The .300 BLK can be an excellent home defense option, particularly in short-barreled rifles or AR pistols.

For target practice, you want something affordable that runs clean and shoots straight in your particular setup. This is where most people spend 90% of their time with the .300 BLK anyway.

The quick subsonic vs supersonic cheat sheet

Not sure which speed class fits your needs? Here's the simple breakdown:

Subsonic loads are typically loaded around 950–1,050 fps (and below the speed of sound for your conditions) to avoid the sonic crack. You still hear the shot. But it drops a lot. Recoil also feels softer. These loads do best up close. Subsonics shine at close range. For hunting, many shooters keep subsonic shots inside about 75–100 yards depending on bullet design and impact velocity. They fit home defense and close-range hunting. Like walking instead of sprinting.

Supersonic loads fly faster. You get flatter trajectories, more energy, and better reach. They stay louder even with a suppressor. The sonic crack gives you away. Still, they bring stronger ballistics for longer shots. Good when distance matters.

Ammo choice plays a big role in firearms performance. That matters with .300 Blackout because subsonic and supersonic loads can feel like two different tools.

Top Picks at a Glance (11 Loads, Sorted by Job)

Best for Hunting

• Nosler 220gr Ballistic Tip (subsonic hunting)
• Hornady Subsonic 190gr Sub-X (subsonic expansion-focused)
• Federal Power-Shok 150gr JSP (budget-friendly hunting-style supersonic)

Best for Self Defense

• AAC 125gr Sabre Blade Black Tip (defense-leaning supersonic)
• Magtech 123gr FMJ (practice-focused supersonic)
• Hornady Black 110gr V-MAX (varmint-focused supersonic; some use it defensively, but it’s not purpose-built for barrier performance)

Best for Target Practice

• AAC 150gr FMJ (range staple)
• Winchester Super Suppressed 200gr Open Tip Range (subsonic training load)
• Sellier & Bellot 200gr FMJ Subsonic (suppressed-friendly training)

Honorable Mentions (Niche strengths)

• Fort Scott 190gr SCS TUI (lead-free + tumble-on-impact design)
• Underwood 194gr Maximum Expansion (specialized subsonic expansion)

How We Chose and Ranked These Loads

The scoring criteria

Our rankings come from analyzing expert feedback, manufacturer specs, and user reports. We looked at what matters most to shooters: feeding reliability, accuracy potential, consistency between production lots, and bullet design appropriate for intended use.

A round must first feed and cycle in most standard platforms. After that, accuracy at typical distances becomes critical. For hunting and defense loads, bullet design appropriately matched to purpose tops the list. Price and availability round out our considerations.

Ammunition selection significantly impacts overall firearms performance, with factors beyond just brand reputation playing a role in real-world effectiveness. 

The rifle setup variables that can change the winner

Your specific setup dramatically affects which ammo performs best. Barrel length (16" vs. 9"), gas system configuration, and buffer weight all impact function - especially with subsonic loads.

Twist rate becomes crucial with heavy subsonic bullets, with most modern .300 BLK barrels using 1:7 or 1:8 twist rates. Magazine design and your expected shooting distance should ultimately guide your selection.

The 11 Best .300 Blackout BLK Ammo Loads

1. Hornady BLACK .300 Blackout 110gr V-MAX

This is a fast, common supersonic load that many shooters use for general-purpose shooting and lighter hunting roles. It's a simple pick when you want flatter flight than heavy subsonics and a load that's easy to find.

The V-MAX bullet design creates dramatic expansion on impact and makes it effective for varmint hunting and defensive use. Hornady lists velocities around the mid-2,000 fps range (varies heavily by barrel length).

Many shooters choose this as their "do-it-all" load when they don't need suppressed quiet but want good performance out to 300 yards. The bullet weight is light enough to maintain good velocity even from shorter barrels.

Price: approx $20–$27 / 20-rd box (Prices vary widely by retailer, availability, and sales. Treat these as rough ranges.)

