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Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

BlackOps Tech

BlackOps Tech

Still The Head Skunk
Commercial Supporter
Full Member
Minuteman
Sep 8, 2009
1,731
10
Columbia Falls, MT
www.blackopsprecision.com
#1
I'm putting a project rifle together to test the .300 AAC BLK for a particular group of end users and a gun-writer that will be writing a hand-loading article for it . We went to the range yesterday and put quite a few rounds downrange and it was a rather unique experience.

First, the specs on the rifle:
Underground Skunkworks Model 911 Action
Bartlein CRUX Contour 16" Barrel, Tight Bore, 8 Twist
AAC Brake/Adapter
AAC 762SD Suppressor

For the sake of the test, the barreled action was mounted in an AICS Chassis.
Ammo used was the Remington Factory 220gr SMK Subs.
Range Conditions:
Temp: 55*
Hum: 43%
Bar: 26.25
Alt: 3550
Wind: 0

I chronographed the first five shots:
1: 1092
2: 1015
3: 1142 (this was supersonic at my altitude)
4: 1000
5: 977
Avg: 1042
All shooting was done with the suppressor, off the bench with bipod and rear bag.

All in all, I'm not impressed with the Remington Factory load. All over the chart and extremely dirty. I zeroed the rifle at 50 yards, and the extreme spread was so large that shooting groups was a waste of time. As I understand it, this round was developed primarily for use in an AR platform and not for precision work, but the whole reason for this test is to look at collateral applications. Before employing this round in a precision role, the factory ammo will have to be a lot better than what I shot yesterday.

However, I'm intrigued by the possibilities and will be working on numerous handloads; subsonic with various heavy projectiles and higher speed loads with bullet weights ranging from 110 up to 155.

After zeroing at 50, we shot steel plates at 100 and 200 yards. The drop at 100 from our initial zero was 1.6 mils (6 inches) and at 200, 5.9 mils (43 inches).

Basically, shooting the .300 BLK felt like the centerfire version of the .22 Short. No perceptible recoil at all and I think my Webley and Scott Air Pistol is louder when shooting the .300 BLK suppressed.

We'll be getting the rifle in the Manners stock within a couple of weeks and I'll post pics of the rifle. As I continue the testing, I'll post results of the various handloads and provide data for those interested in handloading.

In addition, if you're already loading for this round, feel free to share your results here as well. I would appreciate the input and it would help further the testing.

Thanks Guys....
 
#3
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

Wetting the can isn't going to tighten the SD and ES numbers. And it isn't going to make it shoot straighter. OP said it was quiet.

OP: I'll be on the look out for this thread. Thanks for sharing and I'm looking forward to pics.
 
#5
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

Tag for future load data, the heavy slow projectiles with a good load behind them should yield some impressive groups. I can't wait to see what kind of handloads you work up.
 
#7
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

I worked on this a little more today and I should have some loads ready for testing in a few days. Basically, this is a late night/weekend project, but I do have to get the rifle finished for delivery to the writer.

If you're interested in load data, let me know, as I plan to create a data sheet with all the info. I can e-mail/PM the data to anyone interested.
 
#8
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Skunkworks</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> Basically, this is a late night/weekend project...</div></div>

While you're cloning Tim, you might want to clone you too, so that one of you might get some sleep.
wink.gif


John
 
#9
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

I am loading 300 AAC for an AR and R700, both 16" barrels. I am using VV N110 for the 150gr FMJBT's with great results in the R700 but get cycling issues in the AR. 9.2gr of N110 and SMK 220s gives me subsonic performance from the R700 and the AR, but the AR is not gased to shoot subs. It should be noted that all projectiles are hexagonal boron nitride coated.

I have loaded a new batch of 150's and 220's using AA1680, we'll see what we get...
 
#11
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jrob300</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Skunkworks</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> Basically, this is a late night/weekend project...</div></div>

While you're cloning Tim, you might want to clone you too, so that one of you might get some sleep.
wink.gif


John </div></div>

Not a bad idea....Stop by later today if you have time and we'll discuss your suppressor plans....
 
#12
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: phreakmode</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I am loading 300 AAC for an AR and R700, both 16" barrels. I am using VV N110 for the 150gr FMJBT's with great results in the R700 but get cycling issues in the AR. 9.2gr of N110 and SMK 220s gives me subsonic performance from the R700 and the AR, but the AR is not gased to shoot subs. It should be noted that all projectiles are hexagonal boron nitride coated.

I have loaded a new batch of 150's and 220's using AA1680, we'll see what we get... </div></div>

This is good info and I appreciate you sharing it. Do you have ES numbers for the N110 and 220's?
 
