The 400 Legend cartridge, designed for use in AR-15 platforms, has rapidly gained popularity among shooters and hunters. Its versatility, accuracy, and manageable recoil make it a compelling choice for various applications. This guide explores the world of 400 Legend bullets for reloading, helping you choose the right projectile for your specific needs.
Understanding 400 Legend Ballistics
Before diving into bullet selection, understanding 400 Legend ballistics is crucial. The cartridge's relatively short, straight-walled case contributes to its performance in shorter barrels, making it ideal for AR-15 platform carbines. However, this design also necessitates careful consideration of bullet weight, profile, and construction to optimize accuracy and effectiveness. Factors like bullet diameter (.401 inches), sectional density, and ballistic coefficient directly impact downrange performance and trajectory.
Types of 400 Legend Bullets for Reloading
The market offers a diverse range of 400 Legend bullets catering to various applications. Let's examine the prominent types:
1. Lead Bullets:
- Advantages: Affordable and readily available. Good for target practice and plinking.
- Disadvantages: May not be suitable for hunting due to lower expansion and potential for leading in the barrel. Not ideal for high-velocity applications.
- Best Use Cases: Target shooting, practice.
2. Jacketed Hollow Points (JHP):
- Advantages: Excellent expansion and stopping power. Widely considered the best choice for hunting applications. Better accuracy and barrel protection compared to lead bullets.
- Disadvantages: More expensive than lead bullets. May not cycle reliably in all firearms.
- Best Use Cases: Hunting, self-defense.
3. Jacketed Soft Points (JSP):
- Advantages: A balance between expansion and penetration. Good for hunting medium-sized game. Generally, reliable in a wider range of firearms.
- Disadvantages: Not as readily available as JHPs in the 400 Legend caliber.
- Best Use Cases: Hunting medium-sized game.
4. Full Metal Jacket (FMJ):
- Advantages: Excellent for target practice due to high accuracy and long barrel life. Penetrates deeply, often necessary for certain hunting applications on larger game.
- Disadvantages: Limited expansion, making them less suitable for self-defense or hunting unless specifically designed with a heavier grain weight.
- Best Use Cases: Target practice, long-range shooting, pest control (depending on the weight and design).
Choosing the Right Bullet Weight
Bullet weight significantly influences the 400 Legend's ballistics. Heavier bullets tend to have flatter trajectories and better penetration but may have more recoil. Lighter bullets have less recoil but may have a steeper trajectory and less penetration. The ideal weight depends on your intended application:
- Hunting: 180-200 grain bullets are commonly preferred for their balance of energy and penetration.
- Self-Defense: A range of bullet weights can be effective, but heavier bullets are generally favoured for their greater stopping power.
- Target Shooting: Bullet weight selection is less critical; choose a weight that provides consistent accuracy with your firearm.
Reloading Components and Safety
Reloading 400 Legend ammunition requires the appropriate components: bullets, cases, primers, and powder. Always prioritize safety and follow reloading manuals and guidelines meticulously. Improper reloading practices can result in dangerous situations.
Remember to consult your firearm's manual for recommended ammunition specifications and always use appropriate safety gear. Experimentation is key to finding the optimal load for your specific firearm and chosen bullet. Accurate record-keeping of your load data is essential for consistent and safe reloading.
Conclusion
Selecting the correct 400 Legend bullets for reloading depends heavily on your intended use. By understanding the different bullet types, weights, and considering your specific needs, you can achieve optimal accuracy, performance, and safety. Remember always to prioritize safety and adhere strictly to established reloading guidelines.
