Quick Answer
The .35 Remington lever guns perform better at longer ranges and with heavier bullets, but the .30-30 Winchester is more versatile and accurate at closer ranges.
Range and Accuracy
When it comes to range and accuracy, the .35 Remington lever guns have a slight edge over the .30-30 Winchester. The .35 Remington has a flatter trajectory, making it more effective at longer ranges. For example, a 200-grain .35 Remington bullet will drop only about 12 inches at 300 yards, while a 170-grain .30-30 Winchester bullet will drop about 20 inches at the same range. This makes the .35 Remington a better choice for hunting larger game at longer ranges.
Recoil and Handling
However, the .30-30 Winchester has less recoil and is generally easier to handle, making it a better choice for younger or less experienced shooters. The .35 Remington has a slightly higher recoil impulse, which can be uncomfortable for some shooters. Additionally, the .30-30 Winchester is often chambered in shorter barrels, which can make it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
Ballistics and Performance
The .35 Remington is a more powerful cartridge, with a higher muzzle energy and a longer effective range. The .35 Remington typically has a muzzle energy of around 2,000 ft-lbs, while the .30-30 Winchester typically has a muzzle energy of around 1,700 ft-lbs. This makes the .35 Remington better suited for hunting larger game, such as deer and elk. However, the .30-30 Winchester is still a highly effective cartridge for hunting smaller game, such as hogs and varmints.
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