Understanding the 350 Legend Rifle
The 350 Legend Cartridge
The crisp air of the autumn hunt, the anticipation of the first shot – for many, these moments define the hunting experience. The choice of rifle is paramount, a decision that can make or break a successful outing. In recent years, the 350 Legend cartridge has become a strong contender in the hunting world, and with good reason. Its straight-walled design makes it legal in many areas with restrictions and offers a balanced blend of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil, making it ideal for both seasoned hunters and those new to the sport.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the top 350 Legend rifles on the market, examining their features, performance, and value to help you navigate the choices and find the perfect fit for your needs. Choosing a rifle is a personal journey, and this article will provide the information you need to make an informed decision.
The 350 Legend, a relatively new cartridge, has quickly gained a loyal following. It was designed from the ground up to excel in areas with straight-walled cartridge restrictions, often found in many Midwestern states. At its heart, it’s a straight-walled cartridge with a .357-inch bullet diameter, delivering impressive ballistics for its size. Ammunition commonly features bullet weights ranging from 124 to 180 grains, offering versatility for various hunting scenarios. You can expect muzzle velocities ranging from around 2100 fps to 2300 fps, depending on the bullet weight. This combination of velocity and bullet weight translates to excellent downrange performance, offering a flatter trajectory and more retained energy compared to other straight-walled cartridges.
While the 350 Legend is well-suited for hunting deer-sized game and even larger animals at moderate ranges, it is becoming popular for target shooting, too. The relatively light recoil is a major advantage, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods, and it makes the rifle an ideal platform for new shooters. The cartridge’s inherent accuracy allows for precise shot placement, contributing to a positive shooting experience.
Action Types and Features
The core of the 350 Legend rifle lies in its action type. Bolt-action rifles offer the ultimate in precision and reliability, providing the greatest flexibility in terms of aftermarket upgrades and customizations. These rifles are the go-to choice for hunters who value accuracy above all else. Semi-automatic rifles, often built on the AR-15 platform, offer faster follow-up shots, making them excellent choices for situations where multiple targets or follow-up shots are necessary. The AR-15 platform allows for rapid reloading, but be aware that these models might be limited in certain hunting areas. Lever-action rifles are a classic choice, known for their nostalgic appeal and reliable functionality.
Beyond the action type, a 350 Legend rifle often includes features like threaded barrels, which allow for the easy attachment of muzzle devices such as compensators or suppressors. The availability of a variety of magazines with differing capacities will depend on the model and action type. Reliable mounting options for optics, such as scopes, are another critical feature.
Why the 350 Legend is a Rising Star
The 350 Legend’s popularity is fueled by several factors. First and foremost is its legality. Many states restrict hunting to straight-walled cartridges, and the 350 Legend fits the bill perfectly. This opens up opportunities for hunters in these regions to use modern, effective cartridges legally.
Beyond legal considerations, the 350 Legend offers practical advantages. The cartridge’s relatively mild recoil makes it comfortable to shoot, particularly for beginners or those sensitive to recoil. The straight-walled design promotes good accuracy, making it easier to achieve precise shot placement. Finally, the 350 Legend is often more affordable than other high-performance cartridges. The availability of ammunition and rifles are constantly on the increase, making this an attractive choice for hunters on a budget.
Considering Your Needs Before Buying
Choosing the right 350 Legend rifle requires careful consideration. Ask yourself these questions:
What will you use it for? Hunting different game species requires different rifle characteristics. Target shooting demands a different level of accuracy.
What is your budget? Prices vary widely, so set a realistic budget.
What features are important to you? Do you need a threaded barrel for a suppressor? What stock material do you prefer?
How much accuracy do you need? This will influence the rifle action type you choose and whether you’re prepared to spend more on a higher quality rifle.
Answering these questions will help you narrow down the choices and make the best selection for you.
Leading Manufacturers in the 350 Legend Realm
Several manufacturers have embraced the 350 Legend cartridge, offering a range of rifles to suit diverse needs. Let’s explore some of the top contenders.
CMMG
CMMG has built a solid reputation for manufacturing high-quality AR-platform rifles. Their approach is innovative, and their products are reliable. They offer several 350 Legend AR-15 models, designed for both hunting and recreational shooting. These rifles typically come with a variety of features, including free-float handguards, adjustable stocks, and a choice of barrel lengths.
Ruger
Ruger is a household name in the firearms industry, known for its affordable and reliable rifles. They offer both bolt-action and AR-platform models. Ruger’s 350 Legend offerings often provide excellent value, making them a popular choice for hunters and shooters. They often include features like pre-drilled mounting surfaces for optics and durable, user-friendly designs.
