A Tale of Two Cartridges: Introduction
The straight-walled cartridge revolution has undeniably reshaped the hunting landscape. Driven by evolving regulations and a desire for effective performance in specific areas, these cartridges offer a compelling blend of power and precision, especially for hunters operating under restrictions. Two cartridges have emerged as frontrunners in this arena: the venerable 450 Bushmaster and the newer 400 Legend. But which of these contenders truly reigns supreme? This article delves into a comprehensive comparison, examining their specifications, ballistic performance, hunting applications, and overall strengths and weaknesses, ultimately aiming to help you make an informed decision about which one best fits your hunting needs.
The Foundations: Cartridge Specifications and History
To fully understand these two cartridges, it’s critical to begin with their foundations, the core specifications and the history behind their creation.
The 450 Bushmaster: The Pioneer
The 450 Bushmaster’s story began with a specific mission: to provide a powerful, straight-walled cartridge for the AR-15 platform. Hornady, in partnership with firearms enthusiast and writer, Jeff Cooper, developed the 450 Bushmaster in response to states that regulated or restricted rifle cartridges to straight-walled cases. Their goal was to create a cartridge that would offer significant power for hunting large game at relatively short ranges. The 450 Bushmaster debuted in the early 2000s, quickly gaining a following among hunters in restricted zones. This cartridge offered a significant step up in power compared to the .223 Remington commonly found in the AR-15, offering a viable option for deer, hogs, and similar-sized animals.
When looking at its specifications, the 450 Bushmaster utilizes a bullet with a diameter of .452 inches. Bullet weights commonly range from 250 to 300 grains. The cartridge case length is 1.700 inches, and the overall cartridge length (OAL) is often around 2.260 inches.
The ballistic performance of the 450 Bushmaster is characterized by its impressive energy at close range. Muzzle velocities vary depending on the bullet weight and load, typically falling in the range of 2,000 to 2,400 feet per second (fps). This translates to substantial energy on target. The design prioritizes impact and stopping power at relatively short distances.
The 400 Legend: The Modern Challenger
The 400 Legend is a relative newcomer to the straight-walled cartridge scene. Created by Winchester, the 400 Legend was developed with the intention of optimizing performance in the AR-15 platform while also aiming for a flatter trajectory and less recoil compared to the 450 Bushmaster. The emphasis was on achieving enhanced ballistic performance and a more comfortable shooting experience. The 400 Legend’s development reflects a trend toward creating cartridges that deliver outstanding efficiency while remaining compliant with straight-walled cartridge regulations.
Regarding its specifications, the 400 Legend fires a bullet that is .400 inches in diameter. Common bullet weights span a similar range to the 450 Bushmaster. The case length is 1.710 inches, and the overall cartridge length is approximately 2.260 inches.
The 400 Legend aims for a flatter trajectory and a higher velocity. Expect muzzle velocities to be in the 2,200 to 2,600 fps range, depending on the bullet weight and load. This translates to a flatter trajectory and a potentially greater effective range compared to the 450 Bushmaster.
Ballistic Showdown: Head-to-Head Ballistic Performance
The true test of any cartridge lies in its ballistic performance. This comparison focuses on trajectory, effective range, energy at impact, recoil, and wind drift, crucial considerations for hunters.
Trajectory: The Path of the Bullet
One of the most significant differences between the 450 Bushmaster and the 400 Legend is their trajectory. The 450 Bushmaster, due to its larger bullet diameter and lower velocity, exhibits a steeper trajectory. This means that the bullet drops more dramatically over distance. This requires more precise range estimation and careful aiming. The 400 Legend, with its higher velocity and a slightly smaller bullet, tends to have a flatter trajectory. This can translate to easier aiming at longer distances, allowing for greater flexibility in the field.
Effective Range: Where Each Cartridge Shines
Effective range refers to the maximum distance at which a shooter can consistently and ethically take game. The 450 Bushmaster’s effective range is generally considered to be approximately two hundred yards, though some experienced shooters may extend this slightly. The drop of the bullet and the loss of energy beyond this range make it less ideal for shots at longer distances. The 400 Legend, with its flatter trajectory, often extends its effective range to about two hundred fifty yards, or slightly more depending on the shooter’s skill and the specific load.
Energy on Impact: Kinetic Power
Energy on impact is critical to a clean and ethical kill. While the 450 Bushmaster starts with more muzzle energy, its energy drops more rapidly due to bullet weight and slower velocity. The 400 Legend, although it starts with less muzzle energy, retains more energy at longer ranges, making it a good choice for longer distances. The choice between the two will depend upon the type of game and hunting environment.
Recoil: The Shooting Experience
Recoil can have a significant impact on a shooter’s ability to make accurate follow-up shots. The 450 Bushmaster, with its larger bullet and higher energy, tends to generate more recoil than the 400 Legend. This is something a shooter will have to consider, particularly with regard to shot placement. The 400 Legend, with its flatter trajectory and lower recoil, offers a more pleasant shooting experience, which can be advantageous in the field.
