Choosing the right cartridge can significantly impact your hunting or shooting experience. The 350 Legend and 450 Bushmaster are both popular AR-platform cartridges, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This in-depth comparison will highlight the key differences to help you make an informed decision.
Cartridge Size and Ballistics: A Head-to-Head
The most significant difference lies in their size and resulting ballistic performance. The 450 Bushmaster boasts a significantly larger diameter bullet (.452 inches) compared to the 350 Legend (.358 inches). This translates to substantially more stopping power for the 450 Bushmaster, making it a potent choice for larger game.
Muzzle Energy and Velocity:
| Cartridge | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Muzzle Energy (ft-lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 350 Legend | ~2200 - 2400 | ~1400 - 1700 |
| 450 Bushmaster | ~2000 - 2200 | ~2000 - 2400 |
As you can see, the 450 Bushmaster delivers considerably higher muzzle energy, making it ideal for heavier game. The 350 Legend, while possessing less stopping power, has a higher muzzle velocity, leading to a flatter trajectory at longer ranges.
Recoil:
The increased power of the 450 Bushmaster results in noticeable recoil, potentially affecting follow-up shots. The 350 Legend is noticeably softer shooting, making it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions and less experienced shooters.
Hunting Applications: Whitetail Deer and Beyond
Both cartridges are suitable for hunting, but their effectiveness varies depending on the game.
350 Legend:
- Ideal for: Deer-sized game within reasonable ranges. Its flatter trajectory makes it suitable for shots at moderate distances. The lighter recoil allows for quicker follow-up shots if needed.
- Suitable for: Whitetail deer, coyotes, and hogs. It's a good all-around cartridge for smaller game hunting.
450 Bushmaster:
- Ideal for: Larger game requiring greater stopping power. Its higher muzzle energy ensures effective takedowns, even on tougher animals.
- Suitable for: Larger deer (elk-sized game in some states with appropriate bullet selection), hogs, and potentially black bear (depending on regulations and shot placement). Not ideal for smaller game due to potential overpenetration and excessive damage.
Practical Considerations:
- Ammunition Availability: While both cartridges are readily available, the 350 Legend enjoys wider distribution in some regions. Check your local retailers before committing to either.
- Rifle Selection: Both are chambered in AR-platform rifles, offering modularity and customization options. However, ensure your chosen rifle is designed specifically for the selected cartridge, as pressure differences could lead to safety hazards.
- Cost: The price of ammunition can fluctuate, but generally speaking, the 450 Bushmaster rounds tend to be slightly more expensive than 350 Legend.
Conclusion: The Right Cartridge for the Right Job
The choice between the 350 Legend and 450 Bushmaster hinges on your hunting or shooting priorities. The 350 Legend offers a better balance of flat trajectory, manageable recoil, and affordability, making it ideal for deer-sized game and casual shooting. The 450 Bushmaster, with its superior stopping power, excels in situations demanding more energy but comes with increased recoil. Carefully weigh the ballistic differences, your hunting targets, and personal preferences before making your decision.
