Is the .35 Remington suitable for hunting dangerous game?

Ballistic Characteristics

The .35 Remington is a lever-action rifle cartridge developed in the early 20th century. It has a case length of 2.015 inches, a bullet diameter of 0.358 inches, and a typical bullet weight of 200-220 grains. The cartridge’s muzzle velocity is approximately 2,100 feet per second, resulting in a kinetic energy of around 1,800-2,000 foot-pounds. While this is sufficient for smaller game like deer, it falls short for larger and more formidable prey.

Hunting Practicality

When hunting larger game, a rifle should have a minimum kinetic energy of 2,500 foot-pounds to ensure reliable expansion and penetration. The .35 Remington’s limited energy output means it may not consistently deliver a clean kill, particularly in larger animals. Furthermore, the cartridge’s relatively slow expansion rate can lead to deep penetration, potentially causing unnecessary suffering for the animal.

Comparison to Other Cartridges

For comparison, the .30-06 Springfield and .300 Winchester Magnum have kinetic energies of around 2,900 and 3,300 foot-pounds, respectively. These cartridges are more suitable for hunting larger game, including elk and moose. If you’re looking to hunt dangerous game, consider cartridges with higher energies and better expansion characteristics, such as the .338 Winchester Magnum or .375 H&H Magnum.