The 350 Legend cartridge has quickly gained popularity among hunters and shooters for its potent performance and versatility. For those looking to reload their own ammunition, understanding the nuances of bullet selection and load development is crucial for achieving optimal accuracy and effectiveness. This guide focuses specifically on reloading 180-grain bullets for the 350 Legend, covering key considerations and best practices.
Choosing the Right 180-Grain Bullet for 350 Legend Reloading
Selecting the appropriate 180-grain bullet is the foundation of successful reloading. Several factors influence your choice:
Bullet Type:
- Lead Core: These are generally less expensive but require a harder alloy to withstand the pressures generated by the 350 Legend. They may also lead the barrel more readily if not properly sized.
- Copper or Jacketed Bullets: These offer superior accuracy, higher ballistic coefficients (BC), and better barrel life. Jacketed bullets are usually the preferred choice for the 350 Legend, especially at higher velocities. Consider bullets with a bonded core for improved expansion at longer ranges.
- Bullet Design: The bullet's design heavily impacts its performance. Consider:
- Flat-nosed bullets: Provide excellent stopping power at close range.
- Round-nosed bullets: Offer good accuracy and moderate expansion.
- Spitzer bullets: Provide longer range and flatter trajectories, sacrificing some stopping power at close range.
Bullet Construction:
- Bonded Core: These bullets hold together better during impact, leading to consistent expansion and deeper penetration. This is a particularly good choice for hunting applications.
- Solid Copper: While expensive, solid copper bullets are environmentally friendly and offer excellent weight retention, creating less risk of fragmenting.
Reloading 180-Grain 350 Legend: A Step-by-Step Guide
Reloading requires precision and careful attention to detail. Always consult your reloading manual for specific data and safety precautions. This section provides a general overview:
1. Gather Your Supplies:
- Reloading Press: A single-stage or progressive press will work.
- Dies: A three-die set (sizing, powder, and bullet seating) is necessary.
- Case Trimmer: To ensure consistent case length.
- Powder Measure: For accurate powder dispensing.
- Scale: To double-check powder charges.
- Bullet Seating Die: Specifically designed for 180-grain bullets.
- Cases: Clean, inspected, and properly sized 350 Legend brass.
- Powder: Choose a powder suitable for the 350 Legend and 180-grain bullet. Consult reloading manuals for appropriate powder types and charges.
- Primers: Small rifle primers are typically used.
- 180-Grain Bullets: Your chosen bullet type.
- Case Lubricant: To help resize the brass smoothly.
2. Prepare Your Cases:
- Clean: Remove all dirt and debris from spent cases.
- Trim: Ensure all cases are the same length to prevent inconsistent pressure.
- Deburr: Remove any sharp edges from the case mouth.
- Resize: Resize the cases to ensure proper chambering.
3. Charge with Powder:
- Measure: Carefully measure the powder charge for each case using your powder measure and scale. Always double-check your powder charge. Incorrect powder charges can lead to dangerous pressure increases.
- Consistency is Key: Maintain precise powder measurements to ensure consistent velocity and accuracy.
4. Prime Your Cases:
- Seat Primers: Carefully seat the primers using the priming tool.
5. Seat Your Bullets:
- Adjust Seating Depth: Adjust your bullet seating die to achieve the desired bullet seating depth (OAL). Consult your reloading manual for recommended OAL.
6. Final Inspection:
- Check OAL: Ensure all rounds have the same overall length (OAL).
- Inspect for Defects: Look for any abnormalities before loading the rounds into your firearm.
Safety Precautions:
Reloading is inherently dangerous. Always prioritize safety. Never exceed maximum recommended powder charges and always wear safety glasses. Consult your reloading manual for complete safety information.
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your reloading manual and follow safe reloading practices. Improper reloading can result in serious injury or death.
