The .350 Legend cartridge, with its potent performance and manageable recoil, has quickly gained popularity among hunters and target shooters. This guide provides comprehensive load data for the .350 Legend, emphasizing safety and accuracy. Always consult your firearm's owner's manual for recommended load data and pressure limits before attempting to reload ammunition. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional reloading guidance.
Understanding the .350 Legend
Before diving into load data, let's understand the cartridge's characteristics. The .350 Legend is designed for use in AR-15 platform rifles, offering a significant advantage in bullet diameter and energy over the common .223 Remington or 5.56x45mm NATO rounds. Its larger bullet diameter delivers greater stopping power and improved accuracy at longer ranges, making it suitable for hunting medium-sized game.
Key Considerations for Reloading .350 Legend
Safe and accurate reloading requires meticulous attention to detail. Here are crucial factors to consider:
1. Powder Selection:
Choosing the right powder is paramount. Several powders are suitable for the .350 Legend, each exhibiting different burn rates and performance characteristics. Popular choices include:
- AccurateShooter #9: Known for its versatility and consistent performance.
- IMR-4227: A popular choice offering good accuracy and velocity.
- Hodgdon CFE BLK: A relatively new powder known for its clean burning properties.
Note: Always refer to the latest reloading manuals from reputable manufacturers (Hodgdon, Accurate Arms, IMR) for updated powder recommendations and load data.
2. Bullet Selection:
Bullet weight significantly influences the performance of your .350 Legend loads. Common bullet weights range from 145 grains to 180 grains. Factors to consider include:
- Bullet type: Choosing between jacketed, lead, or copper bullets depends on your intended use (hunting, target practice).
- Bullet profile: Different bullet profiles (e.g., round nose, flat nose, hollow point) affect accuracy and trajectory.
3. Case Preparation:
Proper case preparation is essential for consistent performance. This includes:
- Sizing: Ensure consistent case dimensions using the correct sizing die.
- Trimming: Trim cases to the proper length for optimal functionality.
- Deburring: Remove any burrs or imperfections from the case mouth and primer pocket.
- Cleaning: Clean cases thoroughly to remove any residue from previous firings.
4. Primer Selection:
Use primers specifically designed for rifle ammunition. Small rifle primers are typically used for the .350 Legend. Ensure primers are seated correctly and firmly.
Sample Load Data (Illustrative Only – Not a Substitute for Manufacturer Data)
The following data is for illustrative purposes only and should not be used without consulting current reloading manuals from reputable sources. Variations in components and equipment can affect pressure and accuracy.
| Powder | Bullet Weight (grains) | Bullet Type | Primer | Charge Weight (grains) | COL (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AccurateShooter #9 | 150 | Jacketed Soft Point | Small Rifle | 23.0 – 24.0 | 2.26 | (Illustrative only – verify with manual) |
| IMR-4227 | 180 | Jacketed Flat Nose | Small Rifle | 26.0 – 27.0 | 2.28 | (Illustrative only – verify with manual) |
Disclaimer: This data is provided for informational purposes only. It is crucial to consult the latest reloading manuals from reputable powder and component manufacturers before attempting to reload ammunition. Incorrect reloading practices can result in serious injury or death. Always prioritize safety and follow all manufacturer's recommendations.
Further Resources
For the most accurate and up-to-date load data, always consult the following resources:
- Hodgdon Powder Company: Provides comprehensive reloading data for their powders.
- Accurate Arms: Another reputable powder manufacturer with detailed reloading information.
- IMR Powder: A leading powder manufacturer offering detailed load data.
- Your Firearm Manufacturer's Manual: Contains crucial safety information and specific recommendations for your firearm.
By carefully following these guidelines and prioritizing safety, you can confidently and successfully reload .350 Legend ammunition, ensuring optimal performance and accuracy. Remember, responsible reloading practices are paramount.
