What Does The 350 Legend Compare To? A Deep Dive

The 350 Legend, a straight-walled cartridge, is gaining popularity among hunters, but What Does The 350 Legend Compare To? This comprehensive comparison on COMPARE.EDU.VN will explore its performance against other popular cartridges, dissecting its strengths and weaknesses to aid in making an informed decision. Consider this your guide to ballistic performance and hunting suitability, because we understand the need for objective analysis; let’s explore ammunition options and cartridge comparisons.

1. Understanding the 350 Legend

The 350 Legend is a straight-walled hunting cartridge designed for use in states with restrictions on bottlenecked cartridges. It was engineered to provide a modern, accurate, and low-recoil option for deer hunting and other medium-sized game.

1.1. Key Features of the 350 Legend

Straight-Walled Cartridge: Complies with regulations in many Midwestern and Eastern states.
Low Recoil: Makes it suitable for youth, smaller-framed shooters, and anyone sensitive to recoil.
Effective Range: Optimized for hunting within 200 yards.
Bullet Diameter: .357 inch (9.07 mm).
Typical Bullet Weights: 150 to 180 grains.
Velocity: Generally between 2,100 and 2,300 fps.

1.2. Intended Use and Benefits

The 350 Legend is primarily intended for deer hunting in areas with specific cartridge restrictions. Its benefits include:

Compliance: Allows hunters to use rifles in previously shotgun-only or muzzleloader-only zones.
Accuracy: Offers better accuracy than shotguns with slugs or muzzleloaders.
Shootability: Low recoil makes it easier to handle and shoot accurately, especially for extended periods.
Affordability: Ammunition is relatively inexpensive compared to some other rifle cartridges.

2. The .450 Bushmaster: A Heavy Hitter

The .450 Bushmaster is another popular straight-walled cartridge known for its significant stopping power and larger bullet diameter. Understanding its attributes helps to contrast it against the .350 Legend.

2.1. Key Features of the .450 Bushmaster

Straight-Walled Cartridge: Complies with straight-wall regulations.
High Energy: Delivers significant energy on target.
Bullet Diameter: .452 inch (11.5 mm).
Typical Bullet Weights: 250 to 300 grains.
Velocity: Generally between 2,200 and 2,300 fps.
Effective Range: Suitable for hunting within 250 yards.

2.2. Intended Use and Benefits

The .450 Bushmaster is designed for hunters who need maximum stopping power for larger game or hunting in dense cover. Its benefits include:

Stopping Power: Capable of quickly and ethically taking down deer, hogs, and even larger game.
Short-Range Performance: Excels in thick woods where shots are typically close-range.
Versatility: Can be used in AR-15 platform rifles with appropriate modifications.

3. 350 Legend vs. .450 Bushmaster: A Detailed Comparison

When comparing the 350 Legend and the .450 Bushmaster, several factors come into play, including recoil, effective range, bullet drop, and overall hunting suitability.

3.1. Recoil Comparison

.350 Legend: Significantly lower recoil. Ideal for recoil-sensitive shooters, youth hunters, and those who want to maintain accuracy during rapid follow-up shots.
.450 Bushmaster: Substantially more recoil. Can be challenging for some shooters, especially those not accustomed to larger calibers.

3.2. Effective Range and Trajectory

.350 Legend: Effective to around 200 yards, with a more pronounced bullet drop at longer distances. Requires careful range estimation for shots beyond 150 yards.
.450 Bushmaster: Effective to around 250 yards, with a flatter trajectory compared to the .350 Legend. Offers more flexibility in open areas where longer shots are possible.

3.3. Energy and Stopping Power

.350 Legend: Delivers adequate energy for deer-sized game within its effective range. Best suited for broadside shots to ensure ethical kills.
.450 Bushmaster: Provides significantly more energy and stopping power. Offers more forgiveness on less-than-perfect shot angles and is effective on larger or tougher game.

3.4. Ammunition Availability and Cost

.350 Legend: Ammunition is generally more affordable and widely available due to its popularity and the number of manufacturers producing it.
.450 Bushmaster: Ammunition can be more expensive and sometimes less readily available, though it is becoming more common.

