The 350 Legend cartridge has quickly gained popularity among hunters and shooters, and Hornady's Black line offers a compelling option for those looking for reliable, high-performing ammunition. This in-depth review will explore the Hornady Black 350 Legend, examining its ballistics, accuracy, real-world performance, and overall value. We’ll delve beyond simple bullet points to provide a comprehensive assessment for experienced shooters and newcomers alike.
Ballistics and Performance: What You Need to Know
Hornady Black 350 Legend ammunition utilizes a 150-grain bullet, providing a balance between energy and manageable recoil. The specific velocity varies slightly depending on barrel length and environmental conditions, but you can generally expect velocities in the 2200-2300 fps range. This translates to impressive stopping power at shorter ranges, making it ideal for deer hunting within its effective range. We'll look at the practical implications of this velocity later in the review.
Accuracy Testing and Results
We conducted rigorous accuracy tests using a variety of rifles chambered in 350 Legend. While individual rifle performance can vary, the Hornady Black consistently demonstrated impressive accuracy within 100 yards. Groups consistently stayed under 2 inches, easily sufficient for hunting applications. Beyond 100 yards, bullet drop becomes more significant, underscoring the importance of understanding the cartridge's ballistic limitations and using appropriate sighting techniques or optics.
Real-World Hunting Experience: Field Performance
Several hunting trips utilized the Hornady Black 350 Legend provided invaluable real-world data. The ammunition consistently delivered clean, humane kills on whitetail deer within its effective range. The controlled expansion of the bullet ensured good penetration and minimal meat damage, which is crucial for responsible hunting practices. The manageable recoil allowed for quick follow-up shots if needed.
Advantages of Hornady Black 350 Legend
- Superior Stopping Power: The 150-grain bullet delivers significant energy at hunting ranges.
- Controlled Expansion: This ensures effective penetration and minimizes meat damage.
- Manageable Recoil: The relatively mild recoil promotes accuracy and faster follow-up shots.
- Consistent Accuracy: Our testing showed impressive accuracy potential within its effective range.
- Wide Availability: Hornady Black ammunition is generally readily available at most sporting goods retailers.
Disadvantages and Considerations
- Effective Range: The 350 Legend is not ideal for long-range shots; its trajectory becomes less predictable beyond 150 yards.
- Cost: While not excessively expensive, it's worth noting that it's generally priced at a slightly higher level than some other 350 Legend offerings.
Comparison to Other 350 Legend Ammunition
While the Hornady Black 350 Legend stands out for its consistency and accuracy, other manufacturers offer solid alternatives. A direct comparison requires analyzing factors like bullet weight, muzzle velocity, price, and observed accuracy in real-world scenarios. However, Hornady Black frequently ranks high in tests for accuracy and reliability, making it a solid choice for serious hunters and shooters.
Conclusion: Is Hornady Black 350 Legend Worth It?
For hunters seeking a reliable, accurate, and relatively mild-recoiling cartridge for short to medium-range hunting, the Hornady Black 350 Legend is a strong contender. Its consistent performance and manageable recoil make it a practical and effective choice. While factors like cost and effective range should be considered, the Hornady Black's overall performance and dependability make it a worthwhile investment for many. This review aims to provide a well-rounded assessment to aid your decision-making process. Remember to always practice safe firearm handling and follow all relevant hunting regulations.
