.300 Blackout vs .308 Winchester
The .300 Blackout vs .308 Winchester comparison reveals two cartridges designed for completely different applications, despite sharing identical bullet weights in this example. The .308 Winchester (150gr Extreme Point at 2820 fps) delivers dramatically superior energy, maintaining 2433 ft-lbs at 50 yards compared to the .300 Blackout's (150gr Extreme Point at 1900 fps) 1088 ft-lbs. Both cartridges demonstrate substantial penetration for hunting applications, with the .300 Blackout reaching 27.8-28.2 inches and the .308 Winchester achieving 22.5-22.7 inches, both well beyond defensive requirements. The recoil comparison strongly favors the .300 Blackout, generating 7.04 ft-lbs of recoil energy versus the .308's 22.2 ft-lbs. While the .300 Blackout excels in short-barreled rifles and suppressed applications, the .308 Winchester's nearly double energy retention makes it far superior for hunting and long-range applications where power matters most. Remember that performance varies considerably with different ammunition selections and firearm platforms, so these figures represent typical hunting loadings rather than definitive performance benchmarks.
Ammunition Parameters
.300 Blackout Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.308 Winchester Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.300 Blackout vs .308 Winchester Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .300 Blackout and .308 Winchester.
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.300 Blackout vs .308 Winchester Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .300 Blackout and .308 Winchester.
.300 Blackout vs .308 Winchester Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .300 Blackout and .308 Winchester at self-defense distances.
Self-Defense Ammunition Penetration
Notes:
- FBI standard for optimal penetration is 12-18 inches in 10% ballistics gel
- Our penetration data is calculated using mathematical models based on sectional density, velocity, and expansion factors. While not actual gel tests, our calculations have been validated against manufacturer test data and provide reliable estimates for comparison purposes.
- Actual results may vary depending on clothing barriers and other factors
.300 Blackout vs .308 Winchester Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .300 Blackout and .308 Winchester.
.300 Blackout Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
.308 Winchester Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
Notes:
- Recoil calculations based on bullet weight, velocity, powder charge, and firearm weight
- Recoil energy indicates the felt force when firing the weapon
- Recoil impulse represents momentum transfer during firing
- Actual felt recoil can vary based on grip, stance, and firearm design
.300 Blackout vs .308 Winchester Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 500 yards for .300 Blackout and .308 Winchester.
.300 Blackout vs .308 Winchester Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .300 Blackout and .308 Winchester.