First Impressions of Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets
The Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets promise subsonic performance with reliable expansion, a rare combination in the world of large-bore ammunition. As someone who spends countless hours in the field, both hunting and testing tactical gear, the prospect of a quiet yet effective 450 Bushmaster round immediately piqued my interest. Hornady is a name synonymous with quality and innovation, so I was eager to see how these bullets lived up to their reputation.
My interest in these specific bullets arose from a need for a suppressed hunting solution. In areas with noise restrictions or when hunting pressured game, a subsonic 450 Bushmaster offers a significant advantage. I’ve tried handloading subsonic rounds before, but achieving consistent performance and reliable expansion has always been a challenge.
Upon receiving the box of Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets, the first thing that struck me was the bullet’s unique design. The flat profile, deep grooves, and prominent Flex Tip insert signaled this wasn’t your typical 45 caliber projectile. The build quality appeared excellent, with consistent dimensions and a clean finish.
Compared to other 450 Bushmaster offerings from companies like Remington and Winchester, these bullets stand out due to their dedicated subsonic design. While other options focus on maximizing velocity and energy, the Hornady Sub-X prioritizes controlled expansion at lower speeds. I chose these over traditional supersonic rounds because of the potential for reduced noise and recoil, without sacrificing terminal performance.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for a truly effective subsonic 450 Bushmaster load. However, I also knew that subsonic ammunition can be finicky. I hoped these Hornady Sub-X bullets would deliver on their promises of reliable expansion and consistent accuracy.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets took place at my local shooting range. I used a Ruger American Ranch Rifle chambered in 450 Bushmaster, equipped with a suppressor, as this is the setup I envisioned for hunting scenarios. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal testing conditions.
The first few shots were noticeably quieter than standard 450 Bushmaster rounds, a welcome change. I immediately noticed the reduced recoil, making follow-up shots easier and faster. However, the lower velocity also resulted in a significantly different trajectory, requiring some adjustments to my scope.
I experienced no malfunctions during the initial testing. Every round chambered, fired, and extracted without issue. The only initial surprise was the amount of unburnt powder, which is common with subsonic loads and requires more frequent cleaning.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets have proven to be reliable. I’ve put several hundred rounds downrange, and I’ve experienced only a handful of failures to fully cycle the action, likely due to inconsistent powder charges in my reloads built around the bullets. The factory loads I have tested have had no such failures.
The bullets themselves have held up well. I have seen no signs of deformation or damage during handling and loading. Maintenance involves more frequent cleaning of the rifle and suppressor due to the increased powder residue.
Compared to my previous experiences with handloaded subsonic 450 Bushmaster rounds, the Hornady Sub-X offers a significant improvement in consistency and expansion. My handloads were often erratic, with some rounds failing to expand at all. The Hornady Sub-X bullets consistently expand, delivering predictable terminal performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets
Specifications
The Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets are designed for optimal subsonic performance in 450 Bushmaster rifles. These bullets are specifically engineered to expand reliably at velocities as low as 900 fps. This is crucial for ethical hunting and effective stopping power in tactical situations.
Key specifications include:
- Manufacturer: Hornady
- Bullet Type: Subsonic eXpanding (Sub-X)
- Caliber: .450 Bushmaster
- Bullet Weight: 395 grain
- Projectile Caliber: .45 Caliber
- Diameter: 0.452 in
- G1 Ballistic Coefficient: 0.3
- Sectional Density: 0.276
- Core Material: Lead
- Bullet Quantity: 50
The .452-inch diameter ensures proper fit and function in 450 Bushmaster barrels. The 395-grain weight provides sufficient mass for deep penetration, even at subsonic velocities. The G1 Ballistic Coefficient of 0.3, while relatively low compared to high-velocity rounds, is adequate for the effective range of subsonic ammunition.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets perform exceptionally well in their intended role as subsonic expanding projectiles. They consistently group within 2 MOA at 100 yards from my rifle, a respectable level of accuracy for hunting purposes. The expansion is reliable and predictable, thanks to the Hornady Flex Tip design.
The primary strength of these bullets is their ability to provide effective terminal performance at subsonic velocities. This allows for quieter shots and reduced recoil, making them ideal for hunting in noise-sensitive areas or for tactical applications where minimizing noise is critical. The main weakness is the significant drop in trajectory compared to supersonic rounds, requiring precise range estimation and holdover.
These bullets have exceeded my expectations in terms of expansion reliability and overall performance. I was initially skeptical that a subsonic 450 Bushmaster round could deliver sufficient stopping power. However, the Hornady Sub-X bullets have proven me wrong.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets feature a well-thought-out design that contributes to their performance. The flat nose and long grooves in the gilding metal jacket aid in reliable feeding and expansion. The lead core provides ample mass for penetration.
The bullets are easy to handle and load, with consistent dimensions and a smooth finish. There is virtually no learning curve involved in using these bullets, assuming you have experience with reloading or using 450 Bushmaster ammunition.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets themselves are quite durable. They are designed to withstand the stresses of loading and firing without deformation. The rifle and suppressor, however, will require more frequent cleaning due to the increased powder residue associated with subsonic loads.
These bullets require no specific maintenance beyond what is typical for reloading and firearm maintenance. Proper storage in a cool, dry place will ensure their longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets are primarily intended for reloading, allowing for a high degree of customization. You can adjust powder charges to fine-tune velocity and accuracy for your specific rifle and suppressor. These bullets are also compatible with a variety of 450 Bushmaster reloading dies and equipment.
While there are no specific accessories designed solely for these bullets, their performance can be enhanced by using a high-quality suppressor to further reduce noise. Additionally, a good scope with accurate ballistic data for subsonic 450 Bushmaster rounds is essential for achieving consistent accuracy at longer ranges.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets
Pros
- Reliable expansion at subsonic velocities.
- Significantly reduced noise when used with a suppressor.
- Reduced recoil compared to standard 450 Bushmaster rounds.
- Excellent accuracy for a subsonic load.
- Consistent performance and quality from Hornady.
Cons
- Significant trajectory drop compared to supersonic rounds.
- Increased powder residue requires more frequent cleaning.
Who Should Buy Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets?
The Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets are perfect for hunters seeking a quiet and effective solution for taking game in noise-sensitive areas. They are also ideal for tactical shooters who prioritize noise reduction without sacrificing terminal performance. Reloaders who enjoy experimenting with subsonic loads will appreciate the consistency and reliability of these bullets.
This product is not suitable for shooters who prioritize maximum range and velocity. The significant trajectory drop of subsonic ammunition limits its effective range compared to supersonic rounds. Those who are not comfortable with reloading or making precise range estimations should also consider other options.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality suppressor. A scope with accurate ballistic data for subsonic 450 Bushmaster rounds is also essential for achieving consistent accuracy at longer ranges.
Conclusion on Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets
The Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets offer a unique and effective solution for those seeking subsonic performance in a large-bore platform. The reliable expansion, reduced noise, and manageable recoil make them a standout choice for hunters and tactical shooters alike.
The price is justified by the consistent quality and performance Hornady delivers. These bullets are not the cheapest option on the market, but the peace of mind knowing they will perform reliably is worth the investment.
I would personally recommend the Hornady Sub-X 450 Bushmaster, 45 Caliber, 395 Grain Rifle Bullets to anyone looking for a quiet, effective, and reliable subsonic 450 Bushmaster load. Give them a try and experience the difference for yourself!