Wind Drift: The Impact of the Elements
Wind drift is the horizontal displacement of the bullet caused by the wind. Heavier, slower bullets like those from the 450 Bushmaster are generally more susceptible to wind drift. The 400 Legend, with its faster and lighter bullets, are less affected by wind, thus improving the chance of an accurate shot.
Hunting Applications: The Best Targets for Each Cartridge
The choice between the 450 Bushmaster and the 400 Legend must consider which game animals the cartridge is most suitable for, as well as the typical hunting conditions.
Target Game: Matching Cartridges to Prey
The 450 Bushmaster, with its powerful impact, is ideally suited for larger game animals at close range. It excels in taking down deer, black bear, and hogs. The 400 Legend, while also capable of taking down these animals, extends its range and versatility. It can be used to take deer, hogs, and similar-sized game with greater confidence at slightly longer distances.
Hunting Regulations: Navigating the Rules
One of the most critical considerations is hunting regulations. Hunters must always abide by the laws of their state or region. Specific regulations may sometimes favor one cartridge over the other. The 450 Bushmaster has a longer track record and is compliant with straight-walled requirements in many zones. The 400 Legend is new, but gaining acceptance rapidly. It is vital to ensure that the chosen cartridge adheres to local rules.
Best Use Cases: Tailoring to the Hunt
The 450 Bushmaster is at its best in close-range hunting scenarios, such as hunting in thick cover or at ranges of one hundred yards or less. The 400 Legend is a better option in hunting environments that offer longer shot opportunities, such as open fields or clearcuts. The choice depends on the type of game and the terrain.
Rifle and Ammunition Availability: Keeping it Simple
It’s also essential to evaluate the availability of rifles, ammunition, and reloading components. This ensures that one will find the cartridge for their specific needs.
Rifle Platforms: Choices for Your Cartridge
Both the 450 Bushmaster and 400 Legend are commonly available in AR-15 platform rifles, making them compatible with a popular and versatile design. The 450 Bushmaster has also been chambered in bolt-action rifles. The 400 Legend has a rapidly expanding range of available bolt-action rifles. The availability of different platforms gives hunters and shooters choices in terms of features, aesthetics, and customization.
Ammunition Selection: Finding the Right Load
The 450 Bushmaster has been around longer than the 400 Legend, so it has a slightly broader range of ammunition options. However, the 400 Legend has expanded its selections and is now available with a variety of bullet types and weights. The price of ammunition for both cartridges is comparable. One will also want to find bullets suited for the type of game to be hunted.
Reloading Components: Customizing Your Load
For handloaders, the availability of reloading components is a significant factor. Both cartridges have a readily available supply of brass, bullets, and dies. The ability to reload allows for a customized load tailored to specific hunting requirements, which can optimize performance and reduce the cost of ammunition.
Pros and Cons: A Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses
To summarize the critical information, it’s essential to list out the positives and the negatives of each cartridge.
The 450 Bushmaster: Power and Tradition
*Pros*
High energy at close range, providing significant stopping power.
Well-established cartridge with a long track record.
Good choice for larger game at close ranges.
*Cons*
Steeper trajectory, requiring more careful aiming at longer ranges.
More recoil compared to the 400 Legend.
Greater wind drift sensitivity.
The 400 Legend: Modern Performance
*Pros*
Flatter trajectory, making it easier to aim at longer ranges.
Less recoil than the 450 Bushmaster.
Greater effective range.
*Cons*
Potentially less energy on impact at closer ranges.
A newer cartridge, potentially with fewer options.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
The decision of whether to choose the 450 Bushmaster or the 400 Legend will depend on individual hunting needs. The 450 Bushmaster is a formidable choice for hunters primarily targeting large game at relatively short ranges. Its substantial energy delivery and established track record make it a trusted option. The 400 Legend, with its flatter trajectory and reduced recoil, shines for hunters seeking increased effective range and a more comfortable shooting experience. It’s ideal for those who anticipate longer shots or value ease of use.
Ultimately, the optimal choice hinges on several factors. The type of game pursued, typical shooting distances, shooting comfort preferences, and the hunting environment all should be considered. Assess your needs and then choose the cartridge that most aligns with them. Whether it is the proven performance of the 450 Bushmaster or the modern efficiency of the 400 Legend, both cartridges represent powerful and effective choices for hunting in areas that require straight-walled cartridges.
If possible, the most effective approach is to try both cartridges if you are able. This will help you assess how they feel to shoot and to learn how each performs at the ranges you intend to hunt. Then make the best choice for your specific needs. Consider a cartridge that suits your needs and preferences. Choosing the right straight-walled cartridge ensures a successful and ethical hunt.
