First Impressions of Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX .300 AAC Blackout 110 Grain Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition A300BLK-110-VMAX $1.46 Off
The Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX .300 AAC Blackout 110 Grain Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition A300BLK-110-VMAX $1.46 Off promises controlled expansion and rapid energy transfer, making it a popular choice for both hunting and self-defense. The combination of Wilson Combat’s reputation for quality and Hornady’s V-MAX bullet design creates high expectations for accuracy and terminal performance.
I’ve been searching for a reliable and accurate .300 Blackout round for hog hunting in dense brush. Subsonic rounds lacked the necessary punch at longer distances, and heavier supersonic rounds sometimes over-penetrated. This ammunition seemed to strike the right balance between velocity, weight, and bullet construction.
Upon receiving the ammunition, the first thing I noticed was the pristine condition of the brass cases. Each round was clean and consistently crimped. The polymer tip of the Hornady V-MAX bullet was sharply defined, suggesting consistent manufacturing.
Compared to similar offerings from other manufacturers, like the Barnes Tac-TX or the Lehigh Defense Controlled Chaos, this ammunition was noticeably more affordable. My decision was driven by the positive reviews, the reputation of both Wilson Combat and Hornady, and, of course, the attractive price point. This price reduction makes it much more attractive than other comparable brands.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The components appeared to be of high quality, and the price was certainly right. I was eager to get to the range and see how it performed in my rifle.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX .300 AAC Blackout 110 Grain Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition A300BLK-110-VMAX $1.46 Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX ammunition at my local shooting range, which offers both indoor and outdoor facilities. I used my custom-built AR-15 chambered in .300 Blackout, equipped with a 16-inch barrel and a 1:8 twist rate. The weather was mild and sunny, with a slight breeze.
The ammunition performed flawlessly right out of the box. Cycling was smooth and consistent, with no malfunctions of any kind. Recoil was manageable and predictable, even during rapid fire drills.
I was impressed with the accuracy I achieved during my first shooting session. At 100 yards, I consistently produced groupings of around 1 MOA (Minute of Angle). There were no pressure issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, I can confidently say that this ammunition is reliable and consistent. I’ve fired several hundred rounds of the Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX through my rifle without experiencing any issues. Cleaning the rifle after using this ammunition is no different than after using any other high-quality brass-cased ammunition.
The brass cases show no signs of excessive wear or stress, indicating a well-balanced load. I’ve used it in temperatures ranging from near freezing to over 90 degrees Fahrenheit without any noticeable change in performance. It performed flawlessly in all conditions tested.
Compared to my previous experience with some cheaper brands of .300 Blackout ammunition, the Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX is a significant step up in terms of both accuracy and reliability. It has consistently outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX .300 AAC Blackout 110 Grain Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition A300BLK-110-VMAX $1.46 Off
Specifications
The ammunition is chambered in .300 AAC Blackout, a versatile round known for its effectiveness in both short-barreled rifles (SBRs) and standard-length rifles. This caliber offers excellent terminal ballistics in a compact package.
It features a 110-grain Hornady V-MAX bullet, a polymer-tipped projectile designed for rapid expansion and devastating terminal effects. This light-for-caliber bullet delivers high velocity and a flat trajectory.
The cartridges are brass cased, ensuring reliable feeding and extraction in AR-15 style rifles. Brass casing is a standard material that will provide reliable performance.
The listed muzzle velocity is 2350 ft/s, providing ample energy for hunting and self-defense applications. This high velocity contributes to a flatter trajectory and increased range.
The listed muzzle energy is 1349 ft-lbs, making it suitable for taking medium-sized game at reasonable distances. This energy level ensures adequate penetration and expansion.
The bullet type is Polymer Tipped Flat Based (PTFB), optimizing aerodynamics and promoting rapid expansion upon impact. The flat base also contributes to stability in flight.
It features a Centerfire primer style, which is standard and highly reliable. Centerfire primers offer consistent ignition.
The G1 Ballistic Coefficient is 0.26, indicating moderate aerodynamic efficiency. This translates to a relatively flat trajectory out to moderate distances.
