Understanding the 350 Legend
History and Development
The genesis of the 350 Legend lies in a specific need: compliance with regulations. Designed primarily by Winchester, this cartridge was conceived to cater to the growing number of states that mandated straight-wall cartridges for hunting. These regulations often aimed to improve safety and limit the range of shots in areas with high population densities. The challenge was to develop a cartridge that delivered effective performance while adhering to these strict parameters.
Cartridge Specifications
The 350 Legend’s foundation is its distinct case design. It’s a straight-walled cartridge, meaning the sides of the brass case are parallel rather than tapered. This design is essential for meeting straight-wall requirements. The bullet diameter is a substantial .357 inches, and the cartridge is typically loaded with bullet weights ranging from 125 grains to over 200 grains. The powder capacity allows for good velocity and downrange energy delivery.
Performance Characteristics
From a performance standpoint, the 350 Legend presents a compelling blend of speed and manageability. It often achieves impressive muzzle velocities, approaching or exceeding 2200 feet per second (fps) depending on the bullet weight and powder used. These velocities translate to reasonable energy levels at short and medium ranges. Its trajectory is relatively flat out to a couple of hundred yards, making it a capable choice for hunting deer and other similarly sized game. The straight-walled design also results in mild recoil, which is a significant advantage for new shooters or those who prefer a more comfortable shooting experience. This feature contributes to faster follow-up shots and overall ease of use.
However, the 350 Legend isn’t without its limitations. While it excels at the ranges often found in states with straight-wall restrictions, its effectiveness can diminish at extended distances. Bullet selection is somewhat limited compared to some other calibers. The .357-inch bullet diameter, while adequate, doesn’t offer the same range of specialized bullets and ballistic coefficients that other calibers might.
Exploring the 300 HAM’R
History and Development
The 300 HAM’R, in contrast to the 350 Legend’s regulatory focus, originated from a different set of objectives. Developed by Wilson Combat, the goal was to create a .30 caliber cartridge specifically optimized for the AR-15 platform, offering improved performance and versatility compared to existing options. The intent was to maximize the capabilities of the platform while providing the shooter with a wider range of options.
Cartridge Specifications
The 300 HAM’R, like the 350 Legend, offers its own distinctive characteristics. It’s a necked-up cartridge, meaning it’s based on a different case design, necked up to accept a .308-inch bullet. This is a common bullet diameter, and it’s known for its versatility. The case design allows for a wide array of bullet weights and profiles, from lighter, faster bullets ideal for varmints to heavier, higher ballistic coefficient bullets suitable for extended ranges and larger game.
Performance Characteristics
In the realm of performance, the 300 HAM’R boasts considerable strengths. It typically achieves impressive velocities, approaching or surpassing 2400 fps depending on the chosen bullet weight and powder load. Its trajectory is flatter than that of the 350 Legend, allowing for more accurate shots at longer distances. It packs a powerful punch, delivering significant energy to the target at various ranges. The expanded range of bullet options gives shooters greater control over the cartridge’s performance in any given situation. These attributes make it a great option for a variety of game and target situations.
However, the 300 HAM’R has its own set of considerations. Due to its more specialized nature, ammunition availability might not be as widespread as some more common calibers. It might be more challenging to find 300 HAM’R ammunition at your local sporting goods store, especially compared to the ubiquitous 350 Legend. Another consideration is that 300 HAM’R barrels are very important and often require a specific barrel in order for it to work properly.
A Direct Comparative Analysis
Ballistics
To truly understand the strengths and weaknesses of each cartridge, a direct comparison is essential. This requires examining ballistics, terminal performance, and practical considerations.
When evaluating ballistics, one of the critical measurements is muzzle velocity. The 300 HAM’R typically starts with a slight advantage in muzzle velocity. But, at 200 yards and beyond, differences in ballistic coefficients become increasingly relevant. The 300 HAM’R, with its potential to use bullets with higher ballistic coefficients, often holds a significant edge in retained velocity and energy. The .308 bullets in the 300 HAM’R have much better bullet options to maintain velocity further down range. Ballistics charts and real-world testing consistently show the 300 HAM’R maintaining more energy at extended distances.
Terminal Performance
Analyzing terminal performance involves understanding how each cartridge interacts with the target. The 350 Legend, using a .357-inch bullet, delivers a substantial wound channel. The larger diameter typically causes significant tissue disruption. The 300 HAM’R, thanks to its ability to utilize a wide variety of bullets, provides a higher degree of precision. The .308 bullets used in the 300 HAM’R offer varied expansion profiles, optimized for various game sizes and hunting scenarios. Some hunters prefer the more dramatic wound channel that the 350 legend creates. Others value the potential for deeper penetration and less fragmentation.
Practical Considerations
Practical considerations play a crucial role in real-world decision-making. The 350 Legend offers the advantage of readily available ammunition. You can often find multiple brands, bullet weights, and bullet types at most firearms retailers. The 300 HAM’R, as previously noted, might require more effort to locate ammunition, although the situation is improving as it grows in popularity. The 350 Legend is also likely to be less expensive to reload as well, as components may be easier to find.
The cost of firearms and related equipment is also a factor. The 350 Legend is a common caliber, so rifles and components are often available at a lower price point. The 300 HAM’R might require a specialized barrel. The added cost may make it slightly more expensive to set up. Reloading can level the playing field, and both rounds are relatively straightforward to reload.
Ideal Uses of Each Cartridge
The 350 Legend
Knowing where each cartridge shines helps you make the right choice.
The 350 Legend excels in specific niches. It’s a perfect choice for hunting in states with straight-wall restrictions. Its energy delivery at moderate ranges, combined with its mild recoil, makes it ideal for deer, hogs, and other medium-sized game. The cartridge’s combination of performance and ease of use is a huge selling point for many shooters. However, it’s less suited for longer-range engagements or for ethically harvesting very large game.
The 300 HAM’R
The 300 HAM’R, on the other hand, provides greater flexibility. Its superior ballistics enable accurate shots at extended distances. This makes it an excellent option for hunting medium to large game such as deer, bear, and even elk (with appropriate bullet selection and shot placement). The 300 HAM’R also lends itself to general-purpose shooting and target practice. This cartridge’s potential for versatility provides more options.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the 350 Legend and the 300 HAM’R depends entirely on your specific requirements and shooting priorities.
If you prioritize ammunition availability, ease of use, and compliance with straight-wall restrictions, the 350 Legend is an excellent option. It’s a capable cartridge that excels in its designed role, delivering good performance in a manageable package. It is ideal for the shooter new to the AR platform, or those in areas that require a straight walled cartridge.
If you seek greater versatility, longer-range performance, and the potential for a wider range of hunting applications, the 300 HAM’R is the more compelling choice. The increased ballistic capabilities and expanded bullet selection give you more control over your shots and the performance of the cartridge. It comes with the slightly higher price of availability, but its benefits are worth the cost for those who need it.
Ultimately, the best cartridge is the one that best suits your individual needs and goals. Evaluate your typical shooting situations, the type of game you hunt (if any), and the available resources. Both are excellent AR-15 cartridge options, and this guide should give you a good basis for making your decision. Whether you choose the 350 Legend or the 300 HAM’R, proper training, responsible gun handling, and ethical hunting practices are paramount. This decision is a personal one, and it is important to research and understand the full advantages and disadvantages of each cartridge.