3.5. Rifle Platform and Customization

.350 Legend: Compatible with AR-15 platforms with minimal modifications. Also available in a variety of bolt-action rifles.
.450 Bushmaster: Requires specific AR-15 components, such as a larger bolt face and magazine. Also available in bolt-action rifles, but with fewer options compared to the .350 Legend.

3.6. Table Summary: .350 Legend vs .450 Bushmaster

Feature	.350 Legend	.450 Bushmaster
Recoil	Low	High
Effective Range	200 yards	250 yards
Energy	Adequate for deer	High, suitable for larger game
Ammunition Cost	More affordable	More expensive
Rifle Platform	AR-15, bolt-action	AR-15 (modified), bolt-action
Bullet Diameter	.357 inch	.452 inch
Typical Bullet Wt.	150-180 grains	250-300 grains
Velocity	2,100-2,300 fps	2,200-2,300 fps
Best Use	Deer hunting, recoil-sensitive	Larger game, dense cover

4. Comparing the 350 Legend to Other Cartridges

Beyond the .450 Bushmaster, it’s useful to compare the 350 Legend to other popular cartridges to further understand its niche and performance characteristics.

4.1. 350 Legend vs. .30-30 Winchester

.30-30 Winchester: A classic deer hunting cartridge with a long history. It typically shoots 150 to 170-grain bullets at around 2,400 fps.
Recoil: The .30-30 has slightly more recoil than the 350 Legend.
Trajectory: The .30-30 generally has a flatter trajectory and a slightly longer effective range.
Energy: Both cartridges deliver similar energy levels at typical hunting ranges.
Legality: The 350 Legend complies with straight-wall cartridge restrictions, while the .30-30 may not in some areas.

4.2. 350 Legend vs. 7.62x39mm

7.62x39mm: Commonly used in AK-47 and SKS rifles. Shoots 123 to 154-grain bullets at around 2,350 fps.
Recoil: The 7.62x39mm has slightly more recoil than the 350 Legend.
Trajectory: Similar trajectory to the 350 Legend, with comparable bullet drop at longer ranges.
Energy: The 7.62x39mm delivers slightly more energy than the 350 Legend.
Legality: The 7.62x39mm is not a straight-walled cartridge and therefore not legal in straight-wall-only hunting zones.

4.3. 350 Legend vs. 12 Gauge Slug

12 Gauge Slug: A common shotgun option in areas with rifle restrictions. Shoots heavy slugs ranging from 1 ounce (437.5 grains) to 1 1/8 ounce (492 grains).
Recoil: 12 gauge slugs have significantly more recoil than the 350 Legend.
Trajectory: 12 gauge slugs have a very curved trajectory, making accurate shots beyond 100 yards challenging.
Energy: Slugs deliver enormous energy at close range, but energy drops off quickly with distance.
Accuracy: Rifled barrels and sabot slugs can improve accuracy, but still not on par with a dedicated rifle cartridge like the 350 Legend.

4.4. Table Summary: 350 Legend vs. Other Cartridges

Feature	.350 Legend	.30-30 Winchester	7.62x39mm	12 Gauge Slug
Recoil	Low	Moderate	Moderate	High
Effective Range	200 yards	250 yards	200 yards	100 yards
Energy	Adequate for deer	Adequate for deer	More energy	Very High (close)
Legality (Straight Wall)	Yes	No (in some areas)	No	N/A
Typical Bullet Wt.	150-180 grains	150-170 grains	123-154 grains	437.5-492 grains
Velocity	2,100-2,300 fps	2,400 fps	2,350 fps	Varies
Best Use	Deer, low recoil	Deer, longer range	General purpose	Close-range, large game

5. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cartridge

Choosing the right cartridge involves several considerations tailored to your specific hunting needs and preferences.

5.1. Hunting Regulations

Straight-Wall Requirements: Ensure the cartridge complies with the specific regulations of the hunting area. The 350 Legend and .450 Bushmaster are designed for these zones.
Minimum Caliber Restrictions: Some areas may have minimum caliber requirements. Check these regulations to ensure compliance.

