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Does bullet type significantly affect trajectory of .35 Remington?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

The trajectory of a .35 Remington rifle cartridge is influenced by the bullet type, with heavier bullets typically having a flatter trajectory than lighter ones. However, the degree of this influence can vary depending on the specific bullet design and construction. In general, bullets with a higher ballistic coefficient tend to perform better at longer ranges.

Bullet Design and Construction

When it comes to bullet design and construction, the .35 Remington cartridge benefits from bullets with a high sectional density and a streamlined shape. Examples of suitable bullets include the 225-grain Speer Gold Dot and the 200-grain Hornady InterLock. These bullets have a high ballistic coefficient, which enables them to maintain their velocity and retain their accuracy over longer ranges.

Ballistic Coefficient and Trajectory

The ballistic coefficient is a measure of a bullet’s aerodynamic efficiency, with higher values indicating a flatter trajectory. In the case of the .35 Remington, a ballistic coefficient of 0.5 or higher is generally considered suitable for hunting applications. By selecting a bullet with a high ballistic coefficient, such as the 225-grain Nosler Partition, hunters can enjoy a more accurate shot at longer ranges.

Real-World Trajectory Comparison

To illustrate the effect of bullet type on trajectory, consider the following example: a 225-grain Speer Gold Dot bullet fired from a .35 Remington rifle at a 100-yard target will drop approximately 3.5 inches at 300 yards, while a 200-grain Hornady InterLock bullet will drop around 4.5 inches over the same distance. This difference in drop can be significant, especially when hunting at longer ranges.

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