Choosing the right cartridge for hunting can be a daunting task, especially when faced with seemingly similar options. The 7mm-08 Remington and the .350 Legend are both popular choices, but they cater to different hunting styles and preferences. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which cartridge best suits your needs.
Ballistics: A Key Differentiator
The most significant difference between the 7mm-08 and the .350 Legend lies in their ballistics. The 7mm-08, a bottlenecked cartridge, is known for its flatter trajectory and longer range capabilities. Its higher velocity and smaller diameter bullet result in less wind drift and superior accuracy at extended distances. Conversely, the .350 Legend, a straight-walled cartridge, boasts a heavier bullet with greater stopping power at closer ranges. Its shorter, straighter trajectory makes it easier to manage in dense brush or wooded areas.
7mm-08 Advantages:
- Longer Range: Significantly superior accuracy and less wind drift at longer distances. Ideal for open fields and longer shots.
- Flatter Trajectory: Allows for easier compensation of bullet drop at extended ranges.
- Higher Velocity: Delivers more kinetic energy to the target, leading to cleaner kills.
.350 Legend Advantages:
- Greater Stopping Power: Heavier bullet delivers significant knock-down power at closer ranges, making it effective on larger game within its effective range.
- Suitable for Straight-Walled Cartridge States: Many states restrict the use of bottlenecked cartridges for certain hunts, making the .350 Legend a viable option.
- Reduced Recoil: Generally perceived as having less recoil than the 7mm-08, which can be advantageous for newer shooters.
Intended Game & Hunting Situations
The ideal application for each cartridge heavily influences the choice.
7mm-08 Remington:
- Ideal Game: Deer, antelope, coyotes, and other medium-sized game at longer ranges.
- Best Hunting Situations: Open fields, prairies, mountainous terrain where longer shots are expected.
.350 Legend:
- Ideal Game: Deer (within its effective range), hogs, and other medium-sized game at closer ranges.
- Best Hunting Situations: Dense woods, thick brush, and situations where shorter, more controlled shots are necessary.
Weaponry & Availability
Both cartridges are readily available, with a wide selection of firearms to choose from. However, the .350 Legend’s popularity has led to a surge in AR-15 platform rifles chambered for this round, offering versatility for hunters who also use ARs for other purposes. The 7mm-08, on the other hand, is typically found in bolt-action rifles, known for their accuracy and precision.
Recoil & Shootability
The 7mm-08 generally has more recoil than the .350 Legend. While experienced shooters will find both manageable, the lower recoil of the .350 Legend makes it a more comfortable choice for newer hunters or those sensitive to recoil.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cartridge
Ultimately, the "better" cartridge depends entirely on your individual hunting needs and preferences. The 7mm-08 excels at longer ranges and offers superior accuracy and flatter trajectory, making it perfect for open terrain and larger game. The .350 Legend provides significant stopping power at closer ranges and is an excellent choice for hunters operating in denser environments, where shots are generally shorter and more controlled. Consider your typical hunting scenarios, preferred shooting style, and target game before making your decision. Both are capable hunting rounds, but only one is the right fit for you.
