360 Buckhammer vs. 350 Legend: Which Straight-Walled Cartridge Reigns Supreme?
The rise of straight-walled cartridges for hunting has been nothing short of revolutionary, especially in states previously restricted to shotgun-only deer hunting. Among the frontrunners in this arena are the 360 Buckhammer and the 350 Legend. Both promise improved range and accuracy compared to shotguns, but the question remains: which cartridge is the better choice for you? This comprehensive guide dives deep into the 360 Buckhammer vs. 350 Legend debate, exploring their ballistics, performance, rifle availability, and overall suitability for various hunting scenarios. Our aim is to provide you with the definitive information needed to make an informed decision, drawing upon expert insights and practical considerations to help you choose the cartridge that best fits your needs.
Understanding the 360 Buckhammer and 350 Legend
To truly appreciate the nuances of the 360 Buckhammer vs. 350 Legend, we must first understand what each cartridge brings to the table. Both were designed to meet the straight-walled cartridge requirements in specific states, but they achieve this goal through different approaches.
The 360 Buckhammer: A Modern Take on a Classic
The 360 Buckhammer, developed by Remington, is essentially a modernized version of the .35 Remington. It utilizes a .358-inch diameter bullet, a size commonly found in other popular cartridges. The cartridge is designed to function reliably in AR-15 platforms with modifications to the bolt and magazine. It offers a heavier bullet weight than the 350 Legend, potentially offering better penetration on larger game.
The 350 Legend: Lightweight and High-Velocity
The 350 Legend, developed by Winchester, is designed to be a low-recoil, high-velocity option. It uses a .357-inch diameter bullet, making it compatible with some existing .357 Magnum reloading components. Its primary advantage lies in its lightweight bullets and relatively flat trajectory, making it a good choice for deer hunting at moderate ranges.
Core Differences at a Glance
The key differences between the 360 Buckhammer and 350 Legend lie in their bullet diameter, bullet weight, and overall cartridge design. The Buckhammer favors heavier bullets and a more traditional approach, while the Legend prioritizes lightweight projectiles and higher velocities. This leads to variations in recoil, trajectory, and terminal performance, which we will explore in detail.
Ballistic Performance: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Ballistics are crucial when comparing cartridges. Let’s examine how the 360 Buckhammer and 350 Legend stack up in terms of velocity, energy, and trajectory.
Velocity and Energy
The 350 Legend generally boasts higher velocities, particularly with lighter bullets. This translates to a flatter trajectory at shorter ranges. However, the 360 Buckhammer, with its heavier bullets, often retains more energy downrange. This can be a significant advantage when hunting larger game or when longer shots are necessary.
Trajectory
The 350 Legend’s flatter trajectory makes it easier to aim at various distances, especially within 200 yards. The 360 Buckhammer’s trajectory is more curved, requiring more precise range estimation and holdover. However, with proper practice and a ballistic scope, this difference can be mitigated.
Recoil
Recoil is a critical factor, especially for new or recoil-sensitive shooters. The 350 Legend generally produces less recoil than the 360 Buckhammer due to its lighter bullets and lower overall pressure. This makes it more comfortable to shoot and can improve accuracy, especially during rapid follow-up shots.
Ballistic Charts and Data
To illustrate these differences, consider the following comparison based on common factory loads:
- 350 Legend (150-grain): Muzzle Velocity: ~2325 fps, Muzzle Energy: ~1800 ft-lbs
- 360 Buckhammer (180-grain): Muzzle Velocity: ~2200 fps, Muzzle Energy: ~1935 ft-lbs
Note: These figures are approximate and can vary depending on the specific load and rifle used.
Rifle Availability and Platform Considerations
The availability of rifles chambered in each cartridge is a crucial factor. The 350 Legend has a significant advantage in this area, with a wider range of rifles available from various manufacturers. The 360 Buckhammer, being newer, has fewer options, but this is expected to change as its popularity grows.
AR-15 Compatibility
Both cartridges can be chambered in AR-15 platforms. However, the 360 Buckhammer requires more significant modifications to the bolt and magazine than the 350 Legend. This can affect reliability and cost. The 350 Legend is often a more straightforward conversion for existing AR-15 owners.
Bolt-Action Rifles
Both cartridges are available in bolt-action rifles. These platforms generally offer better accuracy potential than AR-15s due to their more rigid construction and free-floating barrels. The 350 Legend has a wider selection of bolt-action rifles available.
Single-Shot Rifles
Single-shot rifles are another option for both cartridges. These rifles are often more affordable and can be very accurate. They are a good choice for hunters who prioritize accuracy and simplicity over rapid follow-up shots.
Hunting Applications: Which Cartridge Excels?
The ideal hunting application for each cartridge depends on several factors, including the size of the game, the distance of the shots, and the hunter’s preferences.
Deer Hunting
Both the 360 Buckhammer and 350 Legend are well-suited for deer hunting within their effective ranges. The 350 Legend’s flatter trajectory makes it easier to aim at varying distances, while the 360 Buckhammer’s heavier bullets may offer better penetration on larger deer.
Hog Hunting
For hog hunting, the 360 Buckhammer may have a slight edge due to its heavier bullets and potentially better penetration. Hogs are notoriously tough animals, and the extra penetration can be crucial for ethical kills. However, the 350 Legend is still a viable option, especially with premium bullets designed for deep penetration.
Small Game Hunting
Neither the 360 Buckhammer nor the 350 Legend are ideal for small game hunting. Their power and range are excessive for most small game animals. Smaller cartridges like the .22 LR or .17 HMR are much better suited for this purpose.
Ammunition Availability and Cost
Ammunition availability and cost are important considerations. The 350 Legend generally has better availability and lower prices than the 360 Buckhammer. This is due to its longer time on the market and wider adoption.
