The 8.6 Blackout ammo is gaining attention in the firearm world. Many shooters are now comparing it with popular calibers like the 300 Blackout, .308, and 5.56 NATO. This round is new but powerful. It is designed to deliver maximum damage with strong subsonic and supersonic performance.
In this blog post, we will look at 8.6 blackout-ammo for sale, compare it with other rounds, and explain its specs, price, and performance. If you’re a hunter, shooter, or firearm enthusiast, this guide is for you.
What is 8.6 Blackout Ammo?
The 8.6 Blackout-ammo is a new rifle cartridge designed by Q, LLC—the same company behind the popular Honey Badger rifle. It is built on the .308 Winchester case and is necked down to accept a .338 caliber bullet.
The ammo offers excellent performance in short-barrel rifles and works great with suppressors, making it ideal for close to medium-range shooting.
8.6 Blackout Ammo Specs
Here are the most important specs of 8.6 Blackout-ammo:
Parent case: .308 Winchester
Bullet diameter: .338 inch
Case length: 1.68 inches
Overall length: 2.60 inches
Rifling twist: 1:3 or 1:4 inches (extremely fast)
Bullet weight: 210 to 300+ grains
Subsonic velocity: ~1,050 fps
Supersonic velocity: 2,000+ fps
The twist rate is unique. A 1:3 twist is extremely fast and helps stabilize heavy bullets, especially for subsonic rounds.
History and Development
The 8.6 Blackout was created to be a more powerful and versatile version of the 300 Blackout. While the 300 BLK works well with AR-15 platforms, 8.6 Blackout is designed for AR-10 rifles or bolt-action platforms.
It first appeared around 2022 and quickly gained interest due to its heavy bullet size, quiet operation with suppressors, and deep wound potential.
8.6 Blackout Ammo Ballistics
Ballistics is where this round shines. Below is a simple breakdown of what to expect:
| Type | Bullet Weight | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supersonic | 210 gr | 2,000+ | 1,900+ |
| Subsonic | 300 gr | ~1,050 | ~735 |
Even subsonic rounds can cause major damage due to heavy weight and fast spin rate.
Supersonic vs Subsonic: What’s the Difference?
Supersonic 8.6 Blackout Ammo is faster than the speed of sound and delivers powerful energy.
Subsonic 8.6 Blackout Ammo is slower but quiet, especially with suppressors.
If you prefer stealth and control, subsonic is best. If you want speed and power, go for supersonic.
Best Subsonic 8.6 Blackout Ammo
Some popular options include:
Hornady 8.6 Blackout Subsonic 300 gr Sub-X
Discreet Ballistics 8.6 BLK 300 gr
Gorilla Ammunition Subsonic 8.6 BLK
These rounds are built for low noise but deadly performance.
8.6 Blackout Ammo vs 300 Blackout
| Feature | 8.6 Blackout | 300 Blackout |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet Size | .338 | .308 |
| Case Size | Based on .308 Win | Based on .223 |
| Velocity (Sup) | ~2,000 fps | ~2,200 fps |
| Energy | Higher | Moderate |
| Use Case | AR-10, Bolt-Action | AR-15 |
8.6 BLK hits harder and spins faster. 300 BLK is more available and lighter.
8.6 Blackout Ammo vs 308
| Feature | 8.6 Blackout | .308 Winchester |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet Diameter | .338 | .308 |
| Case Size | Similar | Original |
| Barrel Twist | 1:3 or 1:4 | 1:10 |
| Subsonic Option | Yes | Rare |
The 8.6 BLK offers a quieter shooting experience while still being deadly at shorter ranges.
Also Read: Kriss Vector Mag: Complete Guide to Types, Compatibility
8.6 Blackout Ammo vs 556
| Feature | 8.6 Blackout | 5.56 NATO |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet Weight | 210–300+ gr | 55–77 gr |
| Velocity | Lower | Higher |
| Energy | Much Higher | Moderate |
| Sound | Quieter (subsonic) | Loud |
8.6 BLK is heavier, deadlier, and better for suppressed weapons.
8.6 Blackout Ammo Size
The round is shorter than .308 but uses the same bolt and magazine.
It fits AR-10 platforms.
The bullet diameter is .338, larger than 300 BLK or 5.56.
Best 8.6 Blackout Ammo Options
Here are top choices in the market:
Hornady Sub-X 8.6 BLK
Discreet Ballistics 300 gr
GORILLA Ammo Subsonic
Lehigh Defense Controlled Chaos (supersonic)
Faxon Firearms 8.6 BLK ammo
8.6 Blackout Ammo for Sale and Price Guide
You can find 8.6 blackout ammo for sale at:
Brownells
MidwayUSA
Faxon Firearms
Discreet Ballistics
True Shot Gun Club
8.6 Blackout Ammo Price
Subsonic: $1.75 – $2.25 per round
Supersonic: $1.50 – $2.00 per round
Bulk: $1.30 – $1.75 per round (depending on quantity)
Who Makes 8.6 Blackout Ammo?
Several manufacturers now make this round, including:
Hornady
Discreet Ballistics
GORILLA Ammunition
Faxon Firearms
Lehigh Defense
Hornady and 8.6 Blackout Ammo
Hornady makes 300-grain Sub-X bullets for subsonic shooting. These are some of the best subsonic rounds with excellent expansion and low sound.
Buying in Bulk: 8.6 Blackout Ammo Bulk
You can buy in bulk to save money. Many online stores offer deals on:
100-round packs
250-round cases
500+ round bulk orders
Make sure to check for shipping rules and state laws.
8.6 Blackout Ammo Comparison Table
| Ammo Type | Bullet (gr) | Velocity | Energy | Suppressed Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8.6 BLK Sup | 210 | 2,000+ | 1,900+ | No |
| 8.6 BLK Sub | 300 | ~1,050 | ~735 | Yes |
| 300 BLK Sup | 125 | ~2,200 | ~1,350 | No |
| 300 BLK Sub | 220 | ~1,050 | ~550 | Yes |
| .308 Win | 150–180 | 2,600+ | 2,500+ | Rare |
| 5.56 NATO | 55–77 | 2,900+ | 1,200 | No |
The 8.6 Blackout is not just a new caliber. It’s a powerful evolution in short-barrel rifle ammo. With its heavy bullets, fast twist rate, and quiet subsonic options, it fills a unique space.
Whether you’re a hunter, a home defender, or just a fan of cool calibers, the 8.6 BLK is worth your attention. Look for 8.6 blackout ammo for sale now, and you might discover your next favorite round.
FAQs
1. Is 8.6 Blackout better than 300 Blackout?
Yes, in terms of power and damage, it’s better. But 300 BLK is cheaper and more available.
2. Can I shoot 8.6 Blackout in my AR-15?
No. It is designed for AR-10 platforms or bolt-action rifles.
3. What’s the best subsonic 8.6 blackout ammo?
Hornady’s 300-grain Sub-X and Discreet Ballistics are top picks.
4. Is 8.6 blackout ammo good for hunting?
Yes. It’s great for hunting medium and large game with both supersonic and subsonic options.
5. Why is the twist rate so fast?
A 1:3 twist helps stabilize heavy bullets, especially at subsonic speeds.
