The .35 Remington, a venerable cartridge with a rich history, has seen a resurgence in popularity thanks to advancements like the Hornady Leverevolution ammunition. This isn't your grandfather's .35 Remington; Leverevolution offers significantly improved ballistic performance, making it a compelling choice for a range of hunting and shooting applications. This detailed analysis will explore the characteristics, advantages, and limitations of the .35 Remington Hornady Leverevolution round.
Understanding the Hornady Leverevolution Advantage
Hornady's Leverevolution ammunition utilizes a unique design incorporating a polymer-tipped bullet. This isn't simply an aesthetic choice; the polymer tip plays a crucial role in several key performance enhancements:
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Increased Ballistic Coefficient: The polymer tip reduces drag, allowing the bullet to maintain velocity and accuracy over longer ranges compared to traditional .35 Remington rounds. This translates to flatter trajectories and improved downrange energy.
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Reduced Recoil: While not drastically less than standard .35 Remington, the improved ballistic performance contributes to a more manageable recoil impulse, making it more pleasant to shoot, especially during extended sessions.
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Enhanced Accuracy: The aerodynamic design of the bullet promotes greater stability in flight, contributing to enhanced accuracy at various distances. This is particularly beneficial for hunters aiming for precise shots on game.
Ballistic Performance Comparison
While precise ballistic data can vary based on barrel length, twist rate, and environmental factors, a general comparison highlights the significant improvement Leverevolution brings to the .35 Remington. Expect significantly higher velocities and flatter trajectories compared to older, full-metal-jacket rounds. This improved performance extends effective hunting ranges considerably.
Ideal Applications for the .35 Remington Leverevolution
The enhanced performance of Leverevolution opens up a wider array of hunting possibilities for the .35 Remington:
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Deer Hunting: The .35 Remington Leverevolution is an excellent choice for deer hunting within its effective range. The increased energy and accuracy provide ethical and humane shot placement.
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Brush Hunting: The flatter trajectory is particularly beneficial in dense brush where longer shots might be necessary. The bullet's design also helps it penetrate brush effectively.
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Big Game Hunting (with caveats): While suitable for smaller to medium-sized big game, ethical shot placement is paramount. Understanding the limitations of the cartridge's range and energy is crucial. Consult with experienced hunters and game wardens before using it for larger animals.
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Target Shooting: The improved accuracy makes Leverevolution a viable option for target practice and improving marksmanship skills with the .35 Remington platform.
Considerations and Limitations
While Leverevolution significantly improves the .35 Remington, it's essential to understand its limitations:
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Cost: Leverevolution ammunition generally costs more than traditional .35 Remington rounds.
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Availability: While becoming increasingly common, it might not be as readily available as standard .35 Remington ammunition in all locations.
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Overpenetration: The high-velocity, polymer-tipped bullet can potentially lead to overpenetration, requiring careful shot placement and consideration of the surrounding environment.
Conclusion: A Modernized Classic
The Hornady Leverevolution .35 Remington represents a significant advancement for this classic cartridge. The improvements in ballistic performance, accuracy, and reduced recoil make it a highly attractive option for hunters and shooters alike. While cost and availability are factors to consider, the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks, making the .35 Remington Leverevolution a potent and versatile choice for various applications. Always prioritize safe gun handling practices, understand your firearm's capabilities, and respect the game you pursue.
