The Weatherby Vanguard has long held a respected position in the hunting rifle market, known for its blend of accuracy, reliability, and affordability. With the introduction of the 350 Legend cartridge, a potent round designed for shorter-range hunting and self-defense, the question arises: how does the Weatherby Vanguard 350 Legend perform? This in-depth review will explore its features, handling, accuracy, and overall value proposition to provide a comprehensive assessment.
First Impressions: Build Quality and Aesthetics
Upon initial inspection, the Weatherby Vanguard 350 Legend showcases Weatherby's commitment to quality. The receiver is robust, exhibiting a smooth finish, and the overall fit and feel are impressive for a rifle in its price range. The stock, typically a synthetic material, is well-designed, offering a comfortable grip and good ergonomics. While some might prefer a more high-end wood stock, the synthetic option offers superior durability and weather resistance, crucial for hunting in various conditions. The weight is manageable, making it suitable for extended periods of carrying in the field.
Performance on the Range: Accuracy and Recoil
The 350 Legend cartridge is designed for accuracy at shorter ranges, and the Vanguard delivers on this promise. Testing with various factory loads revealed consistently tight groups at 100 yards. The manageable recoil makes follow-up shots easier, which is a significant advantage in hunting situations. While not a benchrest rifle, the Vanguard 350 Legend’s accuracy is more than sufficient for its intended purpose. The smooth action ensures consistent and reliable feeding and ejection.
Factors Influencing Accuracy:
- Ammunition Selection: Experimenting with different ammunition brands and bullet weights is crucial to find the optimal load for your specific rifle.
- Shooting Technique: Proper shooting form significantly impacts accuracy. Consistent and controlled breathing, a proper cheek weld, and a firm grip are essential.
- Barrel Break-in: New barrels generally require a break-in period of around 50-100 rounds to achieve optimal accuracy.
Hunting Applications: The 350 Legend's Role
The 350 Legend shines in its intended role: hunting deer-sized game at moderate ranges. Its flat trajectory and powerful stopping power make it ideal for brushy terrain where longer shots are less common. The manageable recoil allows for quick follow-up shots, critical for ethical hunting practices. Its relatively low noise compared to larger calibers is also a plus, minimizing disturbance to surrounding wildlife.
Value for Money: Comparing to Competitors
The Weatherby Vanguard 350 Legend offers a compelling value proposition. Compared to some higher-priced hunting rifles, it delivers comparable accuracy and reliability at a more affordable price point. While other manufacturers offer rifles in the 350 Legend chambering, the Vanguard stands out due to its robust build quality, consistent accuracy, and Weatherby's reputation for dependability.
Overall Assessment: A Solid Choice for Hunters
The Weatherby Vanguard 350 Legend is a well-rounded hunting rifle that excels in its intended niche. Its accuracy, manageable recoil, and robust build quality combine to offer a reliable and enjoyable shooting experience. While not a feature-laden, top-tier rifle, it represents excellent value for its price and is a solid choice for hunters seeking a dependable firearm for shorter-range hunting of deer-sized game. The 350 Legend cartridge is growing in popularity, and the Vanguard offers a versatile platform to utilize this effective round.
