The 350 Legend cartridge has quickly gained popularity among hunters and shooters, offering a potent blend of power and versatility. This in-depth review delves into the performance characteristics, practical applications, and overall value of rifles chambered in 350 Legend. We'll explore why this cartridge is a compelling choice for various hunting scenarios and recreational shooting.
Understanding the 350 Legend Cartridge
The 350 Legend (.350 Legend) was designed as a relatively short-range hunting cartridge, particularly suitable for deer hunting within its effective range. It's a straight-walled cartridge, meaning the case doesn't taper, making it legal in many states that restrict the use of bottlenecked cartridges for hunting. This makes it ideal for hunters in regions with such regulations.
Key Features of the 350 Legend:
- Straight-walled case: Facilitates reliable feeding and function in AR-15 style platforms.
- Moderate recoil: Makes it easier to shoot accurately, particularly for newer shooters.
- Flatter trajectory: Offers better accuracy at longer ranges compared to some other straight-walled cartridges.
- Sufficient stopping power: Effective for deer-sized game within its effective range.
- Relatively inexpensive ammunition: Compared to some more specialized cartridges.
Ballistic Performance and Effective Range
The 350 Legend's ballistic performance is a key factor in its appeal. While not a long-range cartridge, it provides adequate energy for ethical deer hunting within its effective range, generally considered to be around 200-250 yards. Beyond this distance, energy drop and trajectory become less predictable.
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 150 | 2200 | 1600 |
| 180 | 2000 | 1800 |
(Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on ammunition manufacturer and barrel length.) Always consult your specific ammunition's ballistic data for accurate information.
Rifle Platforms and Accessories
The 350 Legend cartridge is most commonly found in AR-15 platform rifles. This allows for easy customization and the availability of a wide range of accessories. You can find everything from basic hunting rifles to more specialized tactical models.
Popular Rifle Features:
- AR-15 platform: Offers modularity, allowing users to tailor the rifle to their specific needs.
- Various barrel lengths: Shorter barrels are more compact and portable, while longer barrels often offer improved accuracy and velocity.
- Adjustable stocks: Provide a customizable fit for shooters of different sizes.
- Optics compatibility: Allows for the easy mounting of scopes or red dot sights.
Practical Applications and Hunting Scenarios
The 350 Legend excels in several hunting scenarios:
- Whitetail deer hunting: Within its effective range, it delivers enough energy for clean kills.
- Hog hunting: The cartridge's power makes it effective for controlling hog populations.
- Predator hunting (coyotes, bobcats): Suitable for taking down these smaller animals.
- Close-range hunting: Its manageable recoil makes it ideal for hunting in dense brush or wooded areas where longer shots are less frequent.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the 350 Legend
Advantages:
- Straight-walled case legality: Compliant with straight-walled cartridge regulations in many states.
- Moderate recoil: Easier to shoot accurately, especially for beginners.
- Relatively inexpensive ammunition: More affordable than some comparable hunting cartridges.
- Versatile platform: Can be used in AR-15-style rifles, offering customization options.
- Sufficient power for deer-sized game: Effective for its intended hunting applications.
Disadvantages:
- Limited effective range: Not suitable for long-range shots.
- Not ideal for larger game: Not recommended for elk, moose, or other large animals.
- Ammunition availability: While becoming more widespread, may still be less readily available than more common calibers.
Choosing the Right 350 Legend Rifle
Several manufacturers produce high-quality 350 Legend rifles. Consider the following factors when making your choice:
- Barrel length: Shorter barrels are more portable but may sacrifice some velocity, while longer barrels offer improved accuracy and potentially increased velocity.
- Stock type: Adjustable stocks allow for a custom fit, while fixed stocks are simpler and often more affordable.
- Accessories: Consider the need for optics, sling mounts, and other accessories.
- Overall build quality: Choose a rifle from a reputable manufacturer with a proven track record.
Conclusion: Is the 350 Legend Right for You?
The 350 Legend offers a compelling combination of power, accuracy, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for hunters who need a straight-walled cartridge within its limitations. Its relatively low recoil and affordable ammunition make it accessible to a broader range of shooters. If you're looking for a reliable, effective cartridge for deer hunting and other close-to-medium-range applications, the 350 Legend deserves serious consideration. However, remember to always practice safe gun handling and adhere to all applicable hunting regulations.