Nighthawk Custom 30 Super Carry: A Deep Dive into the New Cartridge and Pistols
As a long-time firearms enthusiast and someone who spends a significant amount of time in the outdoors – guiding trips, reviewing gear, and generally appreciating responsible self-defense options – I’ve been closely following the emergence of the 30 Super Carry cartridge. Specifically, the Nighthawk Custom 30 Super Carry pistols have generated a lot of buzz. This isn’t just another new round; it’s a potential game-changer for concealed carry, offering a compelling balance of power, capacity, and manageable recoil. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 30 Super Carry, the Nighthawk pistols chambered for it, and how it stacks up against established options like 9mm. We’ll cover ballistics, pistol reviews, cost considerations, and whether this cartridge is right for you.
What is the 30 Super Carry Round?
Developed by Buffalo Bore Ammunition (Buffalo Bore), the 30 Super Carry is a relatively new cartridge designed to bridge the gap between 9mm and .30 caliber rounds. It’s based on a modified 9mm case, necked out to accept a .308 diameter bullet. This allows for higher energy transfer and greater stopping power than 9mm, while remaining relatively compact and fitting into standard 9mm magazine wells with minor modifications. The goal was to create a cartridge that delivers more performance than 9mm, without the increased recoil and larger frame size typically associated with .40 S&W or .45 ACP.
30 Super Carry Ballistics: Performance Numbers
The 30 Super Carry ballistics gel results are impressive. Typically, it launches a 150-grain bullet at around 1,250-1,300 feet per second, generating approximately 400-450 foot-pounds of energy. Compared to 9mm, which generally produces around 350-400 foot-pounds of energy, the 30 Super Carry offers a noticeable increase in stopping power. However, it’s crucial to remember that ballistics are just one piece of the puzzle; shot placement remains paramount. You can find detailed ballistic data on websites like Ballistics by the Inch.
Super 30 vs 9mm: A Direct Comparison
Let's break down the super 30 vs 9mm debate. Here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | 9mm | 30 Super Carry |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Energy (ft-lbs) | 350-400 | 400-450 |
| Typical Bullet Weight (gr) | 115-147 | 150 |
| Recoil | Moderate | Slightly More Than 9mm |
| Magazine Capacity (Typical) | 15-17 | 13-15 |
| Ammo Cost | Generally Lower | Generally Higher |
As you can see, the 30 Super Carry offers a performance advantage, but comes with a slight trade-off in magazine capacity and potentially higher ammunition costs. The 30 super carry ammo price vs 9mm is currently higher, but as production ramps up, we can expect to see prices become more competitive.
Nighthawk Custom Pistols in 30 Super Carry: A Review
Nighthawk Custom has quickly become a leading manufacturer of pistols chambered in 30 Super Carry. They offer several models, including the Agent 2 Gold, Treasurer, and President, all built on their renowned 1911 platform. I’ve had the opportunity to spend considerable time with the Nighthawk Custom Agent 2 Gold and the Nighthawk Custom Treasurer, and I’m impressed with the quality and craftsmanship.
Nighthawk Custom Agent 2 Gold: A Compact Carry Option
The Agent 2 Gold is a compact 1911, making it ideal for concealed carry. It features a lightweight aluminum frame and a 3-inch barrel. The 1911 carry cut design, with its reduced grip profile, enhances concealability without sacrificing shootability. The fit and finish are exceptional, as you’d expect from Nighthawk Custom. Recoil with the 30 Super Carry is manageable, thanks to the pistol’s weight and the cartridge’s relatively flat recoil impulse.
Nighthawk Custom Treasurer: A Full-Size Powerhouse
The Treasurer is a full-size 1911, offering a longer sight radius and increased stability. It’s a great option for those who prefer a larger pistol for range work or home defense. Like the Agent 2 Gold, the Treasurer boasts Nighthawk Custom’s signature quality and attention to detail. The longer barrel and heavier weight further mitigate recoil, making it a comfortable shooter. The Nighthawk Custom Treasurer is a premium pistol with a price tag to match.
Nighthawk 1911 California & Other Models
Nighthawk Custom also offers models specifically configured to meet California’s stringent firearms regulations, such as the Nighthawk 1911 California. They also produce other 1911 variants, including the President and Bull Commander, some of which are available in 30 Super Carry. The Nighthawk 1911 President is a full-featured 1911 with a long list of premium features.
Why Carry a 1911 in 30 Super Carry?
The question isn’t just about the cartridge, but also the platform. Why carry a 1911? For many, it comes down to ergonomics, trigger quality, and the inherent accuracy of the 1911 design. The single-action trigger is renowned for its crispness and predictability. The 1911’s grip angle is also favored by many shooters. Combining the 1911 platform with the 30 Super Carry offers a compelling combination of performance and shootability. The 1911 for carry is a classic choice, and the 30 Super Carry adds a modern performance upgrade.
30 Super Carry Recoil: Is it Manageable?
One of the biggest concerns with a more powerful cartridge is recoil. The 30 super carry recoil is noticeably more than 9mm, but it’s generally considered manageable, especially in a full-size 1911. The 30 Super Carry’s recoil impulse is relatively flat, meaning it pushes straight back rather than up and down, which helps to reduce muzzle flip. Proper grip technique and practice are essential, as with any firearm.
30 Super Carry vs. Other Options: Revolvers and Glock
While Nighthawk Custom currently dominates the 30 Super Carry pistol market, other manufacturers are exploring the cartridge. There’s been some discussion about a potential 30 super carry revolver, but currently, options are limited. The biggest question mark is whether Glock will chamber a pistol for the 30 Super Carry. A 30 super carry glock would undoubtedly be a popular option, given Glock’s widespread popularity and affordability. However, Glock typically takes a conservative approach to adopting new cartridges.
Cost Considerations: Ammo and Pistols
The 30 super carry guns price is generally higher than comparable 9mm pistols. Nighthawk Custom pistols are premium firearms, and the 30 Super Carry chambering adds to the cost. As mentioned earlier, 30 super carry ammo price vs 9mm is currently higher, but this is expected to change as production increases. It’s important to factor in the ongoing cost of ammunition when choosing a cartridge.
Final Thoughts: Is the 30 Super Carry Right for You?
The Nighthawk Custom 30 Super Carry pistols and the cartridge itself represent a significant development in the world of concealed carry. It offers a compelling balance of power, capacity, and manageability. If you’re looking for a step up in performance from 9mm, and you appreciate the 1911 platform, the 30 Super Carry is definitely worth considering. However, it’s important to weigh the cost of ammunition and the potential for limited availability. As always, responsible gun ownership, proper training, and adherence to all applicable laws are paramount. For more information on responsible firearms ownership, check out resources from the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) and your state’s attorney general’s office. And remember to practice safe gun handling and follow the principles of Leave No Trace (Leave No Trace) when shooting outdoors.
Disclaimer: I am not a firearms instructor. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional training. Always consult with a qualified firearms instructor before handling any firearm.