Choosing between the .350 Legend and the .450 Bushmaster often comes down to specific hunting needs and personal preferences. Both are powerful cartridges designed for hunting larger game within shorter ranges, but they differ significantly in their characteristics and applications. This detailed comparison will help you decide which cartridge best suits your requirements.
Ballistics and Performance: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Let's delve into the key ballistic differences that define each cartridge's strengths and limitations.
.350 Legend:
- Caliber: .357 inches
- Case: Straight-walled, allowing for use in many states where bottleneck cartridges are restricted.
- Velocity: Generally lower than the .450 Bushmaster, typically around 2200 fps with a 180-grain bullet.
- Energy: Delivers considerable energy, suitable for deer-sized game within its effective range.
- Recoil: More manageable recoil compared to the .450 Bushmaster.
- Trajectory: Offers a flatter trajectory than the .450 Bushmaster.
.450 Bushmaster:
- Caliber: .452 inches
- Case: Straight-walled, complying with many state regulations on cartridge types.
- Velocity: Generally slower than the .350 Legend, usually around 2000 fps with a 250-grain bullet.
- Energy: Packs a significantly greater punch, making it suitable for larger game like bear or hog.
- Recoil: Noticeably heavier recoil compared to the .350 Legend.
- Trajectory: A steeper trajectory than the .350 Legend, requiring more precise aiming at longer distances.
Hunting Applications: Where Each Cartridge Shines
The choice between the .350 Legend and the .450 Bushmaster is heavily influenced by the type of game you intend to hunt and your hunting style.
.350 Legend: Ideal for:
- Deer hunting: Provides sufficient stopping power for deer-sized game at reasonable ranges. Its flatter trajectory and manageable recoil make it suitable for various hunting scenarios.
- Hog hunting: Effective for hogs, especially within shorter ranges. The higher velocity aids in quick, clean kills.
- Shorter-range hunting: The flatter trajectory makes it a better choice for shots under 200 yards.
.450 Bushmaster: Best Suited For:
- Larger game hunting: Its substantial energy makes it well-suited for hunting larger game like bear, or particularly large hogs, at closer ranges.
- Close-range encounters: The heavy bullet and significant stopping power are optimal for situations requiring immediate incapacitation.
- Situations requiring maximum stopping power: When facing larger, more dangerous game, the increased stopping power of the .450 Bushmaster is a considerable advantage.
Recoil and Shootability: A Matter of Personal Preference
Recoil management is a crucial factor in choosing a cartridge. The .350 Legend boasts far less recoil, making it easier to shoot accurately, especially for new or less experienced shooters. The .450 Bushmaster’s significant recoil requires more practice and may prove tiring during longer hunting sessions.
Availability of Ammunition and Firearms: Practical Considerations
Both cartridges enjoy considerable popularity, resulting in good availability of ammunition and firearms. However, the .350 Legend might offer a slightly wider selection due to its newer introduction to the market, though this depends on your specific location and retailer.
Conclusion: The Verdict
The best cartridge—the .350 Legend or the .450 Bushmaster—ultimately depends on your individual needs and hunting preferences. The .350 Legend is a versatile option offering manageable recoil, suitable for a wide range of deer and hog hunting situations. The .450 Bushmaster, on the other hand, provides superior stopping power for larger and more dangerous game at close range, but at the expense of heavier recoil. Consider your hunting targets, preferred shooting style, and personal comfort level with recoil when making your decision. Thorough research and potentially even range time with both calibers will help you arrive at the most informed choice.
