The .350 Legend cartridge has quickly gained popularity among hunters and sport shooters, largely due to its potent performance in shorter barrels—a significant advantage for AR-platform builds and compact hunting rifles. Understanding the ballistics of the .350 Legend, specifically from a 16-inch barrel, is crucial for making informed decisions about ammunition selection and target acquisition.
Velocity and Energy from a 16-Inch Barrel
A key factor influencing .350 Legend ballistics is barrel length. While longer barrels generally yield higher velocities, the 16-inch barrel offers a practical compromise between portability and performance. Expect a noticeable reduction in muzzle velocity compared to longer barrels (e.g., 20-inch or 24-inch), but the retained energy remains substantial for its intended applications.
The exact velocity and energy figures depend heavily on the specific ammunition used. Factors such as bullet weight, bullet design (e.g., jacketed hollow point, full metal jacket, soft point), and powder load all play a role. However, we can provide general expectations:
- Bullet Weight: Heavier bullets (e.g., 180-grain) will generally have lower velocities but higher retained energy at a given distance compared to lighter bullets (e.g., 150-grain).
- Bullet Design: Different bullet designs affect penetration, expansion, and trajectory. Hollow point bullets are designed for expansion upon impact, increasing stopping power on game animals, while full metal jacket bullets offer deeper penetration.
- Powder Load: The amount of propellant used directly influences muzzle velocity. Higher powder loads generally translate to faster velocities.
You'll find that manufacturers publish velocity and energy data for their ammunition, often specifying barrel length. Always refer to the manufacturer's specifications for the most accurate ballistics information for your chosen load.
Trajectory Considerations
The shorter barrel length of 16 inches impacts trajectory. Compared to longer barrels, you'll likely see a more pronounced bullet drop at longer ranges. This necessitates more precise aiming, potentially requiring adjustments to your point of aim at various distances. Using a ballistic calculator with the specific ammunition data you plan to use is recommended to determine the bullet's trajectory.
Choosing the Right Ammunition for your 16-Inch Barrel .350 Legend
When selecting ammunition for your 16-inch barrel .350 Legend, consider your intended use. For hunting, factors like bullet weight, bullet design, and expansion characteristics are paramount. For target shooting, accuracy and consistency are key.
Remember that while the .350 Legend offers excellent performance from a 16-inch barrel, it's crucial to understand the limitations. Accuracy may decrease slightly at longer ranges compared to rifles with longer barrels. Always practice at various distances to understand your rifle's performance and develop appropriate shooting techniques.
Conclusion: Optimizing Your 16-Inch .350 Legend Setup
The .350 Legend in a 16-inch barrel provides a potent and practical hunting and shooting platform. By carefully selecting ammunition appropriate for your intended use and understanding the ballistics specific to your setup, you can maximize your accuracy and effectiveness. Remember to always prioritize safety and responsible firearm handling.
