Reloading your own 300 Blackout ammunition offers significant advantages: cost savings, the ability to tailor loads to your specific firearm, and the satisfaction of crafting your own precision rounds. This guide focuses specifically on reloading data using Hornady components, providing a safe and effective approach for experienced reloaders. Always consult your firearm's owner's manual and Hornady's official reloading manual before attempting any reloading. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for official reloading data.
Understanding the Importance of Accurate Reloading Data
Accurate reloading data is paramount for safety and performance. Using incorrect data can lead to dangerous pressure spikes, causing damage to your firearm or even injury. Hornady provides detailed data in their manual, specifying powder type, charge weight, bullet weight, primer type, and overall cartridge length (OAL). Never deviate from published data unless you possess advanced reloading knowledge and utilize appropriate pressure testing equipment.
Choosing Your Hornady Components
Hornady offers a wide variety of components suitable for 300 Blackout reloading. Selecting the right components is crucial for achieving optimal accuracy and performance.
Bullets:
Hornady manufactures several excellent 300 Blackout bullets, including:
- Hornady 110 gr V-MAX®: Ideal for supersonic loads, offering excellent accuracy and expansion.
- Hornady 125 gr FTX®: A versatile bullet suitable for both subsonic and supersonic loads. Its Flex Tip® design ensures reliable feeding and accuracy.
- Hornady 220 gr Sub-X®: Designed specifically for subsonic applications, delivering excellent accuracy at lower velocities.
Powders:
Powder selection significantly impacts performance. Hornady's reloading manual will list compatible powders for various bullet weights. Popular choices often include:
- Hodgdon CFE BLK: A popular choice for its clean burning properties and consistent performance.
- Accurate Arms #9: Another excellent option known for its accuracy and versatility.
Note: Always use the recommended powder type and charge weight specified in Hornady's reloading manual. Using a different powder or deviating from the recommended charge weight can be extremely dangerous.
Primers:
Hornady offers a range of small rifle primers suitable for 300 Blackout. The specific primer type may be recommended by Hornady depending on the powder and bullet combination.
Cases:
Hornady produces high-quality brass cases specifically designed for 300 Blackout. Using new, clean brass is crucial for consistent performance and accuracy.
Setting Up Your Reloading Station
Before beginning, ensure you have a clean and organized reloading station with all necessary equipment, including:
- A reliable reloading press: Choose a press suited for your needs and experience level.
- Appropriate dies: Hornady offers full-length sizing dies, seating dies, and crimp dies specifically designed for 300 Blackout.
- Powder measure: A consistent powder measure is essential for safe and accurate reloading.
- Scale: A digital scale capable of measuring to the tenth of a grain is vital for accurate powder charges.
- Case trimmer: Trimming cases to a uniform length is crucial for consistent performance.
Safety Precautions
- Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection.
- Never load more powder than recommended in Hornady's manual.
- Double-check your powder charges before seating the bullet.
- Keep your reloading area clean and organized.
- Never mix components from different manufacturers without consulting their specific reloading manuals.
This guide provides a foundation for reloading 300 Blackout ammunition using Hornady components. Remember that safe and successful reloading requires careful attention to detail, adherence to safety precautions, and diligent consultation of the Hornady reloading manual. Always prioritize safety and accuracy in your reloading process.