5.2. Game Type

Deer Hunting: The 350 Legend is well-suited for deer-sized game within 200 yards.
Larger Game: The .450 Bushmaster is a better choice for larger game like hogs or black bear, where greater stopping power is needed.

5.3. Hunting Environment

Dense Woods: The .450 Bushmaster’s stopping power is advantageous in thick cover where shots are typically close-range.
Open Fields: The 350 Legend can be effective, but consider the .450 Bushmaster if longer shots are anticipated.

5.4. Shooter Preference and Physical Condition

Recoil Sensitivity: The 350 Legend is an excellent choice for recoil-sensitive shooters or youth hunters.
Physical Strength: The .450 Bushmaster requires more physical strength to handle due to its heavier recoil and potentially heavier rifles.

5.5. Budget

Ammunition Cost: The 350 Legend generally has lower ammunition costs, making it more economical for frequent practice and hunting.
Rifle Cost: Both cartridges are available in various rifle platforms, with prices depending on the make and model.

6. Ballistic Performance: A Deeper Look

Understanding the ballistic performance of each cartridge helps to refine your choice based on specific hunting conditions.

6.1. Velocity and Energy Retention

.350 Legend: Velocity drops more rapidly compared to the .450 Bushmaster, resulting in less energy at longer ranges.
.450 Bushmaster: Maintains velocity and energy better, providing more reliable performance at extended distances.

6.2. Bullet Drop

.350 Legend: Has a more pronounced bullet drop, requiring precise range estimation and holdover adjustments.
.450 Bushmaster: Offers a flatter trajectory, making it more forgiving for shots at varying distances.

6.3. Wind Drift

Both Cartridges: Both are affected by wind due to their larger bullet diameters and lower ballistic coefficients compared to high-velocity, smaller-caliber cartridges. Hunters should be aware of wind conditions, especially at longer ranges.

6.4. Ballistic Coefficient (BC)

Understanding BC: The ballistic coefficient measures how well a bullet resists air drag. Higher BC values indicate better aerodynamic efficiency and less velocity loss over distance.
350 Legend vs. 450 Bushmaster: Both cartridges have relatively low BC values compared to bottlenecked cartridges designed for long-range shooting. This is due to their large bullet diameters and blunt shapes, which are optimized for short-range energy transfer rather than long-range flight.

6.5. Trajectory Charts

Importance of Trajectory Charts: Trajectory charts provide detailed data on bullet drop at various distances, allowing hunters to make informed decisions about aiming points.
Consulting Ballistic Data: Always consult ballistic charts specific to the ammunition being used, as different loads can have varying trajectories. Online ballistic calculators can also be helpful for generating custom trajectory charts based on specific conditions.

7. Real-World Hunting Scenarios

Considering real-world hunting scenarios helps to illustrate the practical differences between the 350 Legend and the .450 Bushmaster.

7.1. Deer Hunting in the Midwest

Scenario: Hunting whitetail deer in the Midwestern states with straight-wall cartridge restrictions. Shots are typically within 150 yards in wooded areas.
Recommendation: The 350 Legend is an excellent choice due to its low recoil, adequate energy for deer, and compliance with regulations.

7.2. Hog Hunting in Texas

Scenario: Hunting feral hogs in Texas, where shots can range from close-quarters in thick brush to longer distances across open fields.
Recommendation: The .450 Bushmaster is a better option due to its greater stopping power and ability to handle larger, tougher game.

7.3. Black Bear Hunting in the Eastern US

Scenario: Hunting black bear in the Eastern United States, where shots are often at close range in dense forests.
Recommendation: The .450 Bushmaster is highly recommended due to its superior energy and ability to quickly dispatch a large, potentially dangerous animal.

7.4. Youth Hunting

Scenario: Introducing a young or recoil-sensitive hunter to deer hunting.
Recommendation: The 350 Legend is ideal due to its very low recoil, which helps build confidence and accuracy without causing discomfort.

8. Firearm Options and Accessories

Both the 350 Legend and .450 Bushmaster are available in various firearms, each with its own set of features and benefits.

8.1. AR-15 Platform

350 Legend: Easily adaptable to the AR-15 platform with a simple barrel swap and magazine change.
.450 Bushmaster: Requires a more extensive conversion, including a larger bolt face, modified magazines, and potentially a heavier buffer.

