Choosing the right cartridge can significantly impact your hunting success and overall shooting experience. The .350 Legend and the .45-70 Government represent distinct approaches to hunting and shooting, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This in-depth comparison will help you determine which cartridge best suits your needs.
Ballistics and Performance: A Head-to-Head Look
The fundamental differences between the .350 Legend and the .45-70 Government lie in their ballistics. The .350 Legend is a relatively newer cartridge, designed for modern sporting rifles, while the .45-70 is a historical powerhouse, known for its significant stopping power.
.350 Legend:
- Caliber: .357 inches
- Velocity: Generally ranges from 2200 to 2400 fps (feet per second) depending on the load and barrel length.
- Energy: Delivers moderate energy, suitable for deer-sized game within its effective range.
- Recoil: Known for relatively low recoil, making it comfortable for novice shooters.
- Trajectory: A flatter trajectory compared to the .45-70, allowing for more precise shots at longer ranges.
.45-70 Government:
- Caliber: .458 inches
- Velocity: Typically ranges from 1800 to 2200 fps, significantly lower than the .350 Legend.
- Energy: Possesses substantially higher energy than the .350 Legend, making it exceptionally effective for large game hunting.
- Recoil: Features significant recoil, requiring experience and proper shooting technique.
- Trajectory: A more pronounced arc in its trajectory due to its heavier bullet and lower velocity, limiting effective range compared to the .350 Legend.
Hunting Applications: Deer vs. Larger Game
The choice between these cartridges hinges largely on your intended game.
.350 Legend:
- Ideal for: Deer hunting at moderate ranges. Its flatter trajectory and manageable recoil make it well-suited for shots within 200 yards. Its relatively light recoil also makes it an excellent choice for beginners.
- Limitations: Its energy might prove insufficient for larger game animals or shots at longer distances.
.45-70 Government:
- Ideal for: Larger game animals such as bear, elk, and moose. Its immense stopping power is ideal for taking down heavy game. It's a highly effective cartridge at closer ranges.
- Limitations: The significant recoil can be challenging for inexperienced shooters. Its trajectory arc necessitates careful range estimation and shot placement.
Rifle Availability and Cost
The availability and cost of rifles chambered in these cartridges also play a significant role in the decision-making process.
- .350 Legend: Relatively newer cartridge, so rifles in this caliber are widely available from various manufacturers at a range of price points.
- .45-70 Government: Historically significant cartridge, offering a broad selection of rifles, from lever-action to bolt-action models. Costs can vary depending on the manufacturer and rifle features. However, finding a used rifle might prove more cost-effective.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cartridge
The best cartridge for you depends entirely on your hunting style, experience level, and intended game. The .350 Legend shines with its manageable recoil, flatter trajectory, and suitability for deer hunting at moderate ranges. The .45-70 Government, however, remains a powerful choice for hunting larger game, although its recoil and trajectory should be considered. Thorough research and careful consideration of individual needs are crucial for making an informed decision.
