Description
Hornady engineered this 7.62×39 subsonic load for situations where you need stealth without sacrificing power. The 255-grain Sub-X bullet is a purpose-built design that handles the challenge of expanding reliably at low velocities, something standard bullets struggle with. Instead of a sharp, pointed tip, the Flex Tip insert sits in the hollowpoint cavity and forces controlled expansion when it meets its target. Long grooves running down the gilding metal jacket work together with the bullet's flat profile to achieve consistent results across a wide range of target materials.
What Makes Hornady Subsonic 7.62×39 Different
Loading a 7.62×39 subsonic isn't just about slowing things down. Hornady selected specific powders optimized for subsonic velocities, which means you get a low-flash signature and consistent burn whether you're running suppressed or not. The brass cases are quality-controlled for uniformity, and the primers are non-corrosive. Everything from the components to the powder selection comes from Hornady's commitment to lot-to-lot consistency, so you get predictable performance shot to shot. At 1050 feet per second from a 20-inch barrel, this round delivers 624 foot-pounds of energy, which makes it effective for medium game hunting and target work where you want precision without the noise.
Subsonic Performance You Can Rely On
If you're running a suppressor, this load gets genuinely quiet because there's no supersonic crack to suppress. Without one, it's still notably quieter than standard 7.62×39 loads. The Flex Tip technology has proven reliable in FBI protocol terminal ballistic testing, meaning the expansion you need actually happens downrange. This ammunition suits hunters working close range in noise-sensitive situations, people practicing with reduced report, and anyone wanting to maintain accuracy and lethality without disturbing their surroundings.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: 7.62x39mm
- Bullet Weight: 255 Grains
- Bullet Type: Sub-X Jacketed Hollow Point with Flex Tip
- Muzzle Velocity: 1050 fps
- Muzzle Energy: 624 ft-lbs
- Case Material: Brass
- Primer Type: Non-Corrosive
- Ballistic Coefficient (G1): 0.365
- Rounds per Box: 20
- Manufacturer: Hornady Manufacturing Company
- Part Number: 80787
- UPC: 090255807875
- Recommended Barrel Length: 20 inches
- Application: Hunting, Target Shooting, Suppressed Firearms
What’s Included
- 20 rounds of Hornady Subsonic 7.62x39mm ammunition
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Hornady Subsonic 7.62x39mm cycle in semi-automatic rifles?
Cycling depends on your specific firearm and gas system. Many modern semi-auto platforms designed for heavier 7.62×39 loads will cycle these rounds, especially when paired with a suppressor which provides back pressure. Bolt-action rifles will cycle it reliably regardless. If you have a standard-tuned AK without adjustable components, expect potential reliability issues without a suppressor.
What's the advantage of the patented Flex Tip on these bullets?
The Flex Tip sits inside the hollowpoint cavity and forces reliable expansion when the bullet meets its target, even at the lower velocities subsonic ammunition travels. This matters because regular hollow point bullets often fail to open up properly below supersonic speeds. The design ensures the terminal ballistics stay consistent and effective.
How much quieter is this ammunition with a suppressor?
Without a suppressor, subsonic 7.62×39 is noticeably quieter than supersonic loads because there's no sonic crack from the bullet breaking the sound barrier. When you add a quality suppressor, you eliminate that remaining report almost entirely, making it one of the quietest rifle cartridges you can shoot. The low-flash powder Hornady selected also works well with suppressor technology.
Is Hornady Subsonic 7.62x39mm good for hunting?
Yes, it's well-suited for hunting medium-sized game at closer ranges, which is where subsonic ammunition makes the most sense anyway. The 255-grain Sub-X bullet provides reliable expansion and deep penetration for effective terminal performance on deer, hogs, and similar game. The reduced noise helps maintain stealth in the field without sacrificing the lethal effect you need.





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