Choosing the right cartridge for hunting can be a daunting task, especially when faced with similar options like the .35 Remington and the 350 Legend. Both offer substantial stopping power in a manageable platform, but their differences are significant enough to impact your hunting success. This in-depth comparison will explore the key distinctions between these two popular calibers, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific hunting needs and preferences.
Ballistics and Performance: Where They Differ
The core differences between the .35 Remington and 350 Legend lie in their ballistics and resulting performance. While both fire .35 caliber bullets, the 350 Legend boasts a noticeably higher velocity, leading to a flatter trajectory and greater effective range.
Velocity and Energy:
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350 Legend: Generally launches bullets at velocities exceeding 2200 fps (feet per second), generating significantly higher energy upon impact. This translates to a flatter trajectory, meaning less bullet drop at longer ranges, and increased penetration.
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.35 Remington: Offers a lower muzzle velocity, typically ranging from 1900-2100 fps, resulting in a more pronounced bullet drop at longer distances. While still powerful, its energy transfer is less than the 350 Legend.
Recoil:
The higher velocity of the 350 Legend does contribute to more felt recoil than the .35 Remington. While manageable for most shooters, this difference is worth considering, especially for less experienced hunters or those sensitive to recoil.
Effective Range:
Due to its higher velocity and flatter trajectory, the 350 Legend boasts a considerably longer effective range, particularly for accurate shot placement. The .35 Remington, while effective at closer ranges, is best suited for hunting within its shorter effective range.
Cartridge Availability and Cost: Factors to Consider
Beyond ballistic performance, the availability and cost of ammunition are crucial factors in your decision-making process.
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350 Legend: As a newer cartridge, availability might be slightly more limited in some areas, particularly in smaller towns or rural regions. However, its popularity is steadily growing, and ammunition is generally becoming more widely available.
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.35 Remington: Being a more established cartridge, the .35 Remington enjoys wider availability across most retailers. Moreover, its longer history generally translates to a wider selection of ammunition types, including various bullet weights and designs. Often, this translates to a slightly lower cost per round.
Rifle Selection: A Critical Component
The choice of rifle platform plays a crucial role in your hunting experience.
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350 Legend: Many modern sporting rifles are chambered in 350 Legend, offering features like lightweight construction, adjustable stocks, and Picatinny rails for optics mounting. This newer platform often incorporates modern design elements.
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.35 Remington: More commonly found in lever-action rifles, although some bolt-action options exist. Lever-action rifles often offer a faster follow-up shot capability.
Hunting Applications: Ideal Scenarios
The best cartridge ultimately depends on your hunting goals and the game you intend to pursue.
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350 Legend: Ideal for deer hunting at moderate ranges, particularly in situations where a flatter trajectory and increased range are advantageous. Its higher energy makes it suitable for larger deer species as well, within its effective range.
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.35 Remington: Excellent for deer hunting at closer ranges within its optimal effective range, offering sufficient stopping power for most deer species. Its lighter recoil can be preferable for younger hunters or those preferring a gentler shooting experience.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Both the .35 Remington and the 350 Legend are capable cartridges for deer hunting. The 350 Legend's higher velocity and flatter trajectory offer advantages at longer ranges, making it suitable for hunters who require more reach. The .35 Remington, with its lower recoil and wider availability, remains a reliable choice for hunters preferring a gentler shooting experience and prioritizing readily available ammunition. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual hunting style, preferences, and the specific circumstances of your hunts. Consider your hunting style, typical shot distances, and budget when making your final decision.