8.2. Bolt-Action Rifles

Both Cartridges: Available in a wide range of bolt-action rifles from various manufacturers, offering excellent accuracy and reliability.

8.3. Single-Shot Rifles

Both Cartridges: Single-shot rifles provide a simple, lightweight option, often at a lower cost.

8.4. Accessories

Scopes: Choose a scope with appropriate magnification for the expected shooting distances. Variable power scopes are versatile for different hunting environments.
Red Dot Sights: Red dot sights are excellent for close-range hunting in dense cover, providing quick target acquisition.
Suppressors: Suppressors can reduce recoil and muzzle blast, making shooting more comfortable and reducing disturbance to wildlife.
Slings: A good sling is essential for carrying the rifle comfortably in the field.
Ammunition Carriers: Keep extra ammunition readily accessible with a quality ammunition carrier.

9. Maintenance and Upkeep

Proper maintenance and upkeep are crucial for ensuring the reliability and longevity of any firearm.

9.1. Cleaning

Regular Cleaning: Clean the rifle after each hunting trip or range session to remove fouling and prevent corrosion.
Bore Cleaning: Use a bore brush and solvent to thoroughly clean the barrel.
Action Cleaning: Clean the action and bolt to ensure smooth operation.

9.2. Lubrication

Proper Lubrication: Apply a light coat of oil to all moving parts to prevent wear and ensure smooth function.
Avoid Over-Lubrication: Over-lubrication can attract dirt and debris, leading to malfunctions.

9.3. Storage

Safe Storage: Store the rifle in a secure location, away from children and unauthorized users.
Climate Control: Store the rifle in a dry, climate-controlled environment to prevent rust and corrosion.

9.4. Professional Servicing

Regular Check-ups: Have the rifle professionally serviced by a qualified gunsmith on a regular basis to ensure it is in safe working condition.
Component Inspection: Inspect the components regularly for wear and tear, and replace any worn or damaged parts promptly.

10. User Experiences and Reviews

Gathering information from user experiences and reviews provides valuable insights into the real-world performance of each cartridge.

10.1. Online Forums

Engage in Discussions: Participate in online forums and discussions to learn from other hunters’ experiences with the 350 Legend and .450 Bushmaster.
Seek Recommendations: Ask for recommendations and advice from experienced users.

10.2. Professional Reviews

Read Reviews: Read professional reviews from reputable sources to gain objective insights into the performance and features of each cartridge and associated firearms.
Consider Multiple Sources: Consider multiple sources to get a well-rounded perspective.

10.3. Personal Testimonials

Gather Testimonials: Gather personal testimonials from hunters who have used the cartridges in the field.
Evaluate Credibility: Evaluate the credibility of the testimonials by considering the hunter’s experience and the conditions under which the cartridges were used.

11. The Future of Straight-Walled Cartridges

Straight-walled cartridges are becoming increasingly popular as more states update their hunting regulations to allow their use.

11.1. Trends in Hunting Regulations

Increasing Acceptance: More states are recognizing the benefits of straight-walled cartridges and updating their regulations accordingly.
Modernization of Hunting Laws: The shift towards straight-walled cartridges reflects a broader trend towards modernizing hunting laws and providing hunters with more options.

11.2. Technological Advancements

Improved Ammunition: Manufacturers are continuously developing new and improved ammunition for straight-walled cartridges, enhancing their performance and versatility.
Enhanced Rifle Designs: Rifle manufacturers are designing innovative firearms specifically for straight-walled cartridges, offering better accuracy, reliability, and ergonomics.

11.3. Growing Popularity

Increased Demand: The growing popularity of straight-walled cartridges is driving increased demand for firearms and ammunition, leading to greater availability and affordability.
Expanding Market: The expanding market is attracting new manufacturers and driving further innovation.

12. Legal and Ethical Considerations

Hunters must always adhere to legal and ethical guidelines to ensure responsible and sustainable hunting practices.

12.1. Compliance with Hunting Laws

Know the Regulations: Familiarize yourself with all applicable hunting laws and regulations in the areas where you will be hunting.
Obtain Proper Licenses: Obtain all necessary licenses and permits before hunting.

