The 300 Blackout has reached cult status among rifle shooters. This chunky little baby brings a 30-caliber punch to the dance and has good performance in relatively close range for rifles. Where it really shines is when it is run through a suppressed rifle. While the 5.56 round is popular in home defense circles, the 300 Blackout is worthy of consideration.
300 Blackout – A Home Defense Option
The defensive ballistics of the 300 Blackout are impressive. The Hornady Black 300 Blackout 208 gr A‑MAX has a muzzle velocity of 1020 fps and 480 ft/lb at the muzzle. The 208 gr A-MAX bullet is optimized for excellent performance. While overpenetration with any rifle rounds in an indoor setting is possible, the 300 Blackout has slightly less ability to do so once it enters a target. The Hornady rounds are but one at our fingertips.
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The brutal truth is that rifle rounds reign supreme in personal protection because of the additional cavitation the rounds cause when they enter the target. This cavitation enhances the round’s stopping power. This is why we hunt deer and elk with a rifle as opposed to our handy Glock 17. Yes, I know. Someone will now be furiously typing about the time they got a deer with a 9mm. Is it possible? Yes, it is. Is it common? No, it is not. Your best chance of stopping a mammal of any kind is with a rifle round.
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AR Platform
Platform-wise, I suggest either an AR-style SBR or a braced pistol. And while we’re at it, I recommend that you get a suppressor on it as well. Of course, you will need a light and an optic to finish out the build. This setup is significantly easier to use in tight spaces, and the suppressor helps protect you from the deafening blast we experience when we discharge a rifle in a hallway.
There is a term used in ballistic circles that applies here perfectly. Ballistic overmatch is essentially bringing a bigger gun to the fight. The end result is a quicker end to a fight. Is the 300 Blackout the perfect round? No, but it has excellent performance characteristics in close quarters. Fired through a well-made and reliable rifle, this round can provide the punch you need.
For more information, visit Hornady.
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