Choosing the right cartridge can significantly impact your hunting success and overall shooting experience. Both the .350 Legend and the .35 Remington are popular choices for deer hunting and other applications, but they possess distinct characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences. This in-depth comparison will analyze key factors to help you determine which cartridge is the better fit for you.
Ballistics and Performance: A Head-to-Head
The most significant difference between the .350 Legend and the .35 Remington lies in their ballistic performance. The .350 Legend, a relatively newer cartridge, boasts a higher velocity and flatter trajectory, leading to greater accuracy at longer ranges. This advantage stems from its modern design, optimized for use in shorter-barreled AR-platform rifles.
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.350 Legend: Typically achieves muzzle velocities exceeding 2200 fps with heavier bullets, providing impressive downrange energy and flatter trajectories. This translates to better accuracy and effectiveness on larger game at extended distances.
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.35 Remington: A much older cartridge, it exhibits lower velocities (generally around 2000 fps), resulting in a more pronounced bullet drop and less retained energy at longer ranges. It's more effective at closer ranges.
Recoil and Shootability
While both cartridges are manageable in terms of recoil, the .350 Legend, due to its higher velocity, generally produces slightly more recoil. However, this difference is often subtle and shouldn't deter experienced shooters. For novice shooters or those sensitive to recoil, the .35 Remington might offer a more pleasant shooting experience.
Hunting Applications: Which Cartridge Reigns Supreme?
Both cartridges are suitable for deer hunting, particularly within their effective ranges. However, the .350 Legend's superior ballistics make it a more versatile option for longer shots.
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.350 Legend: Ideal for deer hunting in open areas or when longer shots are anticipated. Its flatter trajectory and higher energy at longer distances offer a significant advantage.
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.35 Remington: Best suited for hunting in denser woods or brush where shots are typically taken at closer ranges. Its manageable recoil and ample stopping power at shorter distances make it a reliable choice.
Availability and Cost: Factors to Consider
The .350 Legend, being a newer cartridge, might be slightly more expensive in terms of ammunition costs, though the price gap isn't usually substantial. Availability of both cartridges generally is good, although specific retailers and regions can vary.
Rifle Selection and Availability
Both cartridges are available in a range of rifles, however the .350 Legend is more commonly found in AR-platform rifles, while the .35 Remington is available in more traditional bolt-action and lever-action rifles. This difference might influence your choice based on your preferred rifle style.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cartridge
Ultimately, the choice between the .350 Legend and the .35 Remington depends on your specific hunting needs and preferences. The .350 Legend offers superior ballistics, making it ideal for longer shots and more open terrain. The .35 Remington, with its manageable recoil and proven effectiveness at closer ranges, remains a reliable choice for hunting in denser cover. Consider the effective range, your shooting style, and your hunting environment when making your decision. Careful consideration of these factors will help you select the cartridge that best meets your needs and ensures a successful hunting experience.