Specs

• Bullet weight: 110 gr
• Bullet type: V-MAX
• Muzzle velocity: approx 2,375 fps
• Box count: 20 rounds

Pros

• Flatter shooting than heavy subsonics
• Common and widely available
• Often groups well in many rifles

Cons

• Not quiet, even with a suppressor
• Not ideal for subsonic-only setups
• Performance depends heavily on your barrel and impact speed

2. AAC .300 Blackout 150gr FMJ

This is a straightforward range load built for reps and cost-efficiency. It's the kind of ammo you buy when the goal is practice, drills, and function testing without spending premium money.

The 150-grain weight hits a sweet spot for many .300 BLK rifles and offers good function without being too light or heavy. AAC lists it as a supersonic load (real velocity varies by barrel length).

For many shooters, this becomes the baseline load they stock up on for regular range sessions. It's not fancy, but it gets the job done without breaking the bank.

Price: approx $12–$15 / 20-rd box (Prices vary widely by retailer, availability, and sales. Treat these as rough ranges.)

Specs

• Bullet weight: 150 gr
• Bullet type: FMJ
• Muzzle velocity: approx 1,900 fps
• Box count: 20 rounds

Pros

• Affordable for .300 BLK
• Great for drills and range time
• Good for function testing

Cons

• Not ideal for hunting
• Not ideal for self-defense
• Louder than subsonic suppressed loads

3. Hornady Subsonic .300 Blackout 190gr Sub-X

This is a purpose-built subsonic load that's designed to expand at lower velocities. It's often treated as the safe "starting point" for suppressed shooters who still want terminal performance beyond FMJ.

The Sub-X bullet uses a special design to ensure expansion even at the low velocities of subsonic loads. At 1,050 fps, it stays well below the sound barrier for truly quiet suppressed shooting.

Many hunters and home defenders choose this as their go-to subsonic load because it offers better terminal performance than basic FMJ subsonic options. It's become something of a standard in the subsonic .300 BLK world.

Price: approx $23–$35 / 20-rd box (Prices vary widely by retailer, availability, and sales. Treat these as rough ranges.)

Specs

• Bullet weight: 190 gr
• Bullet type: Sub-X
• Muzzle velocity: approx 1,050 fps
• Box count: 20 rounds

Pros

• Very quiet with a suppressor
• Better terminal intent than subsonic FMJ
• Trusted mainstream load

Cons

• Costs more than range FMJ
• Drops fast at longer distances
• Some rifles may need tuning to cycle subs perfectly

4. Winchester Super Suppressed .300 Blackout 200gr Open Tip Range

This is a training-first subsonic load that's aimed at quiet range time. It's best treated like suppressed practice ammo rather than a dedicated hunting load.

The Open Tip Range bullet design offers better accuracy than standard FMJ in many rifles, but without the premium price of hunting-specific expanding bullets. At 1,060 fps, it's tuned to be quiet but still cycle in most well-set-up .300 BLK rifles.

Many shooters use this as their main suppressed practice load and saves the more expensive expanding subsonic bullets for hunting or defensive use. It strikes a good balance between cost and performance for range work.

Price: approx $17–$25 / 20-rd box (Prices vary widely by retailer, availability, and sales. Treat these as rough ranges.)

Specs

• Bullet weight: 200 gr
• Bullet type: Open Tip Range
• Muzzle velocity: approx 1,060 fps
• Box count: 20 rounds

Pros

• Quiet suppressed shooting
• Mainstream brand availability
• Solid pick for subsonic practice

Cons

• Not designed as a dedicated hunting bullet
• Subsonic limitations in trajectory and energy
• Cycling can vary by rifle setup

5. Sellier & Bellot .300 Blackout Subsonic 200gr FMJ

This is a well-known “subsonic range ammo” option. It’s a simple choice when you want quiet volume shooting. You also want to skip the high price tag that comes with expanding loads.

The 200-grain FMJ bullet brings the weight you need. That weight helps it stay subsonic with most barrel lengths. At about 1,060 fps, it sits under the sound barrier. It still has enough punch for target shooting at sane distances.

If your main goal is noise reduction with a suppressor, this load fits well. Many .300 BLK owners keep it on hand for regular range trips. Sellier & Bellot has a strong track record in Europe. You usually get consistent performance and a price that doesn’t sting.

Price: approx $16–$20 / 20-rd box (Prices vary widely by retailer, availability, and sales. Treat these as rough ranges.)

