The timeless debate rages on, a silent standoff played out in the realm of hunting and shooting: which cartridge reigns supreme? Today, we dissect two titans: the modern marvel known as the 350 Legend, and the venerable champion, the 45-70 Government. One born of contemporary engineering, the other steeped in history, they both offer a powerful punch, yet their applications and characteristics vary significantly. This head-to-head comparison aims to arm you with the knowledge necessary to choose the best fit for your personal shooting and hunting endeavors. Whether you’re aiming to bring down a whitetail, target shoot, or explore the annals of firearms history, the right cartridge can make all the difference.
A Tale of Two Cartridges: A Brief History
The 350 Legend arrived on the scene in the late 2010s, a product of modern ammunition design spearheaded by Winchester. It was engineered with specific legal requirements in mind, particularly in states that restrict rifle hunting to straight-walled cartridges. The 350 Legend was developed to offer impressive performance within these constraints, delivering a potent combination of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil. This innovation quickly gained traction, earning a strong reputation among hunters and target shooters seeking an efficient, modern cartridge.
Contrast this with the 45-70 Government, a cartridge with a pedigree that stretches back to the late 1800s. Developed by the United States Army, it quickly became a dominant force in the world of firearms. Born from a need for a powerful and reliable cartridge, the 45-70 saw service in various military rifles, including the iconic Springfield Model 1873. Its legacy extends beyond the battlefield, becoming a favorite among hunters, especially those pursuing larger game. The 45-70, with its rich history, remains a testament to enduring design and potent performance.
Cartridge Specifications and Their Impact
One of the fundamental differences lies in their physical dimensions and construction. The 350 Legend boasts a straight-walled design with a .357-inch bullet diameter. This is crucial for its widespread acceptance where regulations mandate straight-walled cartridges. Common bullet weights for the 350 Legend typically range from 145 to 180 grains, allowing for versatility in game selection and shooting preferences.
The 45-70, on the other hand, is a much larger cartridge. Its bullet diameter is a robust .458 inches, often associated with a significant increase in striking power. While the cartridge is also straight-walled, its overall size is considerably greater. Bullet weights in the 45-70 typically range from 300 to 500 grains and beyond, reflecting the cartridge’s ability to deliver heavy projectiles with substantial energy.
Ballistics and the Paths They Travel
The heart of any cartridge’s performance lies in its ballistics: the science of projectile motion. Understanding the numbers allows for informed decisions about range, trajectory, and overall effectiveness.
The 350 Legend, with its more modern design, offers a generally flatter trajectory than the 45-70. Muzzle velocities for the 350 Legend can easily exceed 2000 feet per second, depending on the bullet weight and load. Its trajectory is relatively flat at moderate ranges, making it easier to compensate for bullet drop, a vital aspect for accurate shooting at varying distances. Energy levels are also noteworthy, and while they might not match the 45-70’s raw power, the 350 Legend possesses a considerable amount of kinetic energy at the target.
The 45-70, with its heavier bullets, often experiences a steeper trajectory. Muzzle velocities tend to be lower, usually ranging between 1300 and 1800 feet per second. The heavier bullets, combined with a slower velocity, create a more pronounced arc in the bullet’s flight. This can require greater holdover adjustments at longer ranges. However, the advantage lies in the immense amount of energy the 45-70 delivers to the target, making it an effective choice for close-range encounters.
Consider a deer hunter aiming for a target 200 yards away. The 350 Legend, with its flatter trajectory, would require relatively minor adjustments to the scope. In contrast, the 45-70, given its trajectory, would necessitate a more calculated holdover to account for the bullet’s drop.
Performance in the Field: Hunting Applications
The intended use of these cartridges significantly impacts their perceived advantages.
The 350 Legend, due to its flatter trajectory and manageable recoil, finds favor in hunting environments where longer shots are common. Its effective range for ethical hunting on deer-sized game often extends to 250 yards or even further, depending on the shooter’s skill and the bullet’s performance. This is particularly valuable in open terrain or states where regulations mandate straight-walled cartridges. The 350 Legend has become a preferred choice for hunters in these regions.
The 45-70 Government, by contrast, shines as a short to medium-range powerhouse. While the cartridge can be used at longer ranges, its effective range typically sits between 100 and 200 yards. The 45-70 excels when hunting in thick cover, where shots are typically close and the emphasis shifts from speed and trajectory to raw striking force. This makes it an excellent choice for hunting bigger game such as black bear or even larger North American species, where its immense energy transfer can prove crucial.
