Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
If you’re not in the know about 8.6 BLK, here’s the scoop: it’s a cartridge born from the 6.5 Creedmoor case, necked up to 338 caliber. Why does it catch the eye of hunters and shooters?
The 8.6 BLK is extremely versatile and suppressor-friendly, thanks to supersonic and subsonic offerings. And let’s be real, those subsonic options pack a punch, thanks to hefty 280-grain projectiles, a fast twist, and innovative expanding designs that shred flesh.
What makes 8.6 BLK so versatile? It slides right into AR10/SR25 mags and your run-of-the-mill short action mag boxes. No fuss, no hassle.
8.6 BLK Selous Machined Expander Projectiles
Now, let’s get to the star of the show: the 8.6 BLK Selous Machined Expander projectiles made by Discreet Ballistics, a company in Wyoming. These bullets are CNC machined from solid copper and are designed to expand between 1050 and 750 FPS.
The pinch point near the ogive ensures expansion occurs reliably, whether its impact is in bone, flesh, or both. This expanding projectile makes the most of the rotational kinetic energy from the 1:3 twist barrels that 8.6 BLK is so well known for.
Tests show immediate expansion at 950 FPS with 19 inches of penetration in calibrated gelatin. Still, this projectile holds onto 100% of its mass post-expansion. Preorders are live, and these projectiles ship in the first quarter of 2024.
Need some brainy math for rotational kinetic energy? Hit up Discreet Ballistics’ Rotational Kinetic Energy Calculator. It’s like math class, but cooler.
And for the DIY enthusiasts, if you’re thinking of loading these projectiles yourself, shoot Discreet Ballistics an email via their website. They’re friendly folks willing to share information to get you started.
Projectiles Details:
- Quantity: 80 projectiles
- Price: $130.00
- Weight: 280gr
- Minimum Expansion Velocity: 700 FPS
Loaded 8.6 BLK Ammunition
Discreet Ballistics also will be offering 8.6 BLK ammunition featuring the 280gr Expander projectiles. This ammunition will be available in the first quarter of 2024 with a price tag of $64.99 for 20 rounds.
The loaded ammo rocks Q headstamped Hornady Brass, hitting speeds around 1,000 FPS (barrel length and firearm dependent). David, at Discreet Ballistics, shared that the results of his testing with 20 rounds yielded an SD of 8 FPS!
Other New Offerings:
But wait, there’s more!
Discreet Ballistics is rolling out an ELR projectile line under their Hotline Monolithics brand. Expect a 375 caliber 385gr and 308 caliber 216gr ELR bullet in the second quarter of 2024.
And if you’re itching for a 9mm fix, the 121gr Selous Expander is dropping in the first quarter, with plans to offer it in loaded ammo in the second quarter. It’s 2024, and Discreet Ballistics is bringing the heat – no frills, just firepower.
Learn more about Discreet ballistics here!
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