The Remington 700, a legendary name in bolt-action rifles, has embraced the burgeoning popularity of the .350 Legend cartridge. This combination offers a compelling blend of accuracy, power, and versatility, making it a strong contender for various hunting and shooting applications. This in-depth analysis will explore the specifics of the Remington 700 chambered in .350 Legend, focusing on its performance characteristics, key features, and suitability for different uses.
Understanding the .350 Legend Cartridge
Before delving into the Remington 700's performance with this cartridge, let's establish a baseline understanding of the .350 Legend itself. Developed by Remington, this cartridge is designed for short-range hunting applications, particularly for deer-sized game. Its key advantages include:
- Reduced Recoil: Compared to more powerful cartridges like the .308 Winchester or .30-06 Springfield, the .350 Legend offers significantly less recoil, making it more comfortable for shooters of all experience levels and physical builds. This reduced recoil translates to faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy.
- Subsonic Capabilities: Certain .350 Legend loadings operate at subsonic speeds, which minimizes noise, a valuable asset for hunting or practicing in noise-sensitive areas.
- Straight-Walled Case: This design is compatible with AR-15 platform rifles, opening up a wider range of firearm choices for users. However, the Remington 700 platform remains a popular choice for its renowned accuracy and robust build.
- Effective Range: While not suitable for long-range shots, the .350 Legend maintains sufficient energy for ethical and humane hunting within its effective range, typically under 200 yards.
Remington 700 .350 Legend: Performance and Features
The Remington 700's reputation is built on its accuracy, reliability, and adaptability. When paired with the .350 Legend, this platform delivers a highly effective hunting rifle. Let's examine its key features:
Accuracy and Ballistics
The Remington 700's renowned accuracy is largely due to its three-lug bolt, which ensures consistent and reliable feeding and ejection. Combined with the .350 Legend's relatively stable trajectory, the rifle delivers consistent groupings at typical hunting distances. The precise barrel rifling contributes to enhanced accuracy, allowing for precise shot placement on game.
Barrel Length and Construction
The barrel length on Remington 700 .350 Legend models typically falls within a range that optimizes the cartridge's performance. The specific length will influence velocity and accuracy. The barrel material (often a high-quality steel alloy) is crucial for durability and longevity.
Stock and Ergonomics
The stock design influences the rifle's handling and comfort. Remington 700s usually offer a variety of stock options, allowing shooters to choose a configuration that best suits their body type and shooting style.
Action and Trigger
The Remington 700 action is smooth and reliable, contributing to the rifle's overall ease of use. The trigger mechanism is usually adjustable for fine-tuning, allowing the shooter to personalize their trigger pull weight.
Suitable Applications for the Remington 700 .350 Legend
The versatility of the Remington 700 .350 Legend makes it suitable for a range of hunting and shooting activities:
- Whitetail Deer Hunting: The .350 Legend's energy and accuracy are ideal for ethical harvesting of whitetail deer within its effective range.
- Hog Hunting: Its stopping power is effective against feral hogs, making it a popular choice for hog hunting.
- Target Shooting: The reduced recoil allows for comfortable target practice and improved shooting skills development.
Conclusion
The Remington 700 in .350 Legend presents a compelling option for hunters and shooters seeking a powerful yet manageable cartridge in a proven and reliable platform. Its balance of power, accuracy, and reduced recoil makes it a versatile tool for a variety of applications. The reputation of the Remington 700, combined with the performance characteristics of the .350 Legend, solidifies its place as a strong contender in the hunting rifle market. Remember to always prioritize safe gun handling practices and adhere to local hunting regulations.