Penetration and Stopping Force: The Question of Energy
Penetration, and, by extension, stopping power, is where the 45-70 demonstrates its raw superiority. The heavier bullets it fires, coupled with impressive frontal surface area, can produce devastating results upon impact. The 45-70 is celebrated for its ability to drive through dense brush or inflict significant damage at close ranges.
The 350 Legend, while potent, typically doesn’t match the 45-70 in this regard. Its bullet diameter is significantly smaller and its lower sectional density may result in less penetration through tough hide or heavy bone. However, the 350 Legend is not underpowered. Its velocity and energy delivery are fully capable of providing humane and ethical kills on deer-sized game.
Recoil and the Shooting Experience
The shooting experience is a crucial aspect, influencing shooter comfort and the ability to make accurate follow-up shots.
The 350 Legend is known for its relatively mild recoil. This makes it a pleasant cartridge to shoot, even for extended periods. The reduced recoil contributes to increased accuracy, allowing shooters to maintain better control and consistently place shots.
The 45-70, on the other hand, has a reputation for a more noticeable kick. The greater bullet weight and higher energy output contribute to the increased recoil. While manageable for seasoned shooters, the 45-70 can be fatiguing after prolonged shooting sessions. This is something to consider when evaluating your preferences and shooting style.
Platforms and the Availability of Ammunition
The selection of rifles and the availability of ammunition are critical factors in making a cartridge selection.
The 350 Legend enjoys availability in a growing array of rifle platforms. You can find it in modern bolt-action rifles, semi-automatic AR-15 style rifles, and even some lever-action models. This widespread availability is making the 350 Legend an increasingly appealing choice for hunters and shooters. Ammunition for the 350 Legend is widely available from various manufacturers, with options for different bullet weights and performance characteristics. The cost per round is often more affordable than the 45-70, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious shooters.
The 45-70 Government is most commonly chambered in lever-action rifles, particularly those from manufacturers like Marlin and Henry. While less common, it can also be found in single-shot rifles and some bolt-action platforms. The 45-70 enjoys a strong presence in the historical shooting community. Ammunition is also readily available, although potentially more expensive per round. A wide range of bullet weights and configurations is offered, including options for specialized hunting applications.
Examining the Advantages and Disadvantages
Now, let’s assess the pros and cons of each cartridge:
The 350 Legend has a few notable advantages. Its lower recoil and flatter trajectory make it a more comfortable and accurate shooting experience, especially at longer ranges. The availability and affordability of ammunition add to its appeal. Its straight-walled design complies with regulations in many states. However, it might be less effective for larger game animals, and the performance at extremely long ranges is limited due to lower energy retention.
The 45-70 boasts massive stopping power, an excellent choice for taking down large animals, and has a rich history with significant cultural value. However, the recoil can be significant, potentially impacting accuracy and leading to fatigue. The trajectory has a greater arc, requiring more careful holdover at distance, and the ammunition may be more expensive.
Which Cartridge Should You Choose?
The best choice hinges on the intended application and personal preferences. For those seeking a modern, versatile cartridge for deer hunting, especially where straight-walled cartridges are required, the 350 Legend is an excellent choice. Its manageable recoil, flat trajectory, and availability make it easy to shoot and a good option for hunters of different experience levels.
The 45-70 Government appeals to hunters who prioritize raw power and want a traditional cartridge with a historic connection. If you’re hunting larger game, primarily at close to moderate ranges, the 45-70 shines. Those drawn to the classic lever-action rifle or seeking a cartridge with significant stopping force will likely be satisfied by this venerable round.
In Conclusion
The 350 Legend and 45-70 Government each offer unique strengths. The 350 Legend provides a modern platform with a manageable recoil and flat trajectory, making it a great choice for modern hunters in states with straight-walled cartridge restrictions. The 45-70 remains a powerful and proven cartridge, a reliable choice for hunting larger game at closer ranges. When choosing between these two, consider your hunting environments, the game you’ll be pursuing, and personal preferences regarding recoil, range, and the overall shooting experience. Thoroughly research ammunition options and the available rifle platforms to find the perfect fit for your personal needs.
Final Thoughts:
The choice ultimately rests with you, the shooter. Do your research, and choose the cartridge that best aligns with your shooting style, intended game, and the regulations in your area. By carefully weighing the factors presented, you can confidently select the right cartridge to meet your shooting and hunting needs.
