Choosing the right cartridge can significantly impact your hunting success and overall shooting experience. The .350 Legend and the .35 Remington are both popular choices for deer hunting and other applications, but they possess distinct characteristics that make them better suited for different situations. This detailed comparison will help you understand the key differences between these two cartridges to make an informed decision.
Ballistics: Power and Performance on the Range
One of the most critical factors to consider when comparing cartridges is their ballistic performance. The .350 Legend, a relatively newer cartridge, boasts a higher velocity and flatter trajectory compared to the .35 Remington. This translates to greater accuracy at longer ranges and improved energy transfer upon impact.
-
.350 Legend: Typically offers muzzle velocities ranging from 2200 to 2400 fps (feet per second) with a flatter trajectory, making it suitable for shots out to 200-300 yards (with appropriate sighting-in and shooter proficiency).
-
.35 Remington: This older cartridge exhibits a lower velocity, generally around 2000 fps, resulting in a more pronounced bullet drop at longer distances. Effective ranges are typically considered to be within 150-200 yards.
This velocity difference also impacts recoil. The .350 Legend, while more powerful, is generally perceived as having manageable recoil for most shooters, especially in AR-15 platforms where its often chambered. The .35 Remington, while less powerful, might still deliver a noticeable kick, especially in lighter weight rifles.
Bullet Selection and Availability
Both cartridges offer a variety of bullet weights and types, catering to different hunting styles and preferences. However, the .350 Legend benefits from the wider availability of modern ammunition designs, owing to its newer introduction. This often translates to more options for bullets optimized for specific hunting needs, like controlled expansion and enhanced penetration.
Recoil and Shootability
As touched upon earlier, recoil is a significant consideration, particularly for new or less experienced shooters. While both cartridges produce recoil, the .350 Legend, due to its higher velocity, will have more noticeable recoil. However, advancements in rifle design and the use of heavier firearms help mitigate the impact. The .35 Remington's lighter recoil might make it a slightly more comfortable choice for extended shooting sessions or for those sensitive to recoil.
Rifle Availability and Cost
The .350 Legend enjoys broader rifle availability, largely due to its popularity in the AR-15 platform. This increases your options for different stock styles, features, and overall rifle customization. Conversely, the .35 Remington is more often chambered in lever-action rifles, presenting a more traditional hunting rifle experience but with a more limited selection.
Regarding ammunition cost, prices can fluctuate, but generally, .350 Legend ammunition might be slightly more expensive than .35 Remington, though this is not always the case and can depend on brand and availability.
Choosing the Right Cartridge: .350 Legend or .35 Remington?
The "better" cartridge truly depends on your specific needs and hunting preferences.
Choose the .350 Legend if:
- You prioritize longer-range accuracy and a flatter trajectory.
- You prefer a wider selection of modern ammunition and rifle platforms.
- You’re comfortable with slightly more recoil.
- You need more stopping power at longer ranges.
Choose the .35 Remington if:
- You prefer a milder recoil experience.
- You value the traditional lever-action rifle experience.
- You're hunting in closer-range situations.
- You prioritize affordability in ammunition.
Ultimately, the best approach is to handle both rifles, if possible, and shoot them to experience the recoil and shooting characteristics firsthand. Consider the type of game you’ll be hunting and the typical distances involved in your hunting scenarios. This careful consideration will help you determine which cartridge best aligns with your individual needs and hunting style.
