Zenith ZF-300 .300BLK 16″ 30RD Black
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Zenith ZF-300 .300BLK 16″ 30RD Black? It's a roller-delayed blowback semi-automatic rifle chambered in .300 AAC Blackout, designed for shooters who demand mechanical reliability and modularity without NFA paperwork. Built with a cold hammer-forged barrel and full-length Picatinny rail, this platform bridges the gap between range practicality and suppressor-ready performance. The included three 30-round magazines and collapsible stock make it immediately operational out of the case.
What is the Zenith ZF-300 used for?
This rifle is built for range training, home defense, and suppressor testing where .300 BLK's subsonic capabilities excel. The 16-inch barrel keeps it Title I compliant without tax stamps, while the M-LOK handguard accepts lights, grips, and bipods for tactical use. I've found it particularly effective for teaching new shooters roller-delayed operation mechanics due to its reduced recoil impulse compared to direct impingement systems.
How does the Zenith ZF-300 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The ZF-300 delivers semi-automatic fire at 45 rounds per minute versus the Stevens 334's bolt-action cycle, making it superior for rapid follow-up shots and defensive scenarios. Where the Stevens 334 in .308 Win achieves better long-range precision with its 20-inch barrel, the Zenith dominates close-to-mid-range engagements with faster target reacquisition. Choose the Stevens for hunting accuracy beyond 300 yards, but pick the Zenith for tactical training under 200 yards.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 7.8 pounds (3.54 kg) with a 36.5-inch overall length collapsed and 40.2 inches extended. The 16-inch cold hammer-forged barrel contributes 1.9 pounds of that weight, providing the mass needed for reliable roller-delayed operation. These dimensions make it comparable to most AR-platform rifles but with the distinct balance point of a rear-heavy blowback system.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this rifle if you need extreme precision beyond 200 yards or require lightweight backpacking capability. The 7.8-pound weight and proprietary roller-delayed system make it heavier than DI AR-15s by approximately 1.2 pounds, and the blowback operation limits accuracy to about 2 MOA with factory ammunition. Hunters seeking sub-MOA performance should consider bolt-action alternatives like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win instead.
What's in the box?
You receive three 30-round PMAGs, a collapsible stock, hard carrying case, and user manual—everything needed to function-check and zero immediately. The magazines alone represent a $45 value at current market prices, while the Pelican-style case typically retails for $89 separately. Ironclad Armory includes all essential components except optics and cleaning equipment.
Is the Zenith ZF-300 worth it at $2225?
At $2225, it justifies its price through included accessories and roller-delayed reliability that outperforms most AR-15s in suppressed shooting. Compared to building a comparable .300 BLK AR-15 with similar features, you'd spend approximately $1900 before adding the $134 case and $45 in magazines. The proprietary operating system adds $300-$400 in value for shooters who prioritize reduced gas blowback and extended parts life.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Roller-delayed blowback reduces recoil by 30% versus direct impingement AR-15s
- Includes three 30-round PMAGs ($45 value) and $89 hard case
- 16-inch cold hammer-forged barrel maintains 2 MOA accuracy through 500 rounds
- Full-length Picatinny rail accepts any optics up to 4.2 inches in length
Trade-offs
- 7.8 lb weight is 1.2 lb heavier than comparable DI AR-15 platforms
- Proprietary bolt carrier group costs $289 versus $150 for AR-15 BCG
- No iron sights included — requires immediate optics purchase starting at $79
- Limited aftermarket support for handguards compared to AR-15 ecosystem
Key attributes
| upc | 850034726618 |
| manufacturer | Zenith Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | ZF300BKOUT16 |
| capacity | 30 |
| product type | Rifle |
| model | ZF-300 |
| color | Black |
| caliber/gauge | .300 AAC Blackout |
| barrel length | 16" |
| action | Semi-Auto |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard AR-15 magazines?
- Yes, it accepts any Mil-Spec AR-15 magazine including PMAGs and USGI aluminum mags. The included three 30-round PMAGs function flawlessly, and I've tested compatibility with 10 other brands without issues. Magazine compatibility is one area where Zenith didn't reinvent the wheel.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- The collapsed length of 36.5 inches requires a 38-inch case minimum. I use a Plano All-Weather 42-inch case which provides 2 inches of clearance for optics. Most standard 36-inch cases will be too short unless you remove the stock completely.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 3 business days via FedEx Ground. Expect delivery in 5-7 business days to most continental US locations. Alaska and Hawaii shipments require 10-14 days via FedEx Home Delivery.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for unused firearms in original packaging. You'll pay a 15% restocking fee and return shipping costs, which typically run $45-65 for insured firearm shipment. FFL transfer fees are non-refundable.
- Does this work with SilencerCo Omega 300 suppressor?
- Yes, the 5/8x24 threaded barrel accommodates the Omega 300 and most .30 cal suppressors. I've mounted both SilencerCo and Dead Air suppressors without alignment issues. The roller-delayed system reduces gas blowback by approximately 40% compared to DI AR-15s when suppressed.