Subsonics on hogs

I can't seem to let this go... Is there any reason to try it? I have my RFB waiting on a suppressor but given the short throw on it and the integrated gas control, Keltec believes with a suppressor, I should be able to cycle subsonics. I have some Hornady 220 grain subs I believe, was thinking of putting my Cyclone on it and giving it a try.

I assume the answer is all about shot placement to actually kill something, but is there any upside to trying subs on hogs?

When I use my 300 Whisper on hogs, the only difference I have seen as that the piggies don't seem to run as far and fast after that first shot. And I do ear shots only with the subs. The sounder still scatters, but they tend to come back and check out the area and their dead buddy much quicker. Especially if I don't get into one of my "spray and pray" episodes after the first shot! With my sonics, I rarely have any of the sounder return to the scene of the crime.

Sounds a lot cooler when you hit them
More of challenge to get in closer
Works real good if you are hunting bow stands
Would be cool to see some cool sub shots up close with your trail

^^^ You got it! The #1 thing I hear from customers about killing pigs with subs, is that they run off and never recovered. You have to hit CNS, bone, brain, etc, for a more immediate kill. A behind the shoulder shot will NOT work well, if you want to recover the animal. I also recommend expanding subsonic bullets, to help with better terminal performance.

I have hunted with subs for quite some time in a few calibers, so I fell I have some experience to share.

If your are going to do it, get a setup at close range that allows absolute shot placement. Mine is 56yards to the feeder. Also, I don't like long sleek bullets that are often used in sub loads, yes they have great BC, but also poor performance. Like an "ice pick" in and out.

I have had my best luck with heavy for caliber, wide meplant or almost full wadcutter projectiles, cast lead is fine. These seem to put them down quicker. My favorite after trying many loads is a 250gr full wadcutter in .357 at 1020fps, I wish I had a 44 so I could shoot even bigger bullets! I have begun work up on some 30 cal expanding bullets for the 300BLK, but doubt that they will do much more than the 357 slugs.

I have something to say on this subject but will have to wait to post. I think you guys will find it interesting.

Thanks for the comments. Just to be specific, my RFB is .308.

I'm going to post my story in a separate thread so that this one will not get hijacked.

Agreed

I can't speak for subsonic 308- but I did use subsonic 300blk and had difficulties in recovering hogs, so I went back to supers.

Shot placement is obviously key (ear hole), but with subsonic the bullet drop makes knowing the distance the hog is from you much more important. When spot and stalking it makes it difficult even on the first shot.

However, if shooting exclusively from a stand. You could sight it in for the exact distance to the feeder and you should be in the ball park.

I have heard that people are having better luck with "frangible" rounds I think Leheigh defense makes some.

Anyone have any intel on the new subs from Hornady?

https://www.hornady.com/ammunition/rifle/300-blackout-190-gr-sub-x-subsonic#!/

Looks like that bullet might solve a lot of the issues noted on this thread...assuming Hornady makes it available as a component. Looks to be only available in .300 BLK ammo currently.

I would assume subsonic 300 BLK and 308 to be exactly the same since it's the same bullet and you can only use so much powder to stay subsonic, correct?

Certainly the expanding bullets and frangibles (sp?) help, but I think the core issue remains punch or lack thereof.

I've shot pigs with my .300 blk with the silencerco subs. First those things are extremely accurate (under a 1 in group at 100 yards) and they consistently cycle in my AR. Yes you have to take a headshot but it's easy if you know the distance. As said above, great for a blind, not so easy spot and stalk.

If you are using the same bullet in both the performance will be the same. Subsonic is about 1050 fps or slower. Load a Sierra 220 gr bullet at 1050 fps it doesn't matter if you are using a .300 BLK, .308 or .30-378 Weatherby Mag its still the same bullet at the same speed.

It's more like you are stabbing them with an ice pick than shooting them with a high powered rifle, so shot placement really is key.