350 Legend vs 454 Casull: Which is Better for Hunting?

Hunting with Firearms
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Introduction

When it comes to choosing the right caliber for your hunting needs, the debate between the .350 Legend and the .454 Casull is often passionate. Both cartridges have their pros and cons, and understanding their differences can help you make an informed decision.

Overview of the Cartridges

.350 Legend

  • Designed for Deer Hunting: The .350 Legend was specifically designed for straight-walled cartridge states, making it a popular choice for deer hunting.
  • Mild Recoil: One of the standout features is its manageable recoil, making it a great option for newer shooters.
  • Ballistic Performance: With a velocity of around 2,300 fps and a range of bullet weights, it offers solid ballistic performance for medium-sized games.

.454 Casull

  • Powerful Option: The .454 Casull is significantly more powerful and is often used for hunting larger game such as bear or moose.
  • Higher Recoil: Be prepared for much heavier recoil, which can be a concern for some shooters.
  • Versatile Use: This cartridge can be fired from revolvers, offering a versatile option for both hunting and personal protection.

Comparing Key Aspects

Recoil

  • The .350 Legend has a reputation for lower recoil, ideal for shooters who may be sensitive to it.
  • Conversely, the .454 Casull delivers a punch that can be tough on the shoulders.

Effective Range

  • .350 Legend: Generally effective up to 200 yards, making it perfect for deer hunting in the woods.
  • .454 Casull: Its effective range can stretch a bit further, but the real magic happens much closer.

Ballistic Capabilities

  • Energy: The .454 Casull packs a serious energy punch, often exceeding 1,800 ft-lbs.
  • Trajectory: The .350 Legend provides a flatter trajectory, making it easier to hit targets at moderate distances.

Hunting Considerations

  • Game Type: If you’re primarily hunting deer, the .350 Legend might be the clearer choice due to its designed purpose. For larger game, the .454 Casull excels.
  • Shooting Experience: Consider your own experience and comfort level when handling recoil and shot accuracy.

Conclusion

Choosing between the .350 Legend and the .454 Casull depends largely on your intended use and comfort level. If you’re looking for a manageable cartridge to tackle deer in wooded environments, the .350 Legend is a solid pick. On the other hand, if you’re targeting larger game and need stopping power, the .454 Casull could be what you’re after.

I’d love to hear your experiences with either of these cartridges! What do you prefer, and why? Any insights or tips for someone deciding between the two?

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The .350 Legend is known for its impressive velocity, around 2,300 fps with a 150-grain bullet. In comparison, the .454 Casull typically clocks in at about 1,900 fps with a similar weight. This difference can influence your choice depending on the type of game you’re hunting.

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Interesting point! The energy of the .454 Casull is significantly higher, often exceeding 1,600 ft-lbs. That power makes it a fantastic choice for larger game like bears and moose, where stopping power is crucial.

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For trajectory, the .350 Legend has a flatter arc up to about 200 yards, making it easier for mid-distance shots. The .454 Casull, while more powerful, has a more pronounced drop at those ranges, which might require more adjustment in your hold.

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That’s a great observation! This makes the .350 a great choice for deer hunters who often shoot at these distances. However, the .454’s knockdown power is hard to overlook for tougher animals.

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I like the .350 Legend for its versatility; it’s a great round for whitetails and can even be used in states with straight-walled cartridge regulations. Anyone have experience using it in the field?

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I’ve used the .350 Legend for deer hunting, and it performed well! The recoil is manageable too, which can be nice for a day of shooting.

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The .454 Casull definitely packs a punch! It can take down pretty much anything, but be ready for the recoil. It isn’t the best option for a newbie, though.

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True! But the sheer joy of shooting it sometimes outweighs the recoil for me. It’s like a thrill ride!

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Energy aside, how do you think these cartridges perform in wind? Since hunting involves outdoor conditions, this could be a big factor too.

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Great question! The .350 Legend, with its higher velocity and flatter trajectory, may perform better in wind. The .454 Casull’s heavier bullet can resist drift but with more drop.

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I think it ultimately boils down to the type of game you’re targeting and the conditions you’ll be hunting in. Both cartridges have their own strengths.

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Absolutely! If I’m heading into bear country, I’m definitely reaching for the .454. But for deer, it’s hard to beat the .350.

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Both rounds sound intriguing! I’m just here to soak in the knowledge. Definitely a lot to think about when choosing.

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It’s true! Like choosing between a sports car and a monster truck—both are fun but serve different purposes!

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In the end, the .350 Legend offers accessibility and ease of use, while the .454 Casull represents high performance. So many factors to consider!

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When considering recoil, the 350 Legend is significantly milder compared to the 454 Casull. It’s a great choice for newer hunters or those sensitive to kick. Personally, I’ve found it easier to shoot accurately under various conditions.

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I agree! The 350 Legend really shines for shooters who are recoil-sensitive, while the 454 can be quite a handful. It’s like comparing a gentle breeze to a strong wind.

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The 454 Casull definitely has more recoil, but for seasoned shooters, it can feel rewarding. If you can manage the kick, it hits harder, which is great for larger game. However, practice is key!

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I’ve shot both cartridges and prefer the 350 Legend for its manageable recoil. It allows for quicker follow-up shots, especially during a hunt when you might need to take multiple shots.

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