Loading Subsonic Ammunition for an AR15: A Personal Experiment

When it comes to reloading ammunition, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Every shooter has their own unique preferences and goals, whether it's achieving a specific level of accuracy or reducing the noise output of their firearm. In this article, we'll explore my personal experiment with loading subsonic ammunition for an AR15.

As someone who enjoys playing with guns, I've always been fascinated by the concept of subsonic ammunition. By reducing the powder charge to below the speed of sound, you can create a round that's not only quieter but also more stable in flight. The challenge, however, lies in getting the gun to cycle properly and ensuring that the bullet stabilizes before exiting the barrel.

In my case, I'm using a standard AR15 with no adjustable gas block, which makes it even more challenging to get the subsonic rounds to function reliably. After conducting several experiments, I've settled on a load that works for me: 4.4gr Trail Boss powder with 55gr FMJ bullets. The result is a round that's remarkably quiet, with the bullet hitting the target at 50 yards producing the loudest sound.

To test the stability of the rounds, I set up three sheets of cardboard at different ranges and shot all three at once. This helped me identify any keyholing issues or instability in flight. After several tests, I've concluded that this load is stable enough to consider using with my Ranger 2 can suppressor.

One common concern when reloading for subsonic ammunition is the risk of pressure spikes or baffle strikes due to too little powder or an unstable bullet. While it's true that excessive under-powdering can cause problems, I haven't experienced any issues with this load so far. As always, it's essential to approach reloading with caution and consult reputable resources before making any changes.

In conclusion, loading subsonic ammunition for an AR15 requires patience, experimentation, and attention to detail. While it may not be suitable for every shooter or situation, I've found that it can be a fun and rewarding experience when done correctly. Whether you're looking to reduce noise output or simply try something new, I encourage you to explore the world of subsonic reloading and discover its possibilities for yourself.

223 subsonic reload data