Battle Of The Big And Slow | 338 vs 8.6

Published on July 6, 2025
Duration: 26:00

This video provides an expert-level comparison of the 8.6 Blackout and .338 ARC calibers, drawing on 20 years of ballistics experience. The host details rifle setups, ammunition types, and chronograph data, culminating in terminal ballistic tests on ballistic dummies. While both calibers demonstrate significant power, the .338 ARC shows superior energy retention at range, though the 8.6 Blackout is ultimately favored for platform versatility.

Quick Summary

Expert analysis comparing .338 ARC and 8.6 Blackout calibers reveals the .338 ARC retains more energy at 300 yards (850 ft-lbs vs 580 ft-lbs). Terminal tests showed significant differences, with the .338 ARC creating larger wound cavities. Despite this, the 8.6 Blackout was favored for platform versatility and specialized payload potential.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Big & Slow Calibers
  2. 01:09Test Rifles & Optics
  3. 01:55Ammunition Selection
  4. 03:05Chronograph & Range Testing Setup
  5. 07:34Ballistic Data Analysis at 300 Yards
  6. 09:29Ballistic Dummy Terminal Testing
  7. 15:43Terminal Ballistics Comparison Results
  8. 22:34Final Verdict & Winner

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary difference in performance between the .338 ARC and 8.6 Blackout calibers at 300 yards?

At 300 yards, the .338 ARC 307gr subsonic round retained significantly more energy (approx. 850 ft-lbs) than the 8.6 Blackout 342gr subsonic round (approx. 580 ft-lbs), indicating better energy retention for the .338 ARC at that distance.

How did the subsonic and supersonic rounds of the 8.6 Blackout perform on ballistic dummies?

The 8.6 Blackout subsonic round showed clean penetration with limited expansion. In contrast, the 190gr supersonic round caused massive trauma and fragmentation, particularly in the shoulder area of the ballistic dummy.

Which caliber was declared the overall winner, and why?

Despite the .338 ARC's superior energy retention at range, the 8.6 Blackout was chosen as the overall winner. This decision was based on the perceived superior platform support (Q Boombox) and the caliber's versatility for specialized ammunition types.

What equipment was used for testing the .338 ARC and 8.6 Blackout?

The test utilized specific rifles like the CMMG Mk4 Dissent (.338 ARC) and Q Boombox (8.6 Blackout), along with optics, suppressors, Hornady and Gorilla Ammunition, a Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph, and Ballistic Dummy Labs anatomical dummies.

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