8.6 Blackout: The radical new hunting cartridge I expected to hate

Published on February 16, 2023
Duration: 13:25

This expert analysis from Backfire delves into the 8.6 Blackout cartridge, challenging initial skepticism with empirical data. The video highlights the cartridge's revolutionary 1:3 twist rate, explaining its significant impact on terminal ballistics through extreme RPM and cavitation. It provides a detailed review of the Faxon AR-10 platform chambered in 8.6 Blackout, including accuracy assessments and a balanced discussion of pros and cons for specific hunting applications like hog and whitetail.

Quick Summary

The 8.6 Blackout cartridge stands out due to its aggressive 1:3 barrel twist rate, generating around 500,000 RPM for enhanced terminal ballistics via cavitation. It's an AR-10 equivalent to the .300 Blackout for AR-15s, offering superior subsonic performance and effective takedowns on large game, though it requires specialized ammunition and suppressors.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to 8.6 Blackout
  2. 02:45The 1:3 Twist Rate Innovation
  3. 04:32Cartridge History and Comparison
  4. 06:52Faxon AR-10 Review
  5. 08:42Pros and Cons of 8.6 Blackout
  6. 11:35Final Assessment and Use Cases

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 8.6 Blackout cartridge unique?

The 8.6 Blackout's defining feature is its extremely fast 1:3 barrel twist rate, which spins the bullet at approximately 500,000 RPM. This rapid rotation generates immense rotational energy, leading to significant cavitation and a 'blender' effect upon impact with soft tissue.

How does the 8.6 Blackout compare to other hunting cartridges?

It's often compared to the .300 Blackout's role for the AR-15, but scaled up for the AR-10 platform. While it has a higher drop than rounds like .30-06, its subsonic performance and terminal ballistics are exceptional for specific hunting scenarios like hog or whitetail.

What are the key advantages and disadvantages of the 8.6 Blackout?

Pros include excellent subsonic performance, high rotational energy, and easy AR-10 conversion. Cons are a non-flat trajectory, the need for specialized bullets (bonded/copper), and the requirement for larger .338 suppressors.

What rifle was used to test the 8.6 Blackout cartridge?

The test rifle featured in the video was a Faxon Firearms AR-10, specifically noted for its quality barrel and overall build. Accuracy was measured at approximately 1.5 to 1.75 MOA at 100 yards.

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