Specs

• Bullet weight: 200 gr
• Bullet type: FMJ
• Muzzle velocity: approx 1,060 fps
• Box count: 20 rounds

Pros

• Quiet with a suppressor
• Usually priced better than premium sub loads
• Good for consistent training sessions

Cons

• FMJ is not ideal for hunting
• FMJ is not ideal for self-defense
• Some setups can run dirtier with heavy subs

6. Federal Power-Shok .300 Blackout 150gr JSP

This is a classic hunting-style soft point approach. It's a sensible pick when you want a traditional bullet type from a big brand without paying boutique prices.

The Jacketed Soft Point bullet has been a hunting standard for decades. It offers controlled expansion without the complexity of newer bullet designs. At 1,900 fps, it maintains good energy for medium game hunting at common .300 BLK distances.

Many hunters choose this as their first .300 BLK hunting load because it's accessible, affordable, and has a proven track record. Federal's Power-Shok line has been serving hunters well across numerous calibers for years.

Price: approx $27–$30 / 20-rd box (Prices vary widely by retailer, availability, and sales. Treat these as rough ranges.)

Specs

• Bullet weight: 150 gr
• Bullet type: JSP (Jacketed Soft Point)
• Muzzle velocity: approx 1,900 fps
• Box count: 20 rounds

Pros

• Hunting-focused bullet type
• Big-brand consistency
• Often easier on the wallet than premium hunting loads

Cons

• Not quite like subsonic suppressed loads
• Trajectory and wind still matter a lot
• Your rifle may prefer different loads for best accuracy

7. Nosler "Suppressor Ready" .300 Blackout 220gr Ballistic Tip

This is a high-end heavy subsonic load made with hunting in mind. You pick it when you want a heavy projectile. You also want a brand that doesn’t cut corners.

The Ballistic Tip design pairs a polymer tip with a lead core and a copper jacket. That combo is built to start expansion at subsonic velocity. At 1,020 fps, it’s set up for suppressed hunting where low noise matters and the bullet still needs to do its job.

Hunters often run this as their main subsonic load. It keeps the shot quiet. It also keeps performance on target strong. And that 220-grain weight helps carry more punch than lighter subsonic picks.

Price: approx $31–$35 / 20-rd box (Prices vary widely by retailer, availability, and sales. Treat these as rough ranges.)

Specs

• Bullet weight: 220 gr
• Bullet type: Ballistic Tip
• Muzzle velocity: approx 1,020 fps
• Box count: 20 rounds

Pros

• Strong brand reputation
• Built for hunting intent
• Often consistent from lot to lot

Cons

• Expensive for range-only use
• Subsonic trajectory limits distance
• Must confirm cycling in your exact rifle

8. Magtech Tactical/Training .300 Blackout 123gr FMJ (50-round box)

This load is built for the range. It’s the kind you grab when you want a long session. Simple and steady. No promises about terminal performance.

You’re running a 123-grain FMJ bullet here. That’s light for .300 BLK. It helps keep the flight path flatter. At 2,230 fps, it stays supersonic and moves well at intermediate ranges.

For high-round-count practice, it can become your default pick. The 50-round box feels like bringing a bigger water bottle. You reload less often. You stay in the groove longer. And you can practice more without the cost creeping up too fast.

Price: approx $35–$45 / 50-rd box (Prices vary widely by retailer, availability, and sales. Treat these as rough ranges.)

Specs

• Bullet weight: 123 gr
• Bullet type: FMJ
• Muzzle velocity: approx 2,230 fps
• Box count: 50 rounds

Pros

• Great for range volume
• Convenient box size
• Often cycles well in most rifles

Cons

• Not ideal for hunting
• Not ideal for self-defense
• Louder than subsonic suppressed choices

9. Fort Scott Munitions .300 Blackout 190gr SCS TUI

This is the "different by design" option. It uses a solid copper spun concept and focuses on terminal behavior without relying on classic expansion, which also makes it appealing where lead is restricted.

The Solid Copper Spun (SCS) Tumble Upon Impact (TUI) bullet takes a unique approach to terminal ballistics. Marketed to tumble on impact rather than rely on traditional expansion. At 960 fps, it's definitely subsonic and suppressor-friendly.

