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Performance of .35 Remington in dense woodlands — is it worth it?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

The .35 Remington is a suitable choice for dense woodlands, offering a balance of power and control, but its performance can be affected by factors like bullet weight and rifle weight.

Lever Gun Capabilities

The .35 Remington is a versatile cartridge designed for lever-action rifles, capable of delivering moderate velocities and decent energy transfer. When paired with a lightweight rifle (around 7 pounds) and a 200-grain bullet, it can reach muzzle velocities of approximately 2,300 feet per second, generating about 2,400 foot-pounds of energy. This is sufficient for taking down deer-sized game at close to medium ranges.

Woodland Hunting Considerations

In dense woodlands, the .35 Remington’s manageable recoil and decent penetration make it a suitable choice for hunting larger game. However, it’s essential to consider factors like the type of terrain, the animal’s size and species, and the available shot opportunities. For example, a 250-grain bullet may be a better choice for larger game or longer shots, but it can compromise the rifle’s handling and velocity.

Ballistic Optimization

To maximize the .35 Remington’s performance in dense woodlands, it’s crucial to optimize the rifle’s ballistics. This can be achieved by selecting the right bullet weight and type, as well as experimenting with different powder loads. For instance, a 220-grain bullet with a ballistic coefficient of 0.5 can offer a flatter trajectory and better range performance compared to a 200-grain bullet. Additionally, using a scope with a variable magnification (3-9x or 4-12x) can help hunters make precise shots in tight spaces.

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