Can You Hunt With Subsonic Ammo

Published on May 15, 2026
Duration: 6:29

This "Smithbusters" episode from Brownells investigates the effectiveness of subsonic ammunition for hunting. Hosts Steven and Caleb test Hornady's 250-grain Sub-X .350 Legend rounds against ballistic gel at 25 yards. They compare its performance to a full-power load and conclude that properly designed subsonic ammunition, like the Sub-X, can reliably expand and provide adequate penetration for hunting medium game like deer, even at slower velocities.

Quick Summary

Subsonic ammunition can be effective for hunting deer if designed for terminal ballistics at lower velocities. Tests with Hornady's 250-grain Sub-X .350 Legend rounds showed reliable expansion and adequate penetration through ballistic gel, indicating suitability for hunting applications.

Chapters

  1. 00:09Introduction: Subsonic Ammo for Hunting?
  2. 00:35Testing .350 Legend Subsonic Ammo
  3. 00:45Hornady 250gr Sub-X Details
  4. 01:14Ballistic Gel Test Setup
  5. 02:06Testing a Full-Power Handload
  6. 02:35Subsonic Shot Fired
  7. 02:56Subsonic Performance Analysis
  8. 03:35Bullet Expansion and Wound Channel
  9. 04:05Supersonic Handload Test
  10. 04:38Supersonic Performance Analysis
  11. 05:05Conclusion: Subsonic Hunting Viability
  12. 05:35Comparison to .357 Magnum Rifle
  13. 05:49Smithbusters: Myth Busted
  14. 06:04Viewer Engagement & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

Can subsonic ammunition be used effectively for hunting deer?

Yes, subsonic ammunition can be effective for hunting deer, provided it is designed for terminal ballistics at lower velocities. Tests with Hornady's 250-grain Sub-X .350 Legend rounds showed reliable expansion and adequate penetration through ballistic gel, indicating suitability for hunting.

What makes subsonic hunting ammunition effective?

Effective subsonic hunting ammunition typically features heavier bullet weights and specialized construction, such as specific jacket materials and designs, to ensure reliable expansion and penetration at velocities below the speed of sound. This allows for a significant wound channel without the need for high speeds.

How does subsonic ammunition perform compared to standard hunting loads?

When comparing properly designed subsonic ammunition to standard hunting loads, the subsonic rounds can achieve comparable or even superior terminal ballistics. Tests show that heavier subsonic bullets can expand reliably and penetrate deeply, similar to or better than some standard loads, especially in calibers like the .350 Legend.

What are the benefits of using subsonic ammunition with a suppressor for hunting?

Using subsonic ammunition with a suppressor for hunting offers reduced noise and recoil, making for a more pleasant shooting experience and potentially improving follow-up shots. However, firearms may require tuning, such as adjusting the gas block, to reliably cycle ammunition with reduced pressure.

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