Hunters in lead-restricted areas and those looking for something different often try this as an alternative to traditional expanding bullets. The solid copper construction also means 100% weight retention through barriers and into the target.

Price: approx $31–$39 / 20-rd box (Prices vary widely by retailer, availability, and sales. Treat these as rough ranges.)

Specs

• Bullet weight: 190gr
• Bullet type: SCS TUI
• Muzzle velocity: approx 960 fps
• Box count: 20 rounds

Pros

• Lead-free style design
• Unique terminal concept
• Suppressor-friendly speed class

Cons

• Pricier than subsonic FMJ
• Accuracy can vary by barrel/setup
• Not the simplest "general purpose" choice

10. Underwood .300 Blackout 194gr Maximum Expansion (solid copper)

This is a premium subsonic load built around a solid copper bullet and aggressive expansion intent. It's not cheap, but it's aimed at shooters who want subsonic quiet with serious terminal goals.

The Maximum Expansion solid copper bullet is designed to open dramatically upon impact, even at lower subsonic velocities. At 1,025 fps, it delivers good terminal performance without breaking the sound barrier.

Defense-minded shooters and hunters often select this when they want the very best terminal performance from a subsonic load and don't mind paying a premium. The solid copper construction also makes it acceptable in lead-restricted hunting areas.

Price: approx $65–$75 / 20-rd box (Prices vary widely by retailer, availability, and sales. Treat these as rough ranges.)

Specs

• Bullet weight: 194 gr
• Bullet type: Maximum Expansion (solid copper)
• Muzzle velocity: approx 1,025 fps
• Muzzle energy: approx 453 ft-lbs
• Box count: 20 rounds

Pros

• Premium terminal intent
• Solid copper option
• Strong niche use-case for suppressed setups

Cons

• Expensive
• Not ideal for high-volume practice
• Needs rifle-specific accuracy validation

11. AAC .300 Blackout 125gr Sabre Blade Black Tip

This is a supersonic, defense-leaning pick built around a bullet made to expand. It's often treated as a "primary defensive load" candidate—after you confirm function and point of impact in your rifle.

The Sabre Blade Black Tip projectile is designed for controlled expansion and weight retention. At 2,175 fps, it delivers good energy and flat trajectory for a .300 BLK load.

Home defenders often choose this load when they want good terminal performance but aren't primarily concerned with suppressed shooting. The price point is surprisingly reasonable for a defense-oriented load.

Price: approx $13–$16 / 20-rd box (Prices vary widely by retailer, availability, and sales. Treat these as rough ranges.)

Specs

• Bullet weight: 125 gr
• Bullet type: Sabre Blade Black Tip
• Muzzle velocity: approx 2,175 fps
• Box count: 20 rounds

Pros

• Good balance of speed and bullet weight
• Retail price is reasonable for a defense-style load
• Practical for rifles that prefer 125gr class ammo

Cons

• Not quiet like subsonic options
• Must confirm feeding in your mags/rifle
• Not designed as a "cheap practice" load

Picking the Right Bullet Weight and Load Type

What grain weight tends to work for each role

Picking the right bullet weight for your .300 BLK can stay simple. For target practice, midweight supersonic FMJs in the 125-150 grain range usually do the job. They run well in most rifles. They also keep costs down and still group tight.

For subsonic suppressed shooting, go heavier. Most people land in the 190-220 grain range. These bullets are built to stay stable at lower speeds. They also hold onto more energy when they move slower.

For hunting, bullet design matters more than grain weight. You want the right kind of expansion. For supersonic hunting, 110-150 grain expanding bullets are a safe lane. For subsonic hunting, use expanding subsonic bullets in the 190-220 grain range. They are made for that slower impact speed.

When subsonic is the right tool

Subsonic ammo makes sense when quiet matters most. Pair it with a good suppressor and subsonic .300 BLK gets very quiet. Quiet enough to feel dramatically softer, but it’s still smart to wear hearing protection whenever possible. That helps for suppressed training and close-range hunting under 150 yards. It can reduce blast compared to many rifle setups, which is a practical advantage indoors, but hearing protection is still strongly recommended whenever possible.

But subsonic comes with tradeoffs. The bullet drops more. It also hits with less energy as distance grows. That’s why many subsonic hunters keep shots under 100 yards.