The ammunition is not lead free, which may be a concern for shooters in certain jurisdictions or those who prioritize lead-free ammunition. This may be a con for some users.
These specifications combine to create a .300 Blackout round that is well-suited for both hunting and self-defense applications. The high velocity and rapidly expanding bullet ensure devastating terminal performance, while the brass casing and centerfire primer contribute to reliable feeding and ignition.
Performance & Functionality
The Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX ammunition performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It is accurate, reliable, and delivers impressive terminal performance.
Its main strength is its accuracy. Consistent groupings make it suitable for target shooting, hunting, and defensive applications.
It cycles reliably in my AR-15 platform. With the Hornady V-MAX bullets, it is more accurate.
Design & Ergonomics
The ammunition is designed with functionality in mind. The brass casings are smooth and polished, ensuring reliable feeding and extraction.
The Hornady V-MAX bullet is sleek and aerodynamic, contributing to a flat trajectory. While ammunition doesn’t have “ergonomics” in the traditional sense, the consistent dimensions and smooth finish make it easy to load and handle.
Durability & Maintenance
As a brass-cased ammunition, the Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX is inherently durable. It is designed to withstand the stresses of being loaded, fired, and extracted from a firearm.
Brass is resistant to corrosion and degradation, ensuring a long shelf life if stored properly. Cleaning the firearm after using this ammunition is straightforward.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ammunition itself doesn’t offer customization options in the traditional sense. The biggest customization option is selecting the appropriate optic for your rifle to take advantage of the ammunition’s accuracy and range.
This ammunition is designed to be compatible with standard AR-15 platforms chambered in .300 Blackout. There aren’t necessarily “accessories” specific to this ammo other than magazines designed for .300 Blackout.
Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX .300 AAC Blackout 110 Grain Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition A300BLK-110-VMAX $1.46 Off
Pros
- Excellent Accuracy: Consistently produces sub-MOA groupings in my rifle.
- Devastating Terminal Performance: The Hornady V-MAX bullet expands rapidly, delivering impressive stopping power.
- Reliable Feeding and Extraction: Brass casings ensure smooth cycling in AR-15 platforms.
- High Velocity: Delivers a flat trajectory and extended range compared to subsonic .300 Blackout rounds.
- Reputable Manufacturers: The combination of Wilson Combat and Hornady ensures high quality and consistent performance.
Cons
- Not Lead Free: May not be suitable for shooters in areas with lead restrictions.
- Price: While competitively priced, it’s still more expensive than some budget .300 Blackout options.
Who Should Buy Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX .300 AAC Blackout 110 Grain Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition A300BLK-110-VMAX $1.46 Off?
The Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX .300 AAC Blackout ammunition is perfect for hunters seeking a reliable and accurate round for medium-sized game such as deer and hogs. It is also an excellent choice for self-defense, offering impressive stopping power and manageable recoil in AR-15 platforms. It is good for anyone with a .300 AAC Blackout rifle.
This ammunition may not be the best choice for shooters who are primarily concerned with cost. Budget-friendly .300 Blackout options are available, though they may sacrifice accuracy and terminal performance. Shooters in areas with lead restrictions will also need to seek out lead-free alternatives.
A quality optic is a must-have accessory to take full advantage of the accuracy of this ammunition. A suppressor can also enhance the shooting experience by reducing recoil and muzzle blast.
Conclusion on Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX .300 AAC Blackout 110 Grain Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition A300BLK-110-VMAX $1.46 Off
Overall, the Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX .300 AAC Blackout 110 Grain Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition A300BLK-110-VMAX $1.46 Off is an excellent choice for shooters seeking a reliable, accurate, and terminally effective round for hunting and self-defense. The price is justified by the quality of the components and the consistent performance.
I would personally recommend this ammunition to anyone looking for a premium .300 Blackout option. It delivers exceptional results in terms of accuracy, reliability, and stopping power.
If you’re serious about your .300 Blackout rifle, don’t settle for mediocre ammunition. Invest in the Wilson Combat Hornady V-MAX and experience the difference for yourself!