A Blast from the Past and a Glimpse into the Future: A Cartridge Tapestry
A Legacy of Power: .35 Remington
The 35 Remington has a rich history, steeped in the traditions of American hunting. Born in the early part of the twentieth century, this cartridge emerged as a response to the need for a powerful and effective round, particularly in lever-action rifles. Its design was intended to fill the gap between smaller calibers and the larger rounds used at the time. For generations, the 35 Remington found favor with hunters across the United States, especially in areas where dense forests and shorter shooting distances were the norm. Rifles like the legendary Marlin 336, a mainstay in hunting circles for decades, helped popularize this round. The cartridge offered a balance of power and manageable recoil, making it a favorite among hunters of all experience levels. The 35 Remington’s legacy is one of reliability, dependability, and an unwavering ability to put game down quickly.
The Modern Contender: 350 Legend
On the other hand, the 350 Legend represents a more recent evolution. Developed with modern needs in mind, this cartridge arose from evolving state regulations that, in some areas, limit the types of cartridges legal for hunting. These regulations often restrict the use of bottle-necked cartridges in certain zones, seeking to improve hunting safety and reduce the range of the bullet. The 350 Legend was engineered to deliver exceptional performance in straight-walled cartridges, offering a combination of power, accuracy, and versatility. Its design leverages modern manufacturing techniques and materials to offer improved ballistics and performance compared to earlier straight-walled offerings. The 350 Legend has quickly gained traction, particularly in regions where these straight-walled cartridge regulations have taken hold. This cartridge offers hunters a modern option that is both effective and compliant with specific regulations.
Ballistics: A Dance of Energy and Trajectory
Bullet Specifications
Comparing the ballistics of these two cartridges is essential for understanding their strengths and limitations. This examination involves looking at key factors such as bullet weight, muzzle velocity, trajectory, and energy transfer.
The 35 Remington is typically associated with bullets ranging in weight, providing a range of options for different hunting scenarios. Some popular weights include grains. These heavier bullets, in general, contribute to a high sectional density, enabling deeper penetration.
The 350 Legend is often loaded with bullets that provide a balance between speed and weight. Typical grain weights are 145-180 grain. The bullets are designed to provide rapid expansion.
Velocity and Trajectory
When we consider velocity, the 350 Legend typically exhibits a faster muzzle velocity compared to the 35 Remington. This higher speed translates into a flatter trajectory, meaning that the bullet drops less over a given distance. For hunters, a flatter trajectory can make it easier to estimate range and place accurate shots, especially at longer distances.
The 35 Remington, with its inherently slower velocity, will have a slightly more pronounced bullet drop at longer ranges. Experienced hunters can compensate for this drop by adjusting their aiming point. The bullet’s trajectory must be accounted for when taking long-range shots.
Energy and Terminal Performance
The energy delivered by each cartridge is also a crucial factor. The 350 Legend, with its higher velocity, often demonstrates a higher energy value at the muzzle. However, as the bullets travel downrange, both cartridges lose energy due to air resistance.
Terminal performance is a complex interaction between bullet design, velocity, and impact. The choice of bullet for each cartridge is critical. The 35 Remington, for example, may utilize bullets optimized for expansion at its velocity range, delivering substantial energy transfer to the target. The 350 Legend will achieve a similar effect with an appropriate bullet choice.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors, such as wind, also play a significant role in ballistics. Wind can significantly impact the trajectory of a bullet, especially at longer ranges. Hunters must consider wind conditions and make necessary adjustments to their aim.
Performance in the Field (Hunting Applications)
Hunting Applications
The ultimate test of any cartridge is its performance in the field. When evaluating hunting applications, several factors are considered, including the game being hunted, the effective range, and the cartridge’s ability to deliver a clean and ethical kill.
The 35 Remington has built a solid reputation as a cartridge for hunting medium-sized game such as deer, black bear, and feral hogs. Its effectiveness is enhanced by a proper bullet selection for the particular game and hunting conditions.