Winchester
Winchester has a long and storied history, particularly in the world of hunting rifles. They are known for their bolt-action rifles and have introduced 350 Legend offerings that carry on the tradition. Winchester has earned its place in hunting as a trusted manufacturer and remains a force in the market.
Savage Arms
Savage Arms is celebrated for its accuracy-driven approach. They have a reputation for producing accurate, reliable bolt-action rifles at competitive prices. Savage has brought its expertise to the 350 Legend, offering models tailored to hunters and those who demand top-notch performance.
Detailed Exploration of Recommended Rifles (Example models – remember this is not an exhaustive list)
The sheer number of 350 Legend rifles available can feel overwhelming. Let’s dive into the details of a few that have consistently earned high praise, and illustrate the diversity in the market. Note that the specifics can change, and it’s essential to confirm the most up-to-date information with the manufacturer.
Ruger American Rifle in 350 Legend
Manufacturer: Ruger
Action Type: Bolt-Action
Barrel Length: Typically 16-22 inches, depending on the model
Overall Length: Varies based on barrel length, but compact and maneuverable
Weight: Relatively lightweight
Stock Material: Synthetic or Wood (varies by model)
Magazine Capacity: Varies, often uses a detachable box magazine
Approximate Price: Mid-range (often a strong value)
Detailed Review: The Ruger American Rifle chambered in 350 Legend consistently receives accolades for its accuracy and value. It’s built around Ruger’s proven bolt-action design, known for its reliability. The rifle is designed for easy optic mounting with a pre-drilled receiver, and offers a comfortable and ergonomic feel. In accuracy tests, it often produces impressive groupings at 100 yards, making it a great choice for hunters. Its light weight and manageable size add to its appeal. Pros: Excellent accuracy, great value, reliable action, and a wide selection of aftermarket accessories. Cons: The synthetic stock may not appeal to everyone from an aesthetic perspective.
CMMG Mk4 RESOLUTE in 350 Legend
Manufacturer: CMMG
Action Type: Semi-Automatic (AR-15 platform)
Barrel Length: Wide selection, 16-20 inches
Overall Length: Varies based on barrel length
Weight: Lightweight
Stock Material: Synthetic
Magazine Capacity: Compatible with standard AR-15 magazines
Approximate Price: Higher-end (reflects features and quality)
Detailed Review: The CMMG Mk4 RESOLUTE is a step up in terms of performance and quality. Built on the AR-15 platform, it offers the advantages of fast follow-up shots. The Mk4 RESOLUTE comes standard with a free-float handguard and an adjustable stock. The rifle is built to tight tolerances, contributing to its high level of accuracy. The modular design allows for a great degree of customization with various handguards, triggers, and optics mounting options. Pros: Excellent build quality, fast follow-up shots, high customization, and a good level of accuracy. Cons: Higher price point than bolt-action alternatives.
Savage Axis II in 350 Legend
Manufacturer: Savage Arms
Action Type: Bolt-Action
Barrel Length: Varies, often 20-22 inches
Overall Length: Varies based on barrel length
Weight: A bit heavier than Ruger American
Stock Material: Synthetic
Magazine Capacity: Detachable box magazine
Approximate Price: More affordable
Detailed Review: The Savage Axis II stands out as a great value offering, with a proven track record of accuracy. Savage’s AccuTrigger allows for a user-adjustable trigger pull, which contributes to improved accuracy. The rifle generally offers a solid platform for various types of shooting. Pros: Extremely accurate for its price, reliable, adjustable trigger. Cons: The stock material may not feel as premium as some other offerings.
Choosing the Right Accessories and Maintaining Your Rifle
Equipping your 350 Legend rifle with the right accessories will significantly enhance your shooting experience.
Optics: A high-quality scope is crucial. Consider factors like magnification range, objective lens size, and reticle type.
Ammunition: Experiment with different bullet weights and brands to find the most accurate load for your rifle.
Slings: A sling makes it easier to carry your rifle for extended periods, particularly during hunts.
Cleaning Kit: Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keeping your rifle in optimal condition.
Properly maintaining your 350 Legend rifle is key to its longevity and performance. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and lubrication. Store the rifle in a safe and dry place. Regularly inspect the rifle for wear and tear.
Conclusion
The 350 Legend cartridge has become a great choice for a variety of hunting situations. The “best” 350 Legend rifle depends on your individual needs and preferences. Both Ruger and Savage Arms provide great entry-level bolt-action rifles that offer great value. Those seeking faster follow-up shots and greater customization should look toward the CMMG AR-15 platform. Ultimately, the best choice balances accuracy, reliability, and price, aligning with your specific hunting or shooting goals.
We hope this guide has provided you with a clearer understanding of the best 350 Legend rifles on the market. Now go out, explore the options, and enjoy the experience of finding the right rifle for you.
