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Q&A · Hunting

What factors influence the choice of .350 Legend for deer?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

The choice of .350 Legend for deer hunting is influenced by factors such as the cartridge's flat trajectory, high kinetic energy, and relatively low recoil. Additionally, its ability to penetrate deep into the animal's vital organs makes it a popular choice for deer hunters. The cartridge's effectiveness is also dependent on the deer's size and the distance to the target.

Ballistics and Performance

The .350 Legend has a flat trajectory, making it ideal for hunting deer at medium to long ranges. Its high kinetic energy of 1,200 ft-lbs at the muzzle ensures a clean and humane kill. At 100 yards, the bullet’s kinetic energy still remains at 740 ft-lbs, making it a reliable choice for deer hunting. The cartridge’s relatively low recoil of 25 ft-lbs makes it manageable for most hunters.

Deer Size and Distance Considerations

The effectiveness of the .350 Legend is also dependent on the deer’s size and the distance to the target. For smaller deer, the cartridge’s high kinetic energy ensures a quick kill, even at longer ranges. However, for larger deer, a closer shot is recommended to ensure a clean kill. At 200 yards, the bullet’s kinetic energy drops to 370 ft-lbs, making it less effective for larger deer.

Gun and Ammunition Selection

When selecting a gun and ammunition for .350 Legend deer hunting, it’s essential to choose a rifle with a 1:12 twist rate to stabilize the bullet. A 150-grain or 180-grain bullet is recommended for deer hunting, as it provides the right balance between kinetic energy and expansion. When choosing a scope, a 3-9x or 4-12x magnification range is ideal for deer hunting at medium to long ranges.

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