12.2. Ethical Hunting Practices

Fair Chase: Adhere to fair chase principles, giving the animal a reasonable chance to escape.
Shot Placement: Practice proper shot placement to ensure a quick and ethical kill.
Respect for Wildlife: Respect wildlife and their habitats.
Landowner Permission: Obtain permission from landowners before hunting on private property.

12.3. Safety Precautions

Firearm Safety: Always follow basic firearm safety rules, including treating every firearm as if it is loaded, keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, and being certain of your target and what is beyond.
Hunter Education: Participate in hunter education courses to learn about safe hunting practices, wildlife conservation, and ethical hunting principles.

13. Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

Choosing between the 350 Legend and the .450 Bushmaster depends on individual hunting needs, preferences, and the specific conditions of the hunt. The 350 Legend offers low recoil and adequate energy for deer hunting, while the .450 Bushmaster provides greater stopping power for larger game and longer ranges.

13.1. Summary of Key Differences

Recoil: The 350 Legend has significantly lower recoil.
Effective Range: The .450 Bushmaster has a slightly longer effective range.
Energy: The .450 Bushmaster delivers more energy on target.
Ammunition Cost: The 350 Legend is generally more affordable.
Game Type: The 350 Legend is ideal for deer, while the .450 Bushmaster is better suited for larger game.

13.2. Final Recommendations

Choose the .350 Legend if: You are recoil-sensitive, hunt primarily deer, and typically take shots within 200 yards.
Choose the .450 Bushmaster if: You need maximum stopping power, hunt larger game, and may encounter longer shots.

13.3. Further Research

Consult Experts: Seek advice from experienced hunters and firearms professionals.
Visit Shooting Ranges: Test fire both cartridges at a shooting range to get a feel for their recoil and accuracy.
Stay Informed: Stay informed about the latest developments in ammunition and firearms technology.

14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

14.1. Is the 350 Legend powerful enough for deer hunting?

Yes, the 350 Legend is powerful enough for deer hunting within its effective range of 200 yards. Proper shot placement is essential for ethical kills.

14.2. What is the effective range of the .450 Bushmaster?

The .450 Bushmaster is effective out to approximately 250 yards, offering a flatter trajectory and more energy at longer distances compared to the 350 Legend.

14.3. Which cartridge has less recoil?

The 350 Legend has significantly less recoil than the .450 Bushmaster, making it a better choice for recoil-sensitive shooters.

14.4. Can I use the 350 Legend in an AR-15?

Yes, the 350 Legend is easily adaptable to the AR-15 platform with a simple barrel swap and magazine change.

14.5. What modifications are needed to use the .450 Bushmaster in an AR-15?

The .450 Bushmaster requires more extensive modifications, including a larger bolt face, modified magazines, and potentially a heavier buffer.

14.6. Which cartridge is more affordable to shoot?

The 350 Legend is generally more affordable to shoot due to lower ammunition costs.

14.7. Is the .450 Bushmaster suitable for black bear hunting?

Yes, the .450 Bushmaster is well-suited for black bear hunting due to its greater stopping power and ability to quickly dispatch a large animal.

14.8. What is a straight-walled cartridge?

A straight-walled cartridge is a type of ammunition that has a case with straight sides, as opposed to bottlenecked cartridges, which have a narrower neck. Many states with hunting restrictions require the use of straight-walled cartridges.

14.9. How do I choose the right scope for my rifle?

Choose a scope with appropriate magnification for the expected shooting distances. Variable power scopes are versatile for different hunting environments. Consider factors such as eye relief, field of view, and lens quality.

14.10. What safety precautions should I take when hunting with a rifle?

Always follow basic firearm safety rules, including treating every firearm as if it is loaded, keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, and being certain of your target and what is beyond. Participate in hunter education courses to learn about safe hunting practices and ethical hunting principles.

Still undecided? Head over to COMPARE.EDU.VN for even more detailed comparisons and reviews to ensure you make the best choice for your specific hunting needs. Make an informed decision today. Our resources are designed to simplify complex comparisons, providing you with clear, objective data to guide your selection process.

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