Is 300BLK finally dead?

Published on June 14, 2026
Duration: 19:16

This video provides a comparative analysis of three subsonic rifle calibers: 300 Blackout, 338 Arc, and 8.6 Blackout. It features penetration testing through drywall and plywood, kinetic energy testing on watermelons, and sound signature analysis. The presenter, identified as knowledgeable in firearms, breaks down the pros and cons of each caliber, focusing on performance, availability, and cost.

Quick Summary

300 Blackout, 338 Arc, and 8.6 Blackout are compared for suppressed shooting. 300 BLK is accessible on AR-15, 338 Arc offers more energy on AR-15, and 8.6 BLK provides superior energy and hunting performance but is more expensive and requires AR-10. All show strong penetration, with 8.6 BLK being the quietest.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Is 300 Blackout Dead?
  2. 00:11New Contenders: 8.6 Blackout & 338 Arc
  3. 00:29Testing Methodology: Penetration & Kinetic Energy
  4. 00:54Sponsor: War Thunder Game
  5. 02:24Penetration Test 1: Drywall
  6. 04:33Penetration Test 2: Plywood
  7. 06:10Kinetic Energy Test: Watermelon
  8. 07:08Pros and Cons: 300 Blackout
  9. 08:12Pros and Cons: 338 Arc
  10. 09:31Pros and Cons: 8.6 Blackout
  11. 10:44Conclusion: Which Caliber Wins?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between 300 Blackout, 338 Arc, and 8.6 Blackout for suppressed shooting?

300 Blackout is the most established and affordable, using the AR-15 platform. The 338 Arc offers more energy than 300 BLK on an AR-15 platform without needing AR-10. The 8.6 Blackout provides the highest energy and best terminal performance, ideal for hunting, but requires an AR-10 platform and is the most expensive.

How do 300 Blackout, 338 Arc, and 8.6 Blackout perform in penetration tests?

In penetration tests with drywall and plywood, all three subsonic calibers demonstrated significant ability to punch through materials without much tumbling. They acted like drill bits, maintaining their trajectory through multiple layers.

Which subsonic caliber is the quietest when suppressed?

The 8.6 Blackout is considered the quietest among the three, producing a sound signature described as similar to a finger snap. This makes it highly desirable for suppressed shooting applications where noise reduction is paramount.

Is 300 Blackout still relevant compared to newer calibers like 338 Arc and 8.6 Blackout?

Yes, 300 Blackout remains relevant due to its widespread availability, lower cost, and extensive aftermarket support for AR-15 platforms. While newer calibers offer performance advantages, 300 Blackout is the most accessible entry point for subsonic suppressed shooting.

Related News

All News →

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from PewView

View all →