#13
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JFComfort</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The sub sonic loads seem like stepping back to black powder times! </div></div>

You ain't kiddin'. I cleaned the rifle and suppressor after the range test and I had evil flashbacks of cleaning a muzzle loader. By far the dirtiest I've ever seen a bolt rifle get....

I think part of the problem was the low temperature created with each shot and the relative humidity at the time on the range. Tim removed the suppressor and the inside of the suppressor and the adapter were wet with condensation. Every other round I've fired suppressed was hot enough that this would never happen.
 
#14
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

I am about 500 feet altitude, 220 bthp over 8.4 grains Lil Gun, adjust a couple tenths either way for desired velocity. Jump .020" to lands. Very clean, very accurate, and powder meters perfectly thru a manual measure.
 
#18
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Chiller</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Is there any chance with subsonic loads that the powder column is not being ignited in a uniform manner? The whole concept is interesting and not at the expense of a minute of barn rifle. </div></div>

I wouldn't think so. The charge is compressed and with the length of the projectile, there's only about 3/8" of area in the case for the powder charge.

In concept I find it interesting as well, but the factory ammo is definitely not there yet.
 
#19
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: RFtinkerer</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Could the condensation be a result of the powder combustion? </div></div>

Definitely. There's so little heat generated that the inside of the suppressor is more like a green house. The hotter loads I've shot with a suppressor were such that you can't touch the suppressor for a while before removing it. The suppressor with the .300 BLK was only a few degrees warmer than ambient air temp.
 
#21
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: phreakmode</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Standard Deviation was 17.3 on my chrono'd 10 shot string, was good enough for my use so I didn't try to get it in to the single digits. </div></div>

Have you chrono'd the A1680 loads yet? I hope to load a few rounds at the end of the week with A1680, H4198 and the N110. There are a few other good powders in the same neighborhood on the burn rate chart that I'll be trying as well.
 
#22
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

220gr SMKs go super sonic for me(chrono'd them) using anymore than 11grs of AA1680. I have a 9" bbl AAC. My subsonic load is 10.8 AA 1680.
 
#23
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

N110 should help standard deviation of velocity, but would either require a gun to be set up as subsonic only, be a single shot such as a bolt action, or require an adjustable gas block.

For subsonic loads that generate lots of gas pressure to make a semi or full auto reliable with a fixed gas port that can also shoot full power ammo, try A1680, 4198, and Re-7. None of them are the first choice for a bolt action rifle. For bolt actions, N110 is likely a better choice.
 
#24
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: rsilvers</div><div class="ubbcode-body">N110 should help standard deviation of velocity, but would either require a gun to be set up as subsonic only, be a single shot such as a bolt action, or require an adjustable gas block.

For subsonic loads that generate lots of gas pressure to make a semi or full auto reliable with a fixed gas port that can also shoot full power ammo, try A1680, 4198, Re-7, and if it fits, Re-10x. None of them are the first choice for a bolt action rifle. For bolt actions, N110 is likely a better choice. </div></div>

Glad you chimed in Robert and I'll be trying the N110 this weekend. This project is looking very promising. Do you know, or can you tell me, what powder is Remington using in the 220gr loads? Thanks....
 
#25
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

I can't say. I will say first and foremost, it was designed to cycle ARs. Reliability had to come first. Bolt guns are popular on this site, but in general, this is all about working in ARs.

 
#26
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: rsilvers</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I can't say. I will say first and foremost, it was designed to cycle ARs. Reliability had to come first. Bolt guns are popular on this site, but in general, this is all about working in ARs.

</div></div>

Understood. That was definitely my take-away from the range test.

I'd like to schedule a phone conversation with you when you have a few minutes. There are a few things I'm working on with the Blackout round that you may be interested in hearing about. Call me at the shop if you can; 406-892-1850. Thanks Robert....
 
#27
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

I've been trying like crazy to find some N110 around here to use in my bolt rifle. If theres none then I'm going to order some. Does anyone have a subsonic range to start with using N110?

Oh and I've had good results in my 9" AR using 18grs of H110 under a 125gr nosler BT. I've been wanting to get a coyote with one to see what it will do. IIRC thats a fairly light load, 20.6grs was listed as max under 300 whisper data.
 
#29
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

004.jpg

this load is not sub sonic or very fast, but it is very accurate. It shot very well out to 300, and managed a few hits at 700. My rifle seems to shoot every bullet and powder combo I've tried well, and some very well. Unique has been my subsonic powder.
 
#31
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

Does anyone have a load for 147gr FMJs? I'd like to get a cheap plinking load together for the AR. Doesn't need to be subsonic.

