Understanding the .350 Legend Cartridge
The .350 Legend is a straight-walled cartridge designed primarily for deer hunting in states that restrict the use of bottleneck cartridges. It is known for its powerful performance and ability to deliver consistent accuracy at various ranges.
Specifications
- Case Length: 1.71 inches
- Bullet Diameter: 0.357 inches
- Overall Length: 2.26 inches
- Typical Bullet Weights: 150 to 180 grains
- Max SAAMI Pressure: 55,000 psi
The design of the .350 Legend provides a flatter trajectory than many traditional straight-walled cartridges, making it effective for longer shots while still being compliant with hunting laws in many regions.
Essential Reloading Equipment
To successfully reload the .350 Legend, you need a selection of essential equipment. Each item plays a crucial role in ensuring safety and precision.
Basic Reloading Tools
1. Reloading Press: A single-stage or progressive press can be used, depending on your reloading volume. Single-stage presses are great for beginners, while progressive presses are efficient for high-volume reloaders.
2. Dies: You need a set of .350 Legend reloading dies, including a sizing die and a bullet seating die.
3. Shell Holder: A shell holder specific to the .350 Legend is required to hold the case in place during resizing and loading.
4. Powder Scale: A reliable scale is essential for measuring powder charges accurately.
5. Powder Measure: This tool helps dispense consistent powder charges quickly.
6. Calipers: To measure case length and overall cartridge length, calipers ensure consistency and accuracy.
7. Case Trimmer: If you’re using once-fired brass, a case trimmer may be necessary to ensure all cases are uniform in length.
8. Depriming Tool: A tool to remove spent primers from used brass.
9. Primer Pocket Cleaner: This tool is useful for cleaning the primer pockets to ensure proper seating of new primers.
10. Loading Manual: A reputable reloading manual containing .350 Legend data is crucial for safe and effective reloading.
Components for Reloading .350 Legend
Reloading the .350 Legend involves several key components: brass cases, primers, powder, and bullets. Each component must be chosen carefully to achieve the desired performance.
Brass Cases
Brass can be purchased new or reused from fired ammunition. Common manufacturers of .350 Legend brass include Winchester and Starline.
- New Brass: Offers consistency and reliability.
- Used Brass: Should be inspected for signs of wear or damage. Normalize the length and check for any splits or cracks.
Primers
For the .350 Legend, small rifle primers are typically used. Reloaders may choose from various manufacturers, including CCI, Federal, or Winchester.
- Types: Standard and magnum primers can affect the performance, so choose based on the powder used and bullet weight.
Powder
Selecting the correct powder is critical for achieving optimal performance. Some popular powders for the .350 Legend include:
- Hogdon CFE BLK
- Alliant AR-Comp
- Winchester 296
- Hogdon H110
Each powder has unique burn rates and characteristics that can influence velocity and accuracy.
Bullets
The choice of bullet can greatly affect terminal performance, accuracy, and recoil. Common bullet weights for the .350 Legend range from 150 to 180 grains.
- Types of Bullets:
- Soft Point (SP): Excellent for hunting due to controlled expansion.
- Hollow Point (HP): Offers rapid expansion and is effective for deer.
- Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): More suited for range use or target shooting.
Load Development Process
Developing loads for the .350 Legend involves a systematic approach to ensure safety and performance.
Steps to Develop Loads
1. Start with a Reliable Manual: Use a reputable reloading manual to find starting loads specific to the components you have chosen.
2. Measure and Prepare Cases: Trim, resize, and clean the brass cases to ensure uniformity.
3. Select a Powder Charge: Choose a starting load based on the manual and the specific powder you’re using.
4. Load Primers: Seat the primers firmly but not excessively to avoid crushing them.
5. Weigh Powder Charges: Use the powder measure and scale to dispense and weigh each powder charge.
6. Seat Bullets: Measure the overall cartridge length (OAL) to ensure it meets specifications.
7. Test Loads: Start with the lowest load and gradually increase in increments, testing for accuracy and pressure signs in each batch.
Tips for Load Testing
- Always wear safety glasses when reloading.
- Keep a detailed log of each load you test, including powder charge, OAL, and performance.
- Use a chronograph to measure velocity, which can help identify pressure signs and performance consistency.
Safety Considerations
Safety is paramount in reloading. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Stay Organized: Keep your reloading area clean and organized to avoid mixing components.
- Avoid Double Charging: Always double-check your powder charges to prevent dangerous overcharges.
- Inspect Loaded Rounds: Before firing, visually inspect rounds for any abnormalities.
- Know Your Firearm: Understand your rifle's specifications and limitations to ensure compatibility with your loads.
Conclusion
The 350 Legend reloading manual serves as a comprehensive guide for reloaders looking to create efficient and effective ammunition. By understanding the specifications of the cartridge, the necessary equipment, and the steps involved in the reloading process, you can achieve optimal performance tailored to your individual shooting needs. Whether you are preparing for a hunting season or simply looking to enhance your shooting experience, mastering the art of reloading the .350 Legend is a rewarding endeavor. Always remember to prioritize safety and take your time through the reloading process to ensure consistency and reliability in your ammunition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best powder to use for reloading 350 Legend cartridges?
Popular powders for reloading 350 Legend include Hodgdon CFE 223, Ramshot TAC, and Winchester 296. Each powder offers different performance characteristics, so it's essential to consult specific load data for accurate results.
What bullet weights are commonly used for reloading 350 Legend?
Common bullet weights for reloading 350 Legend range from 150 grains to 180 grains. The choice of bullet weight can depend on the intended use, such as target shooting or hunting.
Are there any specific safety precautions to take when reloading 350 Legend?
Yes, always follow standard reloading safety practices, including wearing safety glasses, working in a well-ventilated area, and keeping a clean workspace. Additionally, always double-check your measurements and load data to prevent overcharging.
What is the overall length (OAL) for reloaded 350 Legend cartridges?
The recommended overall length (OAL) for 350 Legend cartridges typically ranges from 2.260 to 2.300 inches, but it’s crucial to check specific load data and adjust according to the bullet type and seating depth.
Where can I find a reliable reloading manual for 350 Legend?
Reliable reloading manuals for 350 Legend can be found from manufacturers like Hornady, Nosler, and Lyman, as well as online resources from reputable shooting and reloading forums. Always ensure the data is up-to-date and verified.
