The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - Which cartridge for lots of flexibility (subsonic)?

Poodleshooter · October 20, 2011, 01:49 PM

.44 magnum in the Encore.
The stock load for my 310gr Lee RNFPGC tops out around 1100fps, just on the transonic edge.

1. It's subsonic with any load you care to make it subsonic with, and most importantly: the stock barrel is more likely to stabilize most of the subsonic loadings because they're closer to standard performance. That's going to be critical if you plan to suppress it. Using rifle cartridges with subsonic loads and a standard twist is always a bit iffy for stabilization. Suppressor baffles won't tolerate that. This is also a good argument for the .45ACP, .45 Colt,etc.
2. Bullet weights for .429"-.430" vary from 180grs to at least 310grs if not more.
3. Brass is easily available and can last a loooong time if loaded light.
4. Components are easily available. You can cast the bullets easily (though also true for most of the other rounds). The barrel is easily available from TC , and is not a custom chambering.
5. This is the tricky part. To my knowledge there aren't any .44Mag suppressors available. However the T/C barrel is threadable, and possibly a durable steel or titanium .45ACP suppressor could be used for subsonic loads only, if the manufacturer vettes it.

October 20, 2011, 01:49 PM	#45
Poodleshooter Senior Member Join Date: August 7, 2000 Location: Floating down the James River in VA Posts: 2,599	.44 magnum in the Encore. The stock load for my 310gr Lee RNFPGC tops out around 1100fps, just on the transonic edge. 1. It's subsonic with any load you care to make it subsonic with, and most importantly: the stock barrel is more likely to stabilize most of the subsonic loadings because they're closer to standard performance. That's going to be critical if you plan to suppress it. Using rifle cartridges with subsonic loads and a standard twist is always a bit iffy for stabilization. Suppressor baffles won't tolerate that. This is also a good argument for the .45ACP, .45 Colt,etc. 2. Bullet weights for .429"-.430" vary from 180grs to at least 310grs if not more. 3. Brass is easily available and can last a loooong time if loaded light. 4. Components are easily available. You can cast the bullets easily (though also true for most of the other rounds). The barrel is easily available from TC , and is not a custom chambering. 5. This is the tricky part. To my knowledge there aren't any .44Mag suppressors available. However the T/C barrel is threadable, and possibly a durable steel or titanium .45ACP suppressor could be used for subsonic loads only, if the manufacturer vettes it.