The .350 Legend cartridge has quickly gained popularity among hunters and shooters for its versatility and performance. A key decision when choosing a .350 Legend firearm is the barrel length. This article will delve into the differences between 16-inch and 20-inch barrels for the .350 Legend, exploring their respective advantages and disadvantages to help you make an informed decision. We'll examine factors like velocity, accuracy, recoil, and overall suitability for various hunting applications.
Understanding Barrel Length's Impact on .350 Legend Performance
The length of a firearm's barrel significantly affects several key performance aspects. A longer barrel generally allows for more complete powder burn, resulting in higher muzzle velocity. However, longer barrels often mean increased weight and length, potentially affecting maneuverability and ease of handling.
Muzzle Velocity: The Key Difference
One of the most significant differences between a 16-inch and a 20-inch barrel in a .350 Legend is muzzle velocity. The longer 20-inch barrel provides a noticeable increase in velocity, translating to flatter trajectory and increased downrange energy. This is crucial for longer-range shots where maintaining accuracy and sufficient stopping power is essential. While specific figures vary depending on ammunition used, expect a difference of 100-200 fps (feet per second) or more. This velocity difference directly impacts effective range and accuracy.
Example: A 16-inch barrel might produce a muzzle velocity of around 2200 fps with a specific load, whereas a 20-inch barrel could reach 2400 fps with the same ammunition.
Accuracy: A Subtle but Important Consideration
While velocity plays a significant role, accuracy is also influenced by barrel length. A longer barrel generally offers the potential for improved accuracy due to the more complete powder burn and stabilized bullet trajectory. However, this doesn't automatically mean a 20-inch barrel guarantees superior accuracy; other factors such as ammunition quality, sight alignment, and shooter skill also play vital roles. In practice, the difference in accuracy between a well-made 16-inch and a 20-inch barrel may be marginal for many shooters at hunting distances.
Recoil: A Matter of Comfort and Control
Longer barrels tend to have slightly less felt recoil than shorter barrels, due to the longer time the expanding gases push against the bullet. This is because the pressure is dispersed over a longer period and this can lead to a smoother shooting experience and better follow-up shot capabilities. However, the difference in recoil between a 16-inch and a 20-inch .350 Legend is generally relatively small and may not be a significant factor for most shooters.
16-Inch Barrel: Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Maneuverability: Shorter and lighter, making it easier to handle in tight quarters and ideal for brush hunting.
- Weight: Reduced weight can improve comfort during extended hunting sessions.
- Portability: Easier to transport and store.
Disadvantages:
- Lower Muzzle Velocity: Results in a shorter effective range and less downrange energy.
- Potentially Reduced Accuracy (Marginal): May offer slightly less accuracy compared to longer barrels, although this is often negligible for hunting purposes.
20-Inch Barrel: Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Higher Muzzle Velocity: Leads to flatter trajectory, increased range, and greater downrange energy.
- Potentially Improved Accuracy (Marginal): Offers the potential for slightly improved accuracy, although this depends on several factors.
- Reduced Recoil (Slight): Can feel marginally softer-shooting than a 16-inch barrel.
Disadvantages:
- Reduced Maneuverability: Longer and heavier, making it slightly less nimble in tight spaces.
- Increased Weight: Can become cumbersome during extended hunts.
- Reduced Portability: More difficult to transport and store.
Choosing the Right Barrel Length for Your Needs
The optimal barrel length depends entirely on your intended use.
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For hunters who prioritize maneuverability and lighter weight in close-quarters hunting situations, a 16-inch barrel is a great choice. This is particularly relevant in thick brush or wooded areas.
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For hunters who require maximum range and penetration for longer shots in open fields or where ethical shot placement is paramount, a 20-inch barrel provides a significant advantage.
Ultimately, handling the rifles is the best way to determine what barrel length suits your needs. Consider factors such as your hunting style, typical shooting distances, and personal preferences. Test firing both barrel lengths, if possible, can provide valuable insights into the subtle differences in recoil, accuracy and overall handling. Remember that ammunition choice also plays a crucial role in overall performance.