Choosing the right cartridge can significantly impact your hunting or shooting experience. Both the .350 Legend and the .450 Bushmaster are popular choices for hunting and self-defense, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This detailed comparison explores the key differences between these two powerful cartridges, helping you determine which one aligns best with your requirements.
Caliber and Ballistics: A Tale of Two Cartridges
The most significant difference lies in their caliber and resulting ballistics. The .350 Legend fires a .35 caliber (9mm) bullet, while the .450 Bushmaster fires a significantly larger .452 caliber (11.5mm) bullet. This difference translates directly into drastically different energy levels and effective ranges.
Bullet Diameter and Energy:
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.350 Legend: Features a smaller, faster bullet, leading to flatter trajectories and potentially better accuracy at longer ranges (within its limitations). It delivers less stopping power compared to the .450 Bushmaster.
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.450 Bushmaster: Packs a much heavier punch. Its larger diameter bullet delivers substantially more energy, making it highly effective at close to medium ranges for hunting larger game. The heavier bullet also has a more pronounced drop at longer distances.
Recoil:
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.350 Legend: Generally experiences manageable recoil, making it suitable for shooters of all skill levels. This lower recoil contributes to better follow-up shots.
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.450 Bushmaster: The larger caliber and heavier bullet result in significantly more recoil. While experienced shooters can manage this, it can be challenging for beginners and may limit the number of shots a shooter can comfortably take in rapid succession.
Hunting Applications: Matching Cartridge to Game
The choice between these cartridges hinges largely on the type of game you intend to hunt.
.350 Legend:
Ideal for hunting smaller to medium-sized game like deer, hogs, and coyotes at moderate ranges. Its flatter trajectory makes it suitable for shots within its effective range. The lighter recoil allows for faster follow-up shots if needed.
.450 Bushmaster:
Better suited for hunting larger game like bears and boar, particularly at closer ranges. Its superior stopping power compensates for its shorter effective range. Its heavier recoil should be considered when choosing this cartridge.
Practical Considerations: Ammunition Availability and Cost
While both cartridges are readily available, the .350 Legend enjoys slightly wider availability and often comes at a lower cost per round than the .450 Bushmaster. This difference in cost can become significant when considering the volume of ammunition needed for practice and hunting.
Firearms Compatibility: Finding the Right Rifle
Both cartridges require specifically designed rifles. Ensure you select a firearm chambered for the appropriate cartridge. You cannot interchange ammunition between the two.
Summary Table: A Quick Reference Guide
| Feature | .350 Legend | .450 Bushmaster |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .35 caliber (9mm) | .452 caliber (11.5mm) |
| Bullet Energy | Lower | Higher |
| Recoil | Low | High |
| Effective Range | Moderate | Shorter, but effective at close range |
| Ideal Game | Deer, hogs, coyotes | Bear, boar, large game at close to medium range |
| Ammunition Cost | Generally Lower | Generally Higher |
| Availability | Widely Available | Widely Available, but potentially less than .350 Legend |
Choosing between the .350 Legend and .450 Bushmaster depends on your hunting needs, shooting experience, and budget. Consider the factors discussed above to make an informed decision. Consult with experienced hunters and firearm professionals for personalized advice.
