Choosing the right cartridge for hunting or recreational shooting can be a daunting task. Two popular choices often compared are the 350 Legend and the .35 Remington. While both offer similar bullet diameters, their performance and applications differ significantly. This detailed comparison will explore the key differences between these two rounds, helping you make an informed decision based on your needs.
What is the 350 Legend?
The 350 Legend, introduced by Winchester in 2019, is a relatively new cartridge designed specifically for modern sporting rifles (MSRs). Its popularity stems from its versatility, suitability for deer hunting, and availability in readily adaptable AR-15 platforms. Its straight-walled design allows for use in states with restrictions on bottleneck cartridges for hunting. The 350 Legend offers manageable recoil, making it a great option for newer shooters.
What is the .35 Remington?
The .35 Remington, on the other hand, is a much older cartridge, having been introduced in 1930. It's a lever-action cartridge known for its robust performance in larger game hunting. Its longer, bottlenecked case contributes to greater velocity and energy compared to the 350 Legend, but it also produces more recoil. While not as widely available in AR-15 style platforms, it remains a favorite for hunters who prefer traditional lever-action rifles.
350 Legend vs. .35 Remington: Key Differences
| Feature | 350 Legend | .35 Remington |
|---|---|---|
| Case Type | Straight-walled | Bottlenecked |
| Recoil | Moderate | Higher |
| Velocity | Lower (generally around 2200 fps) | Higher (generally around 2100-2300 fps) |
| Energy | Lower | Higher |
| Rifle Type | Primarily AR-15 style rifles | Primarily lever-action rifles |
| Applications | Deer hunting, target shooting | Deer hunting, larger game (depending on bullet selection) |
| Availability | Widely available | Readily available, but perhaps less so than 350 Legend |
Which Cartridge is Right for You?
The best cartridge depends on your priorities and intended use.
For Beginners and AR-15 Enthusiasts: 350 Legend
The 350 Legend's milder recoil and widespread availability in AR-15 platforms make it an excellent choice for beginners and those who prefer the ergonomics and modularity of AR-style rifles. Its performance is adequate for deer hunting within reasonable ranges.
For Experienced Hunters Preferring Traditional Rifles: .35 Remington
The .35 Remington, with its higher energy and velocity, is better suited for experienced hunters who prefer lever-action rifles and may be hunting larger game or at longer ranges. However, its greater recoil requires more practice to master.
What is the Effective Range of Each Cartridge?
The effective range of both cartridges depends heavily on bullet selection and shooter skill. Generally, the 350 Legend's effective range for deer hunting is considered to be within 200-250 yards, while the .35 Remington, with its higher energy, may extend that range somewhat, but proper shot placement is crucial regardless of the cartridge.
Which Cartridge Has More Recoil?
The .35 Remington generally has more recoil than the 350 Legend. This is due to the higher velocity and energy of the .35 Remington round.
What are the Different Applications for Each Cartridge?
Both cartridges are primarily used for deer hunting. However, the 350 Legend is increasingly popular for target shooting due to its lower recoil and readily available ammunition. The .35 Remington, with its greater power, can be effective on larger game than deer, depending on bullet choice and shot placement.
Conclusion
The 350 Legend and .35 Remington each offer distinct advantages. The 350 Legend is a modern, versatile cartridge perfect for new shooters and those embracing the AR-15 platform. The .35 Remington, a proven performer, retains its place for hunters seeking a powerful round in a classic lever-action rifle. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual hunting style, experience level, and firearm preference.
