Quick Answer
The .450 Bushmaster and .450 Marlin are similar cartridges suitable for deer hunting, but the .450 Bushmaster has a slightly longer effective range and more versatility due to its straight-walled design, which allows it to function reliably in most rifles without the need for a chamber throat expander.
Ballistic Performance
The .450 Bushmaster and .450 Marlin both offer impressive kinetic energy, but the .450 Bushmaster’s slightly longer effective range and flatter trajectory make it a better choice for medium- to long-range shots. The .450 Bushmaster typically has a muzzle velocity of around 2,000-2,100 feet per second and a maximum effective range of around 200-250 yards. In contrast, the .450 Marlin has a muzzle velocity of around 1,900-2,000 feet per second and a maximum effective range of around 150-180 yards.
Rifle Compatibility and Reliability
One of the key advantages of the .450 Bushmaster is its ability to function reliably in a wide range of rifles, including those with chamber throats that are not specifically designed for the .450 Marlin. This is due to the .450 Bushmaster’s straight-walled design, which allows it to be chambered in rifles without the need for a chamber throat expander. This makes the .450 Bushmaster a more versatile choice for deer hunters who may not have access to a specific rifle chambered in .450 Marlin.
Hunting Practicality
When it comes to hunting deer, both cartridges are effective at close to medium ranges. However, the .450 Bushmaster’s longer effective range and flatter trajectory make it a better choice for hunters who must take shots at longer distances. Additionally, the .450 Bushmaster’s straight-walled design makes it a more reliable choice for hunters who may not have the opportunity to reload in the field.
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