The .300 AAC Blackout has carved out its own territory in the firearms world—especially among hunters. Originally developed to deliver effective ballistics in short-barreled AR-style rifles and to excel in suppressed shooting scenarios, it has now become a favorite for deer, hog, and even coyote hunting.
This cartridge offers the perfect balance between compact firepower and versatility in the field. Whether you're hunting in the dense woods of the Southeast or stalking wild hogs under night vision, the 300 Blackout has the tools to deliver.
What Makes the 300 Blackout Different?
Designed by Advanced Armament Corp and standardized by SAAMI in 2011, the .300 AAC Blackout (also known as 300 BLK) was built to solve a problem: deliver .30-caliber performance from the AR-15 platform without requiring a new lower receiver or bolt.
It does exactly that. The 300 BLK uses standard 5.56 NATO bolts and magazines, which means no new gear is required. Swap your upper, and you're in business.
When compared to traditional AR-15 calibers like 5.56, the 300 Blackout excels in short barrels (typically 9 to 12 inches), performs better when suppressed, and delivers heavier, more impactful rounds.
Why Hunters are Choosing .300 Blackout
Short Barrel, Big Results
The 300 BLK was designed for performance in short barrels. This makes it ideal for close-quarters hunting or dense environments like brush or swamp land. When paired with the right optic and load, it offers effective terminal performance out to 150-200 yards—perfect for most whitetail and hog hunting.
Suppressed Capability
One of the standout features of the 300 Blackout is how well it performs with suppressors. Subsonic loads—typically 200+ grain bullets—offer quiet, low-recoil shooting that won’t spook other game. For nighttime or tactical hog hunts, that means follow-up shots without giving away your position.
If you're using a suppressed AR-15 or AR pistol, the 300 BLK is the most practical choice among popular calibers.
Versatility in Ammunition
The 300 Blackout platform shines because it offers both supersonic and subsonic ammunition options:
Switching between ammo types requires no rifle modifications—just swap the magazine and you're ready to go.
The Ideal Hunting Setup
Platform Choice
A lightweight AR-15 hunting rifle or pistol in 300 BLK is an ideal starting point for hunters who want agility without sacrificing knockdown power. Options like the PSA 300 Blackout Pistol deliver an ergonomic, modular platform that’s easy to customize.
For those who prefer a beefier build, Moriarti Armaments offers a range of robust AR-style firearms, including the MA-10 Pistol. While the MA-10 is typically chambered in .308 Win, Moriarti's high-quality builds and AR-15 lower options make them a trusted name for anyone looking to upgrade or build a 300 Blackout hunting rifle.
Optics and Accessories
Pairing your 300 BLK with a good low-power variable optic (LPVO) gives you both eyes-open engagement and precision at medium distances. A 1-6x or 1-8x scope works perfectly on most hunting grounds.
Suppressors are highly recommended for subsonic use. With a quality can, your 300 Blackout rifle becomes incredibly quiet—making it one of the most discreet hunting options available.
Other recommended accessories:
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30-round Magpul magazines (compatible with 300 BLK)
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Weapon light for nighttime hunts
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Sling for easy carry in the field
300 Blackout vs. Other Hunting Calibers
Compared to traditional .223/5.56, the 300 Blackout offers superior energy and larger projectile diameter, which is critical for ethical hunting. It doesn't match the long-range reach of 6.5 Creedmoor or .308 Win, but that’s not the point.
300 BLK fills the niche of short to mid-range hunting where a lightweight, suppressor-ready AR is the optimal solution. It also outperforms the 7.62x39mm in terms of modern platform compatibility and ammunition availability.
Choosing the Right Ammo
Selecting the right 300 Blackout hunting ammo is key:
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Barnes VOR-TX 110gr TAC-TX – Excellent for deer, rapid expansion.
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Hornady BLACK 208gr A-MAX Subsonic – Quiet and effective on hogs.
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Remington 125gr AccuTip – Good balance of accuracy and expansion.
Always check your local game laws regarding minimum caliber or energy requirements before heading out.
Final Thoughts
If you’re building or buying your next hunting setup and want a caliber that’s compact, powerful, and adaptable, the .300 AAC Blackout deserves serious consideration. Whether you're running a full-sized AR-15 rifle or a lightweight pistol build, this round delivers real-world hunting capability.
Brands like Moriarti Armaments are giving hunters rugged, well-built platforms that pair perfectly with 300 BLK. Whether you're hunting whitetail at dawn or clearing fields of feral hogs at night, this is one caliber you’ll be glad to have in your kit.
Ready to Build Your 300 Blackout Setup?
Check out our full selection of 300 Blackout rifles and uppers to get started.
