We researched and compared the most popular 300 Blackout bullets for reloading, evaluating manufacturer specifications, published industry standards, and aggregated owner feedback. Whether you need subsonic hunting rounds or supersonic target loads, this guide breaks down the strengths and weaknesses of each option.
Our evaluation focuses on accuracy, expansion, weight consistency, and overall value. We also consider safety considerations like bullet setback and proper seating depth. Here are our findings.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Hornady 300 Blackout 208 Grain A-MAX Top Pick for Subsonic Accuracy 208gr, boat-tail, polymer tip, 0.308 diameter |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Sierra 300 Blackout 220 Grain MatchKing Best for Precision Match Shooting 220gr, hollow point boat-tail, 0.308 diameter |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Berry's Manufacturing 300 Blackout 220 Grain Plated Best Value Plated Bullet 220gr, plated flat point, 0.308 diameter |
8.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Nosler 300 Blackout 220 Grain Custom Competition Runner Up for Match Accuracy 220gr, hollow point boat-tail, 0.308 diameter |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Speer 300 Blackout 125 Grain TNT Best Supersonic Varmint Bullet 125gr, hollow point, 0.308 diameter |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Lehigh Defense 300 Blackout 194 Grain Maximum Expansion Best for Self-Defense and Hunting 194gr, solid copper, hollow point, 0.308 diameter |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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X-Treme Bullets 300 Blackout 220 Grain Plated Budget Plated Option 220gr, plated round nose, 0.308 diameter |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Hornady 300 Blackout 208 Grain A-MAX: Top Pick for Subsonic Accuracy
In our evaluation, the Hornady 208 A-MAX stands out for subsonic accuracy. Owner feedback consistently praises its tight groupings and consistent ballistic coefficient. The boat-tail and polymer tip contribute to reliable feeding in AR-15 platforms, and the bullet’s design minimizes drag, making it a favorite for precision shooters. However, we found that at subsonic speeds, expansion can be inconsistent on soft targets, so hunters seeking reliable terminal performance may want to consider a bonded or soft-point alternative.
This bullet is best for target shooters and those who prioritize accuracy over expansion. If you need a hunting round for deer or hogs, skip this one and look at the 220 grain Sierra MatchKing or a bonded option. But for punching paper or ringing steel, the A-MAX delivers exceptional performance.
- Excellent subsonic accuracy with consistent BC of 0.648
- Polymer tip aids in reliable feeding and expansion
- Boat-tail design reduces drag for flatter trajectory
Pros: Exceptional long-range precision for subsonic loads; Uniform weight and dimensions reduce reloading variability
Cons: Not designed for rapid expansion on game at subsonic velocities
2. Sierra 300 Blackout 220 Grain MatchKing: Best for Precision Match Shooting
The Sierra 220 MatchKing is a legend in the precision shooting community. Our research shows it consistently delivers sub-MOA accuracy when loaded properly. The hollow point is not designed for expansion at subsonic speeds, but at supersonic velocities it can expand reliably. Owner feedback highlights its uniform jacket thickness and consistent base-to-ogive dimensions, which reduce seating depth variations. However, we note that the open tip can be susceptible to damage during handling, so careful loading is advised.
This bullet is ideal for competitive shooters and those who demand the highest accuracy. If you are on a tight budget or need a bullet for hunting, consider a less expensive option like the Berry’s plated bullets or a soft-point design. The MatchKing’s price point reflects its premium performance.
- Renowned for sub-MOA accuracy in subsonic loads
- Hollow point design aids in consistent expansion at higher velocities
- Boat-tail base improves ballistic coefficient and downrange performance
Pros: Industry benchmark for match-grade accuracy; Excellent weight consistency lot-to-lot
Cons: Higher cost per bullet compared to plated or cast options
3. Berry's Manufacturing 300 Blackout 220 Grain Plated: Best Value Plated Bullet
Berry’s plated bullets are a go-to for budget-conscious reloaders. We compared their performance to jacketed options and found they offer good accuracy for plinking and practice, especially at subsonic velocities. The plating is thick enough to handle moderate velocities, but we caution against pushing them past 1500 fps to avoid plating separation. Owner feedback indicates they feed reliably in most AR-15 platforms, though some report occasional setback if seating pressure is too high.
If you are looking for match-grade accuracy or need a hunting bullet, this is not the right choice. However, for high-volume range sessions where cost matters, Berry’s 220 grain plated bullets are an excellent value. They are also a good option for new reloaders due to their forgiving nature.
- Affordable plated construction reduces cost without sacrificing accuracy
- Flat point design aids in reliable feeding in magazines
- Good for plinking and practice loads
Pros: Very economical for high-volume reloading; Plating reduces lead fouling in barrels
Cons: Not suitable for high-velocity supersonic loads (max 1500 fps); Accuracy is adequate but not match-grade
4. Nosler 300 Blackout 220 Grain Custom Competition: Runner Up for Match Accuracy
Nosler’s Custom Competition line is designed for accuracy, and the 220 grain 300 Blackout version delivers. In our evaluation, it performed nearly on par with the Sierra MatchKing but at a slightly lower price point. Owner feedback praises its uniform jacket thickness and consistent weight, which translate to small groups. The hollow point is not intended for hunting, but at supersonic speeds it can expand. We did note that some bullets arrive with slightly bent tips due to packaging, so inspect before loading.
This bullet is a strong alternative to the Sierra MatchKing for those who want similar performance without the premium price. However, if you need a bullet specifically for hunting, consider a bonded or partition design. For target shooting, the Nosler Custom Competition is a top contender.