Reloading Considerations
Reloading can significantly reduce ammunition costs and allows for greater customization of loads. The 350 Legend is easier to reload due to its compatibility with some existing .357 Magnum reloading components. The 360 Buckhammer requires specific .358-inch diameter bullets, which may be less readily available.
Practical Field Performance: Expert Perspectives
Let’s consider some practical aspects based on field experience with both cartridges. While individual results vary, some trends emerge.
Accuracy
Both cartridges are capable of excellent accuracy in well-built rifles. Groups of 1 MOA (Minute of Angle) or less are achievable with proper load development and shooting technique. The 350 Legend may be slightly easier to shoot accurately due to its lower recoil.
Terminal Ballistics
Terminal ballistics, or how the bullet performs upon impact, are crucial for ethical kills. Both cartridges can deliver adequate terminal performance on deer and hogs with proper bullet selection. Expanding bullets are generally recommended for deer, while tougher, controlled-expansion bullets are better suited for hogs.
Real-World Scenarios
Consider a hunter in the Midwest who primarily hunts deer in wooded areas with shots typically under 150 yards. The 350 Legend’s flatter trajectory and lower recoil would be advantageous in this scenario. Now, consider a hunter in Texas who hunts hogs in open fields with shots potentially exceeding 200 yards. The 360 Buckhammer’s heavier bullets and higher energy retention would be more beneficial.
Advantages, Benefits, and Value Proposition
Both the 360 Buckhammer and 350 Legend offer distinct advantages and benefits. Understanding these can help you determine which cartridge aligns best with your needs.
360 Buckhammer: Power and Penetration
The 360 Buckhammer’s primary advantage is its heavier bullets, which can provide better penetration on larger game. Its higher energy retention at longer ranges also makes it a viable option for shots beyond 200 yards. Users consistently report excellent results on hogs and deer with properly selected bullets.
350 Legend: Flat Trajectory and Low Recoil
The 350 Legend’s flatter trajectory and lower recoil make it easier to shoot accurately, especially for new or recoil-sensitive shooters. Its wider availability and lower cost also make it a more accessible option for many hunters. Our analysis reveals that the 350 Legend is particularly well-suited for deer hunting in areas with moderate ranges.
In-Depth Review: Evaluating Performance and Usability
Let’s delve into a comprehensive review, evaluating the performance and usability of both cartridges based on simulated testing and expert analysis.
User Experience
The 350 Legend generally offers a more pleasant shooting experience due to its lower recoil. This can lead to improved accuracy and confidence, especially for new shooters. The 360 Buckhammer’s recoil is more noticeable, but manageable with proper technique and a well-fitted rifle.
Performance on Game
Both cartridges are capable of ethical kills on deer and hogs with proper bullet selection and shot placement. The 360 Buckhammer’s heavier bullets may offer a slight advantage on larger game or at longer ranges. However, the 350 Legend’s higher velocity can also be effective, especially with expanding bullets designed for rapid energy transfer.
Pros of the 360 Buckhammer:
- Heavier Bullets: Offers better penetration on larger game.
- Higher Energy Retention: Maintains more energy at longer ranges.
- Modernized Classic: A familiar design with modern performance.
- AR-15 Compatibility: Can be chambered in AR-15 platforms.
- Effective on Hogs: Well-suited for hog hunting due to its penetration.
Cons/Limitations of the 360 Buckhammer:
- Higher Recoil: More noticeable recoil compared to the 350 Legend.
- Lower Availability: Fewer rifles and ammunition options currently available.
- More Complex AR-15 Conversion: Requires more significant modifications to AR-15 platforms.
- Trajectory: More curved trajectory requires more precise range estimation.
Pros of the 350 Legend:
- Flatter Trajectory: Easier to aim at varying distances.
- Lower Recoil: More comfortable to shoot, especially for new shooters.
- Wider Availability: More rifles and ammunition options available.
- Easier AR-15 Conversion: Simpler modifications for AR-15 platforms.
- Lower Cost: Generally more affordable than the 360 Buckhammer.
Cons/Limitations of the 350 Legend:
- Lighter Bullets: May lack penetration on larger game at longer ranges.
- Lower Energy Retention: Loses energy more quickly at longer ranges.
- Wind Drift: Lighter bullets are more susceptible to wind drift.
- Not Ideal for Large Hogs: May not be the best choice for very large or tough hogs.
Ideal User Profile
The 360 Buckhammer is best suited for hunters who prioritize penetration and energy retention, particularly when hunting larger game like hogs or deer at longer ranges. The 350 Legend is ideal for hunters who prioritize low recoil, flat trajectory, and affordability, especially when hunting deer at moderate ranges.
Key Alternatives
Alternatives to the 360 Buckhammer and 350 Legend include the .450 Bushmaster and the .44 Magnum. The .450 Bushmaster offers even more power and penetration than the 360 Buckhammer, while the .44 Magnum is a versatile cartridge that can be used in both rifles and handguns.
Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation
In conclusion, both the 360 Buckhammer and 350 Legend are capable cartridges with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between them depends on your specific hunting needs and preferences. If you prioritize power and penetration, the 360 Buckhammer is the better choice. If you prioritize low recoil, flat trajectory, and affordability, the 350 Legend is the better option. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try both cartridges and see which one you prefer.
Making the Right Choice for Your Hunting Needs
The decision between the 360 Buckhammer and 350 Legend ultimately rests on your individual hunting style, the game you pursue, and your personal preferences. Both cartridges offer significant improvements over traditional shotgun slugs, providing increased range and accuracy. Carefully consider the factors outlined in this guide to make an informed choice. Share your experiences with these cartridges in the comments below and contribute to the collective knowledge of the hunting community.
