The .350 Legend cartridge, designed for use in AR-15 style platforms, has quickly gained popularity among hunters and shooters. Its versatility and relatively mild recoil make it a compelling option for various applications, from varmint hunting to deer hunting. A critical component of any .350 Legend build is the ammunition, specifically the bullet. This guide will explore the diverse range of 355 diameter bullets available for the 350 Legend, examining their characteristics and applications.
Understanding .350 Legend Bullets: Diameter vs. Caliber
It's crucial to understand the difference between caliber and bullet diameter. While the .350 Legend is referred to as a ".350" caliber cartridge, the actual diameter of the bullet is slightly larger, typically measuring around .355 inches. This is because the bullet needs to fit snugly within the rifling of the barrel, engaging the grooves to impart spin and accuracy. Therefore, when searching for ammunition, you'll commonly find bullets advertised as .355 diameter bullets designed for .350 Legend cartridges.
Types of 355 Bullets for 350 Legend
The market offers a variety of .355 diameter bullets designed specifically for the .350 Legend, each with unique characteristics tailored to different hunting and shooting applications. These differences primarily relate to bullet weight, construction, and design.
1. Jacketed Hollow Points (JHP):
- Characteristics: These bullets feature a lead core encased in a metal jacket, with a hollow cavity in the tip. This design promotes expansion upon impact, increasing stopping power and energy transfer.
- Applications: Ideal for hunting medium-sized game like deer, as well as self-defense applications. Their expansion increases the wound channel, leading to a quicker and more humane kill.
2. Full Metal Jacket (FMJ):
- Characteristics: FMJ bullets have a solid lead core completely encased in a metal jacket. This design prevents expansion upon impact, resulting in higher penetration and less deformation.
- Applications: Primarily used for target practice and plinking due to their consistent performance and lower cost. They can also be suitable for varmint hunting where deep penetration is required.
3. Soft Point (SP):
- Characteristics: These bullets have a lead core partially exposed at the tip, promoting expansion while maintaining good penetration. They offer a balance between expansion and penetration, making them a versatile choice.
- Applications: Suitable for hunting a range of game, from small varmints to medium-sized game. Their performance is reliable and consistent.
4. Polymer-Tipped Bullets:
- Characteristics: These bullets feature a polymer tip, which enhances ballistic coefficient and accuracy, often resulting in flatter trajectories.
- Applications: Ideal for long-range shooting and hunting, where precise shot placement is crucial.
5. Controlled Expansion Bullets:
- Characteristics: These bullets are specifically engineered to expand reliably while maintaining a high level of penetration. Manufacturers utilize various design elements to achieve this controlled expansion, such as specific jacket thicknesses and core materials.
- Applications: Excellent choice for hunting applications where both expansion and penetration are needed for ethical and reliable performance.
Choosing the Right 355 Bullet for Your Needs
Selecting the appropriate bullet depends entirely on your intended application. Consider the following factors:
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Game Size: Larger game requires heavier bullets with better penetration and expansion. Smaller game may suffice with lighter bullets.
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Range: Longer ranges necessitate bullets with a higher ballistic coefficient to maintain accuracy and energy.
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Intended Use: Target shooting demands different characteristics compared to hunting. FMJ's are typically preferred for target practice, whereas hunting necessitates expansion for ethical harvest.
Conclusion
The availability of a wide array of .355 diameter bullets for the .350 Legend allows shooters and hunters to tailor their ammunition to their specific needs. Understanding the different bullet types and their characteristics is crucial for selecting the right ammunition to ensure safe and effective shooting and hunting experiences. Remember always to consult local regulations and hunting laws regarding appropriate ammunition choices for your area.
