The World of Thirty-Five Caliber Rifles
The .35 caliber rifles offer a balance of power and practicality that appeals to many outdoor enthusiasts. These rifles are often praised for their ability to deliver a significant punch on target while still being manageable to shoot. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, understanding the characteristics of the .35 caliber options is crucial.
The 35 Remington: A Classic for Close Encounters
The 35 Remington, a cartridge that has stood the test of time, boasts a rich history and a reputation for delivering solid performance in the field. Its origins trace back to the early twentieth century, developed by the Remington Arms Company. The 35 Remington was primarily designed for use in lever-action rifles, and it gained popularity as a versatile option for deer hunting and similar game. Its moderate recoil and compact size made it particularly well-suited for hunters seeking a rifle that was easy to handle and maneuver in various terrains. The 35 Remington found its way into classic rifles like the Remington Model 8 and the Marlin 336. These firearms, still sought after today, are often seen as symbols of classic American hunting.
The specifications of the 35 Remington cartridge are central to understanding its performance. The cartridge typically uses bullets in the range of one hundred fifty to two hundred grains, offering a wide selection for hunters. These bullets, traveling at respectable velocities, create substantial stopping power at closer ranges. The case capacity is relatively smaller compared to more modern, high-powered cartridges, which means the effective range is more limited. The cartridge excels in wooded areas and those scenarios where shots are taken at moderate distances.
When we talk about the rifle platforms for the 35 Remington, the Marlin 336 and Remington Model 8 are prominent examples. These rifles have established strong reputations for reliability and accuracy. The availability of rifles chambered in 35 Remington remains decent, and ammunition remains available from multiple manufacturers.
The 35 Remington does have its advantages. The compact size of both the cartridge and the rifles, like the Marlin, allows for easy maneuvering in tight spaces like dense forests. The relatively low recoil makes the rifle a joy to shoot. The cartridge shines in close to medium range hunting applications, making it a solid choice for deer, black bear, and other medium-sized game.
However, the 35 Remington isn’t perfect. The range is a bit limited when compared to more modern cartridges. The amount of powder that can be packed into the cartridge is less, resulting in lower muzzle velocities. Because of these factors, it is best used in scenarios with moderate distances.
The 35 Whelen: A Hard-Hitting Powerhouse
The 35 Whelen, a cartridge designed to deliver impressive power, emerged later. It was conceived by gunsmith James E. Whelen, who was inspired by the success of the .30-06 Springfield. Whelen took a .30-06 case and necked it up to accept .358-inch bullets. The 35 Whelen cartridge gained immediate appeal because of its enhanced stopping power. It’s been adopted as a good choice for larger game like elk and bear.
The specifications of the 35 Whelen offer an insight into its capabilities. The cartridge utilizes a larger case, allowing for a greater amount of powder. This translates to higher velocities and significantly improved long-range performance. Bullet weights typically range from two hundred to two hundred fifty grains, generating a considerable amount of energy on impact.
Rifle platforms chambered in 35 Whelen include a broad range of choices, ranging from the Remington Model 700 to the Ruger Hawkeye. The 35 Whelen has a loyal following and rifle and ammunition availability is generally excellent.
The 35 Whelen boasts a number of advantages. It delivers more power and a longer effective range, making it an ideal selection for hunting larger game. The energy it generates is more effective at taking down big animals. For hunters targeting elk, moose, and larger bears, the 35 Whelen is an excellent choice.
But this cartridge is not perfect. The recoil is more significant than the 35 Remington, which might make it less pleasant to shoot for some. The larger case often means that the rifle itself will be larger and heavier. Finally, the enhanced power comes with more demands on the shooter, making it better suited for experienced hunters.
A Direct Comparison: Two Sides of the Same Caliber
Let’s now turn our attention to a more direct comparison of the two cartridges.
A simple look at the two cartridges makes the visual differences clear. The 35 Whelen has a noticeably larger case, reflecting its greater powder capacity. The 35 Remington has a more compact profile. This difference is fundamental to the two cartridges’ ballistic performance.
Ballistic charts can provide a more detailed comparison. The 35 Whelen, with its larger powder charge, typically offers a significantly flatter trajectory at longer distances. The 35 Remington has a noticeable drop over the same range.
The 35 Whelen excels at longer ranges, thanks to its higher energy and flatter trajectory. The 35 Remington is more ideally suited for those close to medium range encounters where the flatter trajectory is not as critical. Ethical hunting practices dictate that hunters know their effective range and shot placement.
The recoil of each cartridge varies significantly. The 35 Remington has much lower felt recoil, making it a comfortable option for many shooters. The 35 Whelen kicks harder, something to consider for less experienced shooters. The ease of shooting directly impacts the ability to make accurate follow-up shots.
The choice of intended game plays a significant role in deciding which cartridge is right. The 35 Remington performs well on deer, black bear, and similar-sized game. The 35 Whelen can comfortably handle larger game animals.
Selecting the Right Rifle: A Practical Approach
How do you make the right selection between these two cartridges?
You must consider your specific hunting needs. What animals are you going to hunt? What are the typical ranges that you expect to take shots at? What kind of terrain will you be in? The answers to these questions will guide your final selection.
The experience level of the shooter is a factor. Hunters new to the sport might want to start with the 35 Remington because of its lower recoil. Those with more experience may enjoy the higher energy delivered by the 35 Whelen.
You must also consider your budget and the availability of ammunition and rifles. While both cartridges have rifles and ammunition readily available, costs can vary. The best selection is based on the balance of these factors.
So, which cartridge is the best? For the hunter who primarily targets deer, black bear, and similar game at close to moderate ranges, the 35 Remington is an excellent choice. For the hunter who wants more power for larger animals at longer ranges, the 35 Whelen might be a better fit.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, both the 35 Remington and the 35 Whelen bring their unique strengths to the world of hunting rifles. The 35 Remington offers a manageable platform and is perfect for close to moderate range game. The 35 Whelen brings the power required for hunting larger game at greater distances. Careful consideration of your personal needs will guide you to the right selection.
The choice between the 35 Remington and the 35 Whelen is a decision that will come down to your personal needs and preferences. Whatever choice you make, you can rest assured that you’re choosing a solid performer in the world of .35 caliber hunting.
A Hunter’s Guide
Remember that ethical hunting is always the priority. Practice regularly and be sure to understand the limitations of your chosen cartridge. Happy hunting.
