Quick Answer
The .35 Whelen cartridge was introduced in 1924 by John T. West, a well-known hunter, and was named after his friend, John E. Whelen. It was specifically designed to fill the gap between the .30-06 Springfield and the .40-82 WCF, offering a balance between power and recoil. The cartridge is known for its effectiveness on large game like elk.
Origins of the .35 Whelen
The .35 Whelen was developed from the .30-06 Springfield case, which was stretched to accommodate a .358-inch diameter bullet. This resulted in a cartridge that was capable of delivering a significant amount of energy, particularly at longer ranges. The cartridge was initially loaded with a 180-grain bullet and a charge of 42.5 grains of smokeless powder, resulting in a muzzle velocity of approximately 2,800 feet per second.
Performance Characteristics
The .35 Whelen has proven to be a reliable and effective cartridge for hunting large game, particularly elk. It is capable of delivering a significant amount of kinetic energy, with a typical 200-grain bullet reaching speeds of up to 2,400 feet per second. This results in a kinetic energy of approximately 2,700 foot-pounds, making it well-suited for taking down large game quickly and humanely. When reloading, it’s essential to maintain a consistent powder charge to achieve optimal performance. A typical load might include a 200-grain bullet and 46 grains of powder, resulting in a muzzle velocity of approximately 2,400 feet per second.
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