When supersonic is the better call

Supersonic loads help when you need to reach. They fly flatter. They hit harder at distance too. If you plan to shoot past 150 yards, supersonic is usually the cleaner pick. Same goes for hunting medium game.

Even with a suppressor, supersonic loads still make a sonic crack. That’s the sound barrier doing its thing. But you get better flight and more energy on target.

How to Test Ammo in Your Rifle Before Buying Bulk

Step-by-step test plan

Testing ammo before committing to a bulk purchase saves money and frustration in the long run. Here's a simple approach:

1. Select 3 loads that match your primary use case (hunting, defense, or practice).
2. Start by confirming basic functions. Does the ammo feed from your magazines? Does it cycle the action? Does the bolt lock back on empty? If it fails here, move on.
3. Shoot groups at your actual intended distances. Don't just test at 100 yards if you'll be using it at 50 or 200.
4. Check for point of impact shifts, especially if you'll be switching between suppressed and unsuppressed shooting. Some loads can shift significantly.
5. For defensive loads, run at least 50 rounds to confirm consistent function under various conditions. Include rapid firing and magazine changes.
6. Only after thorough testing should you consider buying in bulk. A case of ammo that doesn't run well in your gun is no bargain.

Remember that .300 Blackout rifles can be finicky with certain loads, particularly subsonic ammunition. Gas system tuning, buffer weight, and even magazine choice can affect function. What works perfectly in one gun might struggle in another.

Parting Shots

After all this talk about the "best" .300 Blackout ammo, here’s what matters: you don’t need one magic load. You need a small set that covers your main jobs. It’s like keeping two shoes. One for running. One for rain.

For practice, use affordable rounds that feed well and group well in your rifle. For defense, spend more on expanding bullets that run clean in your setup. For hunting, use loads that give ethical results at the ranges you will actually shoot.

The .300 Blackout stands out because you can tune it to your goal. Use that strength on purpose. Pick the right load for the job. Then test it in your rifle, not just on paper.

Ready to move forward? Check availability and pricing for your top two choices. Test them before you buy bulk. Your rifle will run happier. Your wallet will feel it too.

.300 Blackout ammo shines in short-barrel rifles and suppressed setups, while 5.56 NATO often dominates longer-range applications. For a clearer picture of which cartridge fits different roles — and how ammo choice affects those roles — see 300 Blackout vs 5.56: Which Cartridge Wins for Versatility and Firepower.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What's the best .300 BLK ammo for a suppressor?

For the quietest setup, use quality subsonic ammunition like Hornady Subsonic 190gr Sub-X or Nosler 220gr Ballistic Tip. These stay under the sound barrier. They also aim to cycle in most .300 BLK rifles.

Will subsonic ammo cycle in every .300 BLK rifle?

No. Some rifles struggle with subsonic loads. This is common with carbine-length gas systems or heavier buffers. You may need tuning to get steady cycling. An adjustable gas block or a lighter buffer can make a big difference.

Is FMJ okay for self-defense?

Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) ammunition is not ideal for self-defense. It does not expand the way defensive ammo does. That can slow down how fast a threat stops. It can also punch through and keep traveling. Pick a defensive load with expanding bullets instead.

What's a practical hunting distance for subsonic .300 BLK?

Many hunters keep subsonic .300 BLK shots under 100 yards. A lot stay closer than that. The bullet drops more as distance grows. And the lower energy makes clean kills harder on medium game.

Do different loads change point of impact with a suppressor?

Yes. Adding a suppressor can move your point of impact. Removing it can move it again. Different loads can shift in their own way too. Confirm your zero with your chosen ammo. Do it in the same setup you plan to use.

Should I stock one load or keep a small mix?

A small mix makes sense. One load for practice. One for defense. Maybe one for hunting. You get more control that way. Just confirm function and zero with each one.

About the Author

This article was written by the Pro Armory writing team based on current research, including studies from reputable sources like the Journal of Military Science, Firearms News, and the National Shooting Sports Foundation. We also referenced trusted information from official defense publications and respected firearm authorities such as the ATF, NRA, and manufacturer manuals.

Disclaimer: This review is for education only. Laws vary by state and city and can change. Follow safe handling at all times. Read your owner's manual. Verify local rules before you buy or train.