.450 Bushmaster vs .350 Legend: Which Cartridge Reigns Supreme?
Choosing the right cartridge for your hunting rifle or AR-platform build can be a daunting task. Two contenders often top the list for deer hunting and hog control within their respective ranges: the .450 Bushmaster and the .350 Legend. Both offer impressive stopping power, but their strengths lie in different areas. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which cartridge best suits your needs.
Ballistics: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Let's dive into the raw numbers. While specific loadings will vary between manufacturers, we can establish general performance differences:
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.450 Bushmaster: This cartridge boasts significantly heavier bullets, typically ranging from 250 to 300 grains. This translates to substantially higher energy transfer upon impact, resulting in greater knockdown power, especially on larger game. However, its larger diameter and heavier bullet lead to a flatter trajectory at shorter ranges but a quicker drop at longer ranges compared to the .350 Legend. Recoil is also more substantial.
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.350 Legend: With lighter bullets, usually between 145 and 180 grains, the .350 Legend offers higher velocity. This results in a flatter trajectory and less recoil, making it easier to handle and potentially more accurate for multiple shots. While delivering less raw energy, the higher velocity often leads to deeper penetration.
Here's a table summarizing the key ballistic differences:
| Feature | .450 Bushmaster | .350 Legend |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet Weight | 250-300 grains | 145-180 grains |
| Muzzle Energy | Significantly Higher | Lower |
| Recoil | Higher | Lower |
| Trajectory | Flatter at shorter ranges | Flatter at longer ranges |
| Penetration | Can be lower due to larger diameter | Generally deeper due to higher velocity |
| Range | Effective range is shorter | Effective range is generally longer |
Hunting Applications: Finding the Right Fit
The best cartridge ultimately depends on your hunting style and the game you target:
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.450 Bushmaster: Ideal for close-to-medium range hunting of larger game such as deer and wild hogs. Its impressive stopping power makes it effective even with less-than-perfect shot placement. The heavier bullet also offers better performance in dense brush where bullet deflection is a concern.
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.350 Legend: A versatile cartridge suitable for deer and smaller game like coyotes and pigs. Its flatter trajectory and reduced recoil make it a great choice for hunters who prioritize accuracy and multiple shot capability. The .350 Legend excels in open areas where longer shots are more common.
Rifle Platforms and Availability: Considerations for the Practical Shooter
Both cartridges are available in various AR-15 platform rifles, which greatly contributes to their popularity. However, it's crucial to ensure your chosen rifle is specifically chambered for the respective cartridge; .450 Bushmaster and .350 Legend are not interchangeable.
Ammunition availability can also vary regionally. While both cartridges are relatively common, checking local availability before committing to one or the other is always recommended.
Conclusion: The Verdict is... It Depends!
There's no single "winner" in the .450 Bushmaster vs. .350 Legend debate. The optimal choice hinges entirely on your specific hunting needs and preferences. Consider the size and type of game you'll be hunting, your shooting style, and the terrain you'll be hunting in. Careful consideration of these factors will guide you to the cartridge that best serves your needs and ensures a successful hunt.