Planning on getting some of those 220gr hornady round nose bullets for a cheaper subsonic bolt gun load.
 
#32
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: phreakmode</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I am loading 300 AAC for an AR and R700, both 16" barrels. I am using VV N110 for the 150gr FMJBT's with great results in the R700 but get cycling issues in the AR. 9.2gr of N110 and SMK 220s gives me subsonic performance from the R700 and the AR, but the AR is not gased to shoot subs. It should be noted that all projectiles are hexagonal boron nitride coated.

I have loaded a new batch of 150's and 220's using AA1680, we'll see what we get... </div></div>

VV N110 is the powder to use. Around 9.5gr will have you around 1050fps in a bolt gun with that bbl length and twist a few tenths of a grain should dial it in the accuracy for your rifle. I prefer around 1000 fps for all temps and seasons to stay completely subsonic.

H110 is temp sensitive and not quite as good case fill I'd stay away unless you have a bunch to burn up.

9.5gr of N110 in LC brass was my bolt gun accuracy load.

8.2gr of N110 in LC brass is my AR load 16" bbl 1:8 twist with a Paladin 3 way gas block - gas is in the pistol position.

Suppressed with AAC 762SD

8.4gr N110 Wolf SRM primers 220gr SMK 80*
Avg: 1012.4
High: 1029
Low: 989.2
ES: 39.8
SD:14.7
5 Shots 100 yds just over .753" with Aimpoint Comp ML3

8.2gr N110 LC brass Wolf SRM primers 220 SMK 83* same day.
Avg: 985.9
High: 992.5
Low: 974.7
ES: 17.8
SD: 6.3
5 Shots 100 yds .610" with Aimpoint Comp ML3

* Note: I don't own a magnifier for my Aimpoints. And yes I was surprised at those groups with this optic.
 
#33
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: mavrick10_2000</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: phreakmode</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I am loading 300 AAC for an AR and R700, both 16" barrels. I am using VV N110 for the 150gr FMJBT's with great results in the R700 but get cycling issues in the AR. 9.2gr of N110 and SMK 220s gives me subsonic performance from the R700 and the AR, but the AR is not gased to shoot subs. It should be noted that all projectiles are hexagonal boron nitride coated.

I have loaded a new batch of 150's and 220's using AA1680, we'll see what we get... </div></div>

Very Good Info! I loaded numerous rounds over the last few nights with N110, but the weather has kept me from testing them. I'm encouraged by the data you've shared. Thanks....

VV N110 is the powder to use. Around 9.5gr will have you around 1050fps in a bolt gun with that bbl length and twist a few tenths of a grain should dial it in the accuracy for your rifle. I prefer around 1000 fps for all temps and seasons to stay completely subsonic.

H110 is temp sensitive and not quite as good case fill I'd stay away unless you have a bunch to burn up.

9.5gr of N110 in LC brass was my bolt gun accuracy load.

8.2gr of N110 in LC brass is my AR load 16" bbl 1:8 twist with a Paladin 3 way gas block - gas is in the pistol position.

Suppressed with AAC 762SD

8.4gr N110 Wolf SRM primers 220gr SMK 80*
Avg: 1012.4
High: 1029
Low: 989.2
ES: 39.8
SD:14.7
5 Shots 100 yds just over .753" with Aimpoint Comp ML3

8.2gr N110 LC brass Wolf SRM primers 220 SMK 83* same day.
Avg: 985.9
High: 992.5
Low: 974.7
ES: 17.8
SD: 6.3
5 Shots 100 yds .610" with Aimpoint Comp ML3

* Note: I don't own a magnifier for my Aimpoints. And yes I was surprised at those groups with this optic.
</div></div>
 
#34
Re: Shot the .300 AAC Blackout

Mike, looks like you should be able to get in the right neighborhood!

I did not get a chance to run the AA1680 loads over a chrono, but I can say that the supersonic AA1680 with Hornady 150gr FMJBTs cycle my carbine length AR 100% reliably, where the N110 gave me 1 in 15 failures to completely cycle the action, <span style="text-decoration: line-through">the charges are the same that I noted previously</span> the charges are what is noted below. Will try to chrono the subs this weekend.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Creature</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Does anyone have a load for 147gr FMJs? I'd like to get a cheap plinking load together for the AR. Doesn't need to be subsonic.

Planning on getting some of those 220gr hornady round nose bullets for a cheaper subsonic bolt gun load. </div></div>

16.5 VV N110
19.4 AA 1680

I suggest you work up to those loads starting from a 15% reduction
 
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