The .350 Legend cartridge has quickly gained popularity among hunters, particularly for its effectiveness in hog hunting. Its relatively flat trajectory, manageable recoil, and potent stopping power make it a compelling choice for taking down feral hogs. This guide dives deep into why the .350 Legend excels in hog hunting, exploring its advantages, limitations, and optimal ammunition selection.
Why the .350 Legend Shines in Hog Hunting
Several key features make the .350 Legend a strong contender for hog hunting:
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Flatter Trajectory: Compared to many other popular hunting cartridges, the .350 Legend boasts a flatter trajectory. This means less bullet drop at longer ranges, allowing for more accurate shots, especially crucial when hunting elusive hogs. This is particularly advantageous in open fields or when engaging hogs at longer distances.
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Manageable Recoil: The .350 Legend's relatively mild recoil makes it easier to shoot accurately, especially for novice hunters or those with less upper body strength. Reduced recoil translates to faster follow-up shots if needed.
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Stopping Power: Despite its manageable recoil, the .350 Legend delivers significant stopping power. Its larger diameter bullet (.35 caliber) and heavier bullet weights transfer substantial energy to the target, resulting in effective hog takedowns. Proper shot placement remains crucial, of course.
Ammunition Selection: Choosing the Right Rounds
Choosing the right ammunition can significantly impact your hunting success. Consider these factors when selecting .350 Legend rounds for hog hunting:
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Bullet Weight: Heavier bullets (e.g., 180-grain) generally offer greater penetration and energy transfer, which is beneficial for larger hogs. Lighter bullets (e.g., 150-grain) might be suitable for smaller hogs or situations requiring a flatter trajectory at longer ranges.
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Bullet Construction: Expandability is key for ethical and humane hog hunting. Look for bullets designed for controlled expansion, ensuring sufficient energy transfer while minimizing excessive tissue damage. Solid copper or bonded bullets are popular choices for their consistent performance.
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Velocity: Higher velocity generally means a flatter trajectory and increased energy, although this often comes at the cost of increased recoil. Find a balance that suits your shooting style and hunting situations.
Limitations of the .350 Legend for Hog Hunting
While the .350 Legend offers numerous advantages, it's crucial to acknowledge its limitations:
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Range: While its trajectory is flatter than some other cartridges, the .350 Legend's effective range is still shorter than some higher-powered hunting rounds. Accurate shots at longer distances become more challenging.
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Penetration: While its stopping power is substantial, penetration may be an issue when hunting larger or tougher hogs, particularly when using less robust bullet construction.
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Availability: Although gaining popularity, ammunition availability for the .350 Legend might be less widespread than for more established hunting cartridges in some areas.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice, But Consider Your Needs
The .350 Legend is a solid and versatile cartridge well-suited for hog hunting, offering a good balance of manageable recoil, stopping power, and a relatively flat trajectory. However, it's essential to understand its limitations and carefully select ammunition based on the size of the hogs you are hunting and the hunting conditions. Always prioritize ethical and safe hunting practices, ensuring proper shot placement and responsible use of your firearm. A thorough understanding of your weapon and ammunition is key to successful and safe hog hunting.