The 350 Legend, with its modern design and ballistics, provides a very useful option for hunting deer, hogs, and other similar game. It’s particularly well-suited for use in states or regions with straight-walled cartridge regulations. Its flatter trajectory and greater speed can also make it effective for longer ranges, provided that the bullet’s design is suited for the task.
Effective Range
Effective range is a critical consideration. The 35 Remington will likely have a shorter effective range than the 350 Legend. The bullet drop and energy retention are critical. Hunters using the 35 Remington must understand these characteristics to make accurate shots.
The 350 Legend offers a slightly longer effective range, owing to its flatter trajectory and higher velocity.
Recoil
Recoil is an important factor, especially for those who are new to shooting or who prefer lighter rifles. The 350 Legend often produces a more manageable recoil. The 35 Remington can provide a moderate recoil as well. Both are suitable for a wide range of shooters.
Rifle Availability and Cost
Rifle Availability
The availability of rifles, the cost of ammunition, and the option to reload are all practical considerations that affect a cartridge’s overall appeal.
The 35 Remington is typically found in a limited number of rifles. The classic Marlin 336, a lever-action icon, is perhaps the most common. The Remington Model 14 and 141 pump-action rifles are other available options.
The 350 Legend enjoys a wider range of rifle options. It has proven exceptionally adaptable, offered in AR-15 platforms, bolt-action rifles, and lever-action designs. This versatility makes it easier for shooters to find a rifle that meets their needs.
Ammunition Availability and Cost
The availability and cost of ammunition are always a consideration. The 35 Remington is commonly available at various gun stores and online retailers. The cost of ammunition is usually moderate.
The 350 Legend’s popularity has driven up ammunition availability. While you are likely to find more ammunition available for the 350 Legend, the prices between the cartridges are roughly comparable.
Reloading
Reloading is a factor that can significantly reduce shooting costs. The 35 Remington has been a popular reloading cartridge for decades. Reloading allows shooters to customize their loads for their specific rifles. The 350 Legend is also well-suited for reloading. Reloading allows users to optimize their ammunition for specific game or shooting purposes.
Advantages and Disadvantages
350 Legend
The 350 Legend offers a flatter trajectory, which can be an advantage for hunters, particularly at extended ranges. It also tends to offer more available rifle options, including modern designs and platforms. The higher velocity can be advantageous, enhancing the bullet’s energy delivery. However, its range is limited by design.
.35 Remington
The 35 Remington has established itself as a hunting favorite for many generations. It is known for its reliable performance. The 35 Remington has a wider selection of bullet weights, allowing shooters to tailor their loads to specific hunting situations. The cartridge is effective on medium-sized game. However, it tends to have greater bullet drop than the 350 Legend, potentially affecting its long-range accuracy.
Choosing the Right Cartridge
Factors to Consider
The ultimate decision of which cartridge is best depends on a number of factors, including the type of game being hunted, the hunting environment, and personal shooting preferences.
If you primarily hunt deer, bear, or similar-sized game, and if the hunting environment is conducive to shots at moderate ranges, both cartridges can be excellent choices. If you are looking for a longer effective range, the 350 Legend might provide some advantages.
If you prefer a rifle chambered in the 35 Remington and enjoy the classic feel of lever-action rifles, it can still be an excellent choice. The rifle offers more than adequate performance at reasonable hunting distances.
If you are hunting in a state or area with restrictions on bottle-necked cartridges, the 350 Legend is an easy choice, fulfilling the requirement with plenty of power and accuracy.
Careful consideration of these factors will ensure that you make the right choice.
Conclusion
Both the 350 Legend and the 35 Remington are capable hunting cartridges. The 35 Remington offers a proven track record. The 350 Legend presents a modern and powerful straight-walled alternative. The “best” choice depends on the specific requirements of the hunt.
Before making a purchase, research both cartridges thoroughly. Consider your individual hunting needs.
Resources
- Visit the manufacturers websites for the specific rifles.
- Consult with experienced hunters or gunsmiths.
- Utilize ballistics calculators to compare trajectories and energy levels.
By evaluating these factors, you’ll be equipped to make the most informed decision, and find the cartridge that will provide you with years of successful shooting.
