Choosing the right cartridge for hunting, target shooting, or self-defense is a crucial decision. This detailed comparison dives deep into the 350 Legend and the .45-70 Government, exploring their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed choice. We'll examine ballistics, recoil, applications, and overall cost to provide a complete picture.
Ballistics: Power and Performance
The .45-70 Government is a significantly more powerful cartridge than the 350 Legend. Its larger diameter bullet and heavier powder charge deliver substantially higher energy and penetration. This makes the .45-70 ideal for large game hunting, where stopping power is paramount. The 350 Legend, while packing a powerful punch for its size, is better suited for deer-sized game and offers less recoil, making it a more manageable option for many shooters.
Key Ballistic Differences:
| Feature | 350 Legend | .45-70 Government |
|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .357" | .458" |
| Bullet Weight | Typically 150-180 grains | Typically 300-500 grains |
| Muzzle Velocity | ~2200-2400 fps | ~1800-2200 fps (varies greatly by load) |
| Muzzle Energy | ~1700-2200 ft-lbs | ~2000-3500+ ft-lbs (varies greatly by load) |
| Recoil | Moderate | Substantial |
Recoil: Managing the Kick
The substantial difference in power translates directly to recoil. The .45-70 Government delivers a powerful, noticeable recoil that can be tiring for extended shooting sessions. This makes it crucial to choose a rifle with appropriate weight and features to mitigate the recoil. The 350 Legend, on the other hand, produces significantly less recoil, making it more comfortable for practice and extended shooting. This is a considerable advantage for newer shooters or those who find substantial recoil challenging.
Applications: Finding the Right Role
The ideal application for each cartridge varies greatly:
350 Legend Applications:
- Deer hunting: A highly effective cartridge for deer-sized game within reasonable ranges. Its relatively flat trajectory and manageable recoil make it suitable for various hunting situations.
- Self-defense (with proper legal considerations): While not as powerful as some other options, the 350 Legend offers a reasonable balance of power and recoil for home defense. (Consult local laws and regulations before using any firearm for self-defense.)
- Target shooting: Its moderate recoil and availability of various ammunition types make it suitable for recreational target shooting.
.45-70 Government Applications:
- Large game hunting: Excellent for hunting large game such as bear, elk, and moose, particularly at closer ranges where its stopping power is maximized.
- Dangerous game hunting (with expert training): While requiring advanced training and consideration, it can be effective against dangerous game.
- Cowboy Action Shooting: A popular choice in this shooting sport.
Cost: Ammunition and Equipment
Ammunition for the 350 Legend is generally more readily available and less expensive than .45-70 Government ammunition. The cost difference can be substantial, especially when considering the quantity of ammunition used for practice or hunting. Rifles chambered in 350 Legend tend to be more affordable than those in .45-70 Government. However, finding a rifle that suits your needs and budget is essential.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Cartridge
The choice between the 350 Legend and the .45-70 Government depends entirely on your needs and shooting experience. The 350 Legend offers a manageable recoil and suitable power for deer hunting and target shooting, while the .45-70 Government delivers significantly more power at the cost of substantial recoil. Carefully consider your intended use, experience level, and budget before making your decision. Consulting with experienced shooters or firearm professionals can provide valuable insights and help guide your selection process.
