The Hornady Subsonic 7.62x39 255 Grain Sub-X delivers exceptional accuracy and terminal performance at velocities below the speed of sound, making it an ideal choice for suppressed rifle platforms where reduced noise and minimal flash are paramount.
- 255-grain Sub-X bullet engineered for reliable expansion at subsonic velocities
- Patented Flex Tip insert promotes consistent, controlled hollow point expansion
- Long grooves in gilding metal jacket enhance in-flight stability and accuracy
- Optimized powder charge produces a muzzle velocity of approximately 1,050 FPS
- Unique powder formulation results in a low flash signature for low-light use
- 20 rounds per box, loaded to SAAMI specs for reliable feeding in standard 7.62x39 rifles
Who This Is For
This ammunition is purpose-built for hunters, sport shooters, and tactical enthusiasts who run suppressed AK-pattern rifles or other 7.62x39 platforms and demand quiet operation without sacrificing reliable terminal performance. It's equally well-suited for hog hunters or anyone pursuing medium-sized game where a subsonic, hearing-safe load is preferred over standard supersonic options.
Specifications
| Brand | Hornady |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 7.62x39mm |
| Bullet Weight | 255 Grain |
| Bullet Type | Sub-X (Flex Tip Hollow Point) |
| Muzzle Velocity | 1,050 FPS |
| Application | Subsonic / Suppressor Use |
| Rounds Per Box | 20 |
| Casing Material | Brass |
| Part Number | 80787 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this ammunition cycle reliably in a semi-automatic AK-pattern rifle without a suppressor?
Hornady loads these rounds to maintain reliable cycling in most standard 7.62x39 semi-automatic rifles, even without a suppressor attached. However, because subsonic ammunition generates lower chamber pressure than supersonic loads, cycling performance can vary depending on your specific rifle's gas system and bolt carrier group. Some shooters find that adjusting a gas-adjustable suppressor host or the operating rod improves reliability. It is always recommended to test your specific rifle before relying on any subsonic load for field use.
How does the Sub-X bullet's Flex Tip insert improve expansion at low velocities?
Traditional hollow point bullets can struggle to expand reliably below the speed of sound because the reduced velocity limits the hydraulic pressure needed to initiate expansion. Hornady's patented Flex Tip insert fills the hollow point cavity, preventing clogging while compressing upon impact to drive outward expansion of the bullet's petals. Combined with the long grooves in the gilding metal jacket, this design ensures consistent, controlled mushrooming even at the approximately 1,050 FPS muzzle velocity this load produces.
Is this load appropriate for hunting medium-sized game such as whitetail deer or feral hogs?
The Hornady Sub-X 255 grain 7.62x39 load is well-regarded for hunting feral hogs and similarly sized medium game at reasonable distances, typically inside 100 yards where retained energy remains adequate for ethical, clean kills. The heavy-for-caliber bullet and reliable expansion characteristics of the Sub-X design make it a capable hunting round in suppressor-friendly states. Always verify that the load meets your state's minimum energy or bullet-type requirements for the game species you are pursuing, and practice at the ranges you plan to hunt.
- Caliber:
- 7.62X39
- Bullet Weight:
- 255 GR
- Bullet Type:
- Sub-X
- Type:
- Rifle Ammunition
- Box Quantity:
- 20
- Case Quantity:
- 200
- Lead Free:
- No