Why OTM = FMJ In 300BLK: Magtech 115gr OTM Gel Test

Published on January 3, 2020
Duration: 6:49

This video tests Magtech 115gr OTM 300 Blackout ammunition in ballistic gelatin. The test reveals that at 300 Blackout velocities, OTM (Open Tip Match) bullets often perform similarly to FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) rounds, exhibiting yaw but lacking significant expansion or fragmentation. While still effective as a rifle round, it's not ideal for home defense or hunting compared to specialized loads.

Quick Summary

In 300 Blackout, Open Tip Match (OTM) bullets often perform like Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) rounds because the cartridge's lower muzzle velocity (typically 200+ ft/s slower than 5.56x45mm) is insufficient for OTMs to expand or fragment as designed. This results in yawing without significant deformation, making them less ideal for terminal performance compared to specialized defense or hunting loads.

Chapters

  1. 00:12Introduction to Magtech 115gr OTM 300 Blackout
  2. 00:27Understanding 300 Blackout (7.62x35mm)
  3. 01:04OTM Bullet Performance at Different Velocities
  4. 01:46Ballistic Gel Test Setup
  5. 02:23First Gel Test Results: Yaw, No Expansion
  6. 03:44Second Gel Test Results: Consistent FMJ-like Performance
  7. 04:00Why OTMs Don't Fragment in 300 Blackout
  8. 04:30300 Blackout Velocity Limitations for Bullet Performance
  9. 05:12OTM vs. Terminal Performance
  10. 05:27Analysis of Bullet Yaw and Wound Cavity
  11. 06:06Recommended 300 Blackout Loads for Defense/Hunting

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Open Tip Match (OTM) bullets often perform like Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) in 300 Blackout?

In 300 Blackout, which has lower muzzle velocities compared to cartridges like 5.56x45mm, OTM bullets typically lack the necessary speed to expand or fragment. This results in them behaving similarly to FMJ rounds, primarily causing yaw without significant deformation.

What is the typical terminal performance of 115gr OTM 300 Blackout ammunition?

When tested in ballistic gelatin, 115gr OTM 300 Blackout ammunition generally exhibits yaw but does not expand or fragment. Its performance is comparable to FMJ ammunition, creating a wound channel primarily through penetration and bullet tumbling.

Are OTM bullets a good choice for home defense or hunting in 300 Blackout?

While OTM bullets can be accurate, they are generally not recommended for home defense or hunting in 300 Blackout due to their limited terminal performance. Specialized loads like the 110gr Barnes TAC-TX or Hornady SST offer superior expansion and fragmentation for these applications.

How does 300 Blackout's velocity affect bullet performance compared to other cartridges?

300 Blackout's lower muzzle velocity, often 200+ ft/s slower than 5.56x45mm, means that bullet designs optimized for expansion at higher speeds, like many OTMs, may not achieve their intended effect. This velocity dependency is key to understanding terminal ballistics.

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