Why Is The 300 Blackout So Expensive? The 300 AAC Blackout cartridge has gained popularity in recent years among certain groups of shooters, particularly those who want a compact and versatile firearm that can be used for hunting, home defense, or tactical applications
300 Blackout (BLK)
The 300 AAC Blackout, also known as the 300 BLK or 7.62x35mm, is a rifle cartridge designed for use in the AR-15 platform.
It was introduced in 2011 by Advanced Armament Corporation (AAC) as a way to provide better performance in short-barreled rifles and suppressor-equipped firearms, while still being compatible with the standard AR-15 magazine and bolt.
The 300 AAC Blackout cartridge is essentially a necked-up 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge with a widened neck to accommodate a. 30-caliber bullet.
This enables the cartridge to use heavier bullets than the 5.56mm version while still fitting in a standard AR-15 magazine.
The 300 AAC Blackout cartridge is available in both supersonic and subsonic loads. Supersonic loads typically use bullets weighing between 110 and 130 grains, whereas subsonic loads use heavier bullets weighing up to 220 grains.
Subsonic loads are frequently used with suppressors because they produce less noise and recoil than supersonic loads.
Why Is The 300 Blackout So Expensive?
Lower demand
While the cartridge has gained a following among certain groups of shooters, it is not nearly as popular as more common rounds like 5.56mm or 9mm.
As a result, there is less demand for 300 AAC Blackout ammunition, which can make it more expensive to manufacture due to lower production volumes.
Specialized components
The 300 AAC Blackout cartridge requires some specialized components that are not as widely available as those used in more common rounds.
For example, the brass cases used for the 300 AAC Blackout must be formed from 5.56mm brass cases, which adds an additional step to the manufacturing process which can make the brass cases more expensive
Similarly, the projectiles used in 300 AAC Blackout ammunition are often more specialized than those used in more common rounds.
Because the cartridge is designed to work well in short-barreled rifles and suppressed firearms, the projectiles are often designed to perform well at lower velocities. This requires more careful design and testing than standard projectiles, which can drive up the cost.
Specialized manufacturing processes
The process required to produce the cartridge also contribute to the high cost of 300 AAC Blackout ammunition. For example, 5.56mm brass cases must be formed, trimmed, and necked down, which can be a time-consuming process.
Similarly, to ensure consistent performance at lower velocities, projectiles may require more careful manufacturing and testing.
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