The 350 Legend cartridge has quickly gained popularity among hunters and shooters alike, offering a potent round suitable for various applications. Hornady, a trusted name in ammunition, offers its Black line of 350 Legend, promising exceptional performance. This review delves into the Hornady Black 350 Legend, examining its ballistics, accuracy, and overall suitability for hunting and recreational shooting.
Ballistics and Performance: What Makes Hornady Black Stand Out?
Hornady Black ammunition is designed for superior accuracy and consistent performance. This is achieved through a combination of high-quality components and meticulous manufacturing processes. Specifically, the Hornady Black 350 Legend utilizes a jacketed hollow point (JHP) bullet, designed for controlled expansion and reliable stopping power on game. While the exact specifications may vary slightly depending on the grain weight (e.g., 150 grain, 180 grain), Hornady Black consistently delivers impressive muzzle velocity and energy. This translates to flatter trajectories and greater effective range compared to some other 350 Legend loads.
The JHP bullet design is particularly effective for hunting applications. The controlled expansion ensures consistent penetration and energy transfer, leading to a quick, clean kill. This is crucial for ethical hunting practices, minimizing suffering for the animal.
Accuracy Testing: Real-World Results
While individual experiences may vary, several independent tests and user reviews demonstrate the exceptional accuracy of Hornady Black 350 Legend. Many shooters report sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy at reasonable ranges, with consistent grouping even when using various firearms. This high level of accuracy is critical both for hunting where precise shot placement is essential, and for target shooting where accuracy is paramount.
Practical Applications: Hunting and Target Shooting
The versatility of the 350 Legend, coupled with the performance of Hornady Black, makes it suitable for a range of applications.
Hunting with Hornady Black 350 Legend:
- Deer Hunting: The 350 Legend, particularly with Hornady Black ammunition, is a potent round for whitetail deer and other medium-sized game. Its flatter trajectory and higher energy compared to some smaller calibers extend its effective range.
- Hog Hunting: The stopping power of the Hornady Black JHP makes it an excellent choice for hog hunting, where rapid incapacitation is vital.
- Close-Range Applications: While effective at longer ranges, the 350 Legend with Hornady Black ammunition is perfectly suited for close-range hunting situations common in wooded areas.
Target Shooting:
The Hornady Black 350 Legend also serves well in target practice. Its consistent accuracy and manageable recoil make it an enjoyable round for honing shooting skills.
Hornady Black 350 Legend vs. Competitors:
While many ammunition manufacturers produce 350 Legend, Hornady Black often stands out due to its reputation for precision and consistent performance. Direct comparisons with other brands often reveal Hornady Black's superior accuracy and energy transfer. However, individual preferences and specific needs may influence ammunition choices. It is important to test different brands and grain weights to determine what works best for your firearm and intended use.
Conclusion: A Top-Tier Choice for the 350 Legend
The Hornady Black 350 Legend is a high-performing round offering impressive accuracy, consistent energy transfer, and reliable stopping power. Whether you're a hunter pursuing medium-sized game or a target shooter aiming for precision, Hornady Black delivers a top-tier option within the 350 Legend cartridge family. Its suitability for various applications, combined with Hornady's reputation for quality, makes it a strong contender for your ammunition selection. Remember to always consult your firearm's manual for recommended ammunition and follow safe handling practices.
