Straight-Wall Cartridges: Why They Matter and How .350 Legend Compares to .400 Legend
Justin Hunold
02/27/2025
Understanding Straight-Wall Cartridges
For many hunters, the choice of cartridge isn’t just about ballistics—it’s about legality, effectiveness, and tradition. In recent years, straight-wall cartridges have surged in popularity, especially in the Midwest, where certain states prohibit traditional bottlenecked rifle cartridges. Unlike their bottlenecked counterparts, straight-wall cartridges feature a cylindrical case with no tapering neck, offering a combination of ease of reloading, predictable ballistics, and compliance with hunting laws.
Why Are Straight-Wall Cartridges Popular?
The push for straight-wall cartridges comes largely from legislative efforts to improve safety in densely populated hunting regions. States like Ohio, Iowa, and Michigan have specific regulations mandating the use of straight-wall cartridges for deer hunting. The reasoning? These cartridges generally have a more limited range than high-velocity bottlenecked cartridges, reducing the risk of bullets traveling long distances beyond their intended targets.
However, legality isn’t the only factor. Many hunters have embraced these cartridges for their excellent stopping power and manageable recoil. They hit hard but don't generate the intense recoil that some traditional rifle rounds do, making them an appealing option for youth hunters and those who prioritize accuracy over raw power.
Popular straight-wall options include:
- .45-70 Government – A legendary cartridge with a history dating back to the 1800s. While old, it still remains a favorite among hunters pursuing large game.
- .450 Bushmaster – A modern powerhouse that delivers devastating energy at close to medium range.
- .350 Legend – A highly efficient, low-recoil option designed for deer hunting.
- .400 Legend – The newest contender, boasting increased stopping power over the .350 Legend.
Other Notable Cartridges
Several other cartridges contribute significantly to the popularity of straight wall options. The 444 Marlin is similar to the .45-70 but offers a bit more speed, making it a choice for those seeking flatter trajectories.
The .50 Beowulf packs substantial power and is best used for close-range hunts due to its strong impact and energy transfer. The 360 Buckhammer and new 400 Legend are gaining attention, with each cartridge offering unique advantages for different hunting scenarios.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Straight-Wall Cartridges
Advantages:
- Legal Compliance – Meets hunting regulations in many states that ban bottlenecked cartridges.
- Moderate Recoil – Easier on the shooter compared to traditional rifle rounds.
- Adequate Stopping Power – Well-suited for medium to large game, especially deer and black bear.
- Ease of Reloading – Their simpler shape makes them more user-friendly for handloaders.
Disadvantages:
- Limited Range – Generally effective out to 200–250 yards, making them less useful for open-country hunting.
- Less Aerodynamic – Bullet drop is more pronounced at longer distances compared to high-velocity bottlenecked rounds.
- Fewer Bullet Options – Compared to bottleneck cartridges, straight-wall calibers don’t offer as much variety in load selection.
.350 Legend vs .400 Legend: How They Compare
Two of the most popular straight-wall cartridges on the market today are the .350 Legend and the .400 Legend, both developed by Winchester. While they share some similarities, they serve slightly different purposes and excel in different hunting scenarios.
Winchester's Role in Cartridge Development
Winchester played a significant role in the development of these cartridges. Their expertise was crucial in creating designs that not only met legal requirements but also performed well in the field. The launch of the .350 Legend targeted hunters needing a straight-wall option. It quickly filled a niche vacated by other rounds like the .450 Bushmaster.
When Winchester introduced the .400 Legend, they addressed the demand for ammunition that could handle heavier bullets while still complying with hunting laws. These innovations pushed the ammunition industry forward. By catering to hunters’ needs, Winchester solidified its role as a leader in cartridge development.
Development and Purpose
The .350 Legend made its debut in 2019 as a modern, low-recoil hunting cartridge specifically designed to meet straight-wall hunting laws. It quickly gained traction due to its compatibility with AR-15 and bolt-action platforms, mild recoil, and excellent performance within 200 yards. This cartridge fills a much-needed gap for hunters who want an effective deer round without excessive recoil.
The .400 Legend, introduced in 2023, was designed for hunters needing additional power. It features a wider bullet diameter and heavier bullets, making it a more effective option for larger game such as black bears or even elk. Essentially, it bridges the gap between the .350 Legend and larger straight-wall cartridges like the .450 Bushmaster.
Ballistics and Performance
Feature
.350 Legend
.400 Legend
Bullet Diameter
.357 inches
.4005 inches
Case Length
1.71 inches
Slightly longer than .350 Legend
Muzzle Velocity
~2,200 fps (150 gr)
~2,250 fps (215 gr)
Muzzle Energy
~1,800 ft-lbs
~2,600 ft-lbs
Effective Range
~200 yards
~225 yards
Recoil
Low
Moderate
- .350 Legend is optimal for whitetail deer hunting due to its mild recoil and accuracy.
- .400 Legend delivers more stopping power, making it better suited for larger game or situations requiring deeper penetration.
- The .350 Legend has a flatter trajectory, while the .400 Legend retains more energy at longer distances.
Hunting Applications
Choosing between the .350 Legend and .400 Legend largely depends on what game you plan to hunt and how much recoil you’re willing to tolerate.
- The .350 Legend is the top choice for deer hunters. Its light recoil allows for quick follow-up shots and precision accuracy, making it ideal for whitetail deer hunting.
- The .400 Legend is the superior choice for larger game like black Bears or wild hogs, as it provides increased stopping power and energy retention.
- Both cartridges comply with straight-wall-only regulations, ensuring they are viable options in states with hunting restrictions.
Rifle Platforms and Availability
One of the biggest advantages of the .350 Legend is its broad compatibility with different rifle platforms. Since it fits into AR-15s, bolt-action rifles, and single-shots, hunters have a wide selection of firearms to choose from. The .400 Legend, while newer, is also seeing increasing support from major manufacturers, particularly in bolt-action configurations.
Ammunition availability is another factor. The .350 Legend, having been on the market longer, enjoys greater variety and accessibility. As the .400 Legend gains traction, its ammunition selection is expected to grow, but for now, options are more limited.
Conclusion
Straight-wall cartridges provide hunters with an excellent balance of power, legality, and usability. They offer practical solutions for those hunting in states with restrictions on bottleneck cartridges while still delivering the performance needed for ethical kills.
The .350 Legend remains the top pick for deer hunters due to its low recoil, accuracy, and effectiveness within 200 yards. However, for those needing more power, the .400 Legend is a great alternative, offering increased energy and deeper penetration, making it better suited for larger game.
Ultimately, your choice between these two cartridges should come down to what you hunt, how much recoil you’re comfortable with, and what rifles and ammunition are available to you. Either way, both the .350 Legend and .400 Legend ensure ethical, efficient hunting experiences where straight-wall cartridges are required.