The .35 Remington, a powerful lever-action cartridge, has a long and storied history, particularly with hunters pursuing big game in North American forests. Within its legacy, the 200-grain Core-Lokt bullet stands out as a popular and effective choice. This in-depth analysis will explore the .35 Remington 200-grain Core-Lokt, examining its ballistics, applications, and overall performance.
Understanding the .35 Remington Cartridge
Before diving into the specifics of the Core-Lokt, it's important to understand the .35 Remington cartridge itself. Introduced in 1907, this relatively low-velocity but powerfully built cartridge was designed for use in lever-action rifles, offering a significant advantage over smaller calibers for taking down larger game animals. Its substantial bullet diameter and heavy bullet weights deliver impressive stopping power at moderate ranges. The .35 Remington's popularity has endured, primarily among hunters appreciating its effectiveness in dense brush and its manageable recoil.
The 200-Grain Core-Lokt: A Closer Look
Remington's Core-Lokt bullet design is renowned for its reliable expansion and penetration. The 200-grain Core-Lokt, specifically designed for the .35 Remington, features a jacketed bullet with a soft lead core. This combination ensures controlled expansion upon impact, maximizing energy transfer to the target while maintaining sufficient penetration for a clean kill. The Core-Lokt's performance is particularly well-suited to the .35 Remington's relatively low velocity, resulting in effective hunting performance.
Ballistic Performance:
While precise ballistic data can vary slightly depending on barrel length, twist rate, and environmental conditions, the 200-grain Core-Lokt in a .35 Remington generally exhibits:
- Moderate Muzzle Velocity: Expect a muzzle velocity in the range of 2000-2200 feet per second (fps).
- Sufficient Energy: This velocity, combined with the bullet's weight, provides ample energy for taking down medium-sized game animals, such as deer, within its effective range.
- Controlled Expansion: The Core-Lokt design ensures reliable expansion, leading to a humane and efficient harvest.
- Deep Penetration: Despite the expansion, the bullet maintains sufficient penetration to reach vital organs even when encountering bone.
Optimal Hunting Applications:
The .35 Remington 200-grain Core-Lokt is ideal for hunting various medium-sized game animals, including:
- Whitetail Deer: A common and highly effective choice for whitetail deer hunting, particularly in brushy terrain where shots might be at closer ranges.
- Black Bear (smaller): In suitable circumstances and with proper shot placement, it can be used for smaller black bears. Always consult your local regulations and consider using a more powerful cartridge for larger bears.
- Hogs: The .35 Remington's power effectively handles wild hogs.
Considerations for Use:
- Effective Range: While the cartridge is powerful, its relatively low velocity limits its effective range. Accurate shots beyond 150-200 yards should be avoided.
- Recoil: The .35 Remington has manageable recoil for most shooters but is still noticeable. Proper shooting technique and practice are essential.
- Ammunition Availability: .35 Remington ammunition, including the 200-grain Core-Lokt, is generally readily available, but it's always wise to purchase ammo well in advance of hunting season.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for the Experienced Hunter
The .35 Remington 200-grain Core-Lokt is a time-tested and reliable cartridge combination well-suited for hunting medium-sized game animals in North America. Its proven effectiveness, manageable recoil, and readily available ammunition make it a popular choice among seasoned hunters. However, understanding its limitations regarding effective range and appropriate game is crucial for safe and ethical hunting practices. Always remember to practice proper shooting techniques and prioritize responsible firearm handling.