- Consistent jacket thickness and weight for tight groups
- Hollow point cavity aids in expansion at higher velocities
- Boat-tail design enhances ballistic coefficient
Pros: Excellent quality control and lot-to-lot consistency; Good balance of accuracy and cost for match shooters
Cons: Some users report occasional tip deformation in shipping
5. Speer 300 Blackout 125 Grain TNT: Best Supersonic Varmint Bullet
The Speer 125 TNT is built for varmint hunting with supersonic 300 Blackout loads. We researched its performance and found it delivers explosive expansion on groundhogs, coyotes, and other small pests. The thin jacket and hollow point design ensure rapid energy transfer. However, we caution that this bullet is not intended for subsonic velocities, as it may not expand and can keyhole. Owner feedback indicates good accuracy in 1:8 twist barrels, but some report jacket fragmentation at extreme velocities.
If you are hunting varmints or want a fun plinking round with dramatic effect, the TNT is a great choice. But for target shooting or subsonic use, look elsewhere. Also, because of its light weight, it may not be ideal for suppressed subsonic loads.
- Designed for explosive expansion on varmints at supersonic velocities
- Light weight allows higher velocities and flatter trajectories
- Good accuracy for varmint hunting and plinking
Pros: Rapid, dramatic expansion on small game; Affordable price for high-volume supersonic loads
Cons: Not suitable for subsonic use; may not stabilize; Jacket can separate at very high velocities (over 2400 fps)
6. Lehigh Defense 300 Blackout 194 Grain Maximum Expansion: Best for Self-Defense and Hunting
Lehigh Defense’s Maximum Expansion bullet is a premium choice for those who need reliable performance on game or for self-defense. We evaluated its design and owner feedback indicates it expands consistently even at subsonic speeds, thanks to its large hollow cavity and solid copper construction. The bullet retains nearly all its weight, penetrating deeply. However, the cost is significantly higher than traditional jacketed bullets, and the longer length can cause feeding issues in some magazines if not seated correctly.
This bullet is best for hunters who want a single bullet for both subsonic and supersonic loads, or for those who need lead-free ammunition. For target practice or high-volume shooting, the expense is hard to justify. Consider it a specialized tool for critical applications.
- Solid copper construction ensures deep penetration and weight retention
- Controlled expansion even at subsonic velocities
- Lead-free for use in ranges that restrict lead
Pros: Excellent terminal performance on game and threats; Environmentally friendly lead-free design
Cons: High cost per bullet; May require different load data due to longer length
7. X-Treme Bullets 300 Blackout 220 Grain Plated: Budget Plated Option
X-Treme Bullets offers among the most affordable options for 300 Blackout reloading. In our research, we found that while the price is attractive, consistency suffers. Owner feedback reports occasional variations in weight and diameter, which can lead to flyers and pressure inconsistencies. The plating is thin, so we recommend keeping velocities below 1400 fps to avoid separation. For casual plinking and practice, these bullets work, but for any precision work, we suggest stepping up to Berry’s or a jacketed option.
If you are on a tight budget and just want to throw lead downrange, these are fine. But if you care about accuracy or need reliable performance, skip them. They are also not suitable for hunting or self-defense due to inconsistent expansion and potential plating issues.
- Very low cost per bullet for high-volume reloading
- Round nose profile feeds smoothly in most actions
- Suitable for subsonic plinking loads
Pros: Extremely budget-friendly; Good for beginners learning to reload
Cons: Inconsistent weight and diameter can affect accuracy; Plating may peel at velocities above 1400 fps
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best 300 Blackout bullet for subsonic reloading?
Based on our evaluation, the Hornady 208 A-MAX and Sierra 220 MatchKing are top choices for subsonic accuracy. The A-MAX offers excellent ballistic coefficient and consistent feeding, while the MatchKing provides unmatched precision. Both are widely used by competitive shooters and have strong owner feedback.
Can I use 308 bullets for 300 Blackout reloading?
In general, no. 300 Blackout bullets are typically 0.308 inches in diameter, but they are designed for specific velocities and barrel twists. Using bullets meant for 308 Winchester may not stabilize or may cause pressure issues. Always use bullets marketed for 300 Blackout or follow load data from reputable sources.
What is the difference between plated and jacketed bullets for 300 Blackout?
Plated bullets have a thin copper layer electroplated onto a lead core, making them cheaper but limited to lower velocities (usually under 1500 fps). Jacketed bullets have a thicker copper or gilding metal jacket, allowing higher velocities and better expansion. For supersonic loads, jacketed is recommended; for subsonic plinking, plated can be cost-effective.
How important is bullet weight consistency for accuracy?
Weight consistency is critical for precision reloading. Variations of even a few grains can cause vertical stringing and inconsistent pressure. Match-grade bullets like Sierra and Nosler have tight weight tolerances, while budget plated bullets may vary more. For best accuracy, we recommend weighing each bullet or using premium brands.
What twist rate is best for 300 Blackout bullets?
Most 300 Blackout barrels have a 1:7 or 1:8 twist rate. Heavier bullets (200-220 grains) stabilize well in 1:7 twists, while lighter bullets (125-150 grains) work in both. For subsonic loads with heavy bullets, a 1:7 twist is preferable. Always check manufacturer recommendations for your specific barrel.
Our Verdict
After extensive research and comparison, our top pick for the best 300 Blackout bullet for reloading is the Sierra 220 MatchKing for its exceptional accuracy and consistency, especially in subsonic loads. For those seeking a more affordable option without sacrificing too much performance, the Hornady 208 A-MAX is a close runner-up. Both offer excellent value for their intended use.
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