Introduction
The world of firearms is a diverse landscape, with cartridges of all shapes, sizes, and performance characteristics. For those seeking a rifle suitable for hunting or sport shooting, two popular choices often emerge: the iconic 7.62×39 and the relatively new contender, the 350 Legend. Both of these rounds offer unique strengths and weaknesses, making the choice between them a matter of understanding their individual characteristics and how they align with your specific needs and shooting preferences. This in-depth comparison aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of these two cartridges, helping you make an informed decision on which best fits your requirements.
Background of 7.62×39
History and Origin
The foundation of understanding any cartridge begins with its origin and design. The 7.62×39, a round steeped in history, was born from the crucible of World War II. Developed by the Soviet Union, its primary purpose was to equip the then-new AK-47 assault rifle. This decision transformed warfare and left a lasting impact on how the world looked at firearms. Its initial purpose was to provide infantry with a more controllable round than the then-standard full-power rifle cartridges. It served that purpose well. The design focused on creating a versatile cartridge capable of reliable operation in harsh environments, contributing to the legendary reputation of the AK-47. The 7.62×39 features a bottlenecked case, a design choice that helps with reliable feeding in automatic weapons.
Characteristics of 7.62×39
In stark contrast, the 350 Legend has a relatively young lineage, emerging onto the scene in 2019. Winchester designed this cartridge with a specific goal in mind: to meet the rising trend of straight-walled cartridge hunting regulations in certain states. These regulations often restrict hunters to using straight-walled cartridges in specific areas, in an attempt to reduce the risk of over-penetration and potential ricochets. The 350 Legend was engineered from the ground up to excel within these parameters, offering a compelling balance of performance and compliance. Its straight-walled design distinguishes it from the tapered case of the 7.62×39, making it a natural fit for regulated hunting zones.
Common Rifles Chambered in 7.62×39
The 7.62×39 uses a bullet with a .310 to .311-inch diameter. The bullet shape and weight of the 7.62×39 can vary significantly, from lighter, faster bullets designed for military use to heavier bullets optimized for hunting. Depending on the manufacturer and the specific ammunition type, bullet weights typically range from 120 grains to 154 grains. The cartridge’s velocity is typically around 2350 feet per second, offering a significant energy transfer at reasonable distances. This energy transfer is part of what makes this cartridge so popular.
Background of 350 Legend
History and Origin
The 350 Legend, by comparison, utilizes a .357-inch diameter bullet, offering a larger frontal area than the 7.62×39. While the 350 Legend’s bullet selection is growing, common bullet weights fall into a range of 145 grains to 180 grains. The unique design of the 350 Legend allows it to achieve impressive velocities, with some loads reaching over 2200 feet per second. This exceptional velocity, combined with a relatively heavy bullet, results in a flatter trajectory and impressive performance on target.
Characteristics of 350 Legend
One of the most important aspects for any shooter is the practical performance of a cartridge. When we consider the ballistics, the trajectory of the 7.62×39 begins to arc noticeably beyond 100 yards. The bullet drops more rapidly than the 350 Legend. The 350 Legend, on the other hand, offers a flatter trajectory, with less bullet drop at longer ranges. This flatter trajectory gives the 350 Legend an advantage at longer ranges and makes for easier holdover and sighting adjustments.
Common Rifles Chambered in 350 Legend
The accuracy of each cartridge is another critical consideration. The 7.62×39, due to its military origins and wide availability in various rifles, can exhibit varying degrees of accuracy. The AK-47 platform, while robust and reliable, wasn’t initially designed for pinpoint accuracy. However, modern rifles, particularly AR-15 variants, have improved significantly. The 350 Legend is designed with accuracy in mind, and it typically produces tighter groups, particularly in modern rifles. However, external factors such as shooter skill, rifle quality, and ammunition quality also affect accuracy.
Direct Comparison: Performance Metrics
Ballistics
Recoil is another aspect to consider. The 7.62×39 is known for a moderate recoil, which is manageable for most shooters. The 350 Legend, typically, has slightly less felt recoil, making it a more pleasant cartridge to shoot for extended periods. The reduced recoil can also contribute to better shot placement and faster follow-up shots.
Accuracy
When it comes to hunting, the performance of both cartridges can be evaluated. The 7.62×39 is a capable hunting cartridge for medium-sized game animals at moderate ranges. Its heavier bullets and significant energy transfer cause significant tissue damage, and excellent penetration. The 350 Legend, because of its flat trajectory and high velocity, is well-suited for various game animals, particularly in hunting areas that require straight-walled cartridges. It typically offers excellent terminal performance, with good expansion and penetration on target.
Recoil
Practical considerations, however, also play a pivotal role in this decision. The availability of ammunition is a critical factor. The 7.62×39 is found worldwide, and offers a wide range of bullet designs and loading options. Ammo is extremely affordable, making it a popular choice for range time. The 350 Legend is now also widely available, but offers fewer bullet types and may cost a bit more.
Hunting Performance
The cost and variety of rifles available for each cartridge also make a difference. The 7.62×39 is found in several platforms from several manufacturers, and is typically cheaper than an AR-15 chambered in 350 Legend. The 350 Legend is predominantly chambered in AR-15 platforms and bolt-action rifles.
Direct Comparison: Practical Considerations
Availability and Cost of Ammunition
Furthermore, hunting regulations play a significant role in the choice. The 350 Legend is designed to comply with straight-walled cartridge restrictions, making it the obvious choice in those specific hunting zones. The 7.62×39 might not be legal for hunting in those locations.
Rifle Availability and Cost
So, how do you determine which cartridge is best for your needs? First, ask yourself what you plan to use the cartridge for. If your focus is on hunting in an area with restrictive regulations, the 350 Legend is the natural choice. Its straight-walled design and excellent performance characteristics align perfectly with those requirements. If you’re interested in the lowest-cost, with high availability, or you are comfortable with managing a bit more recoil, the 7.62×39 will likely be an excellent choice. The AK-47 will be a good introduction to the cartridge, however the AR-15 platform offers much better accuracy.
Compliance with Hunting Regulations
In conclusion, the decision between the 7.62×39 and the 350 Legend depends on individual needs. The 7.62×39, with its rich history, affordable ammo and wide availability of firearms, offers exceptional value and versatility. The 350 Legend, on the other hand, provides hunters and shooters with a modern, high-performance cartridge designed to meet the demands of changing hunting regulations, and offers increased accuracy and reduced recoil. By carefully considering your specific needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision and select the cartridge that best suits your shooting style and your objectives. The best cartridge is the one that performs most effectively for the job you have in mind.
Advantages of 7.62×39
If your focus is on hunting in an area with restrictive regulations, the 350 Legend is the natural choice. Its straight-walled design and excellent performance characteristics align perfectly with those requirements. If you’re interested in the lowest-cost, with high availability, or you are comfortable with managing a bit more recoil, the 7.62×39 will likely be an excellent choice. The AK-47 will be a good introduction to the cartridge, however the AR-15 platform offers much better accuracy.
Advantages of 350 Legend
In conclusion, the decision between the 7.62×39 and the 350 Legend depends on individual needs. The 7.62×39, with its rich history, affordable ammo and wide availability of firearms, offers exceptional value and versatility. The 350 Legend, on the other hand, provides hunters and shooters with a modern, high-performance cartridge designed to meet the demands of changing hunting regulations, and offers increased accuracy and reduced recoil. By carefully considering your specific needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision and select the cartridge that best suits your shooting style and your objectives. The best cartridge is the one that performs most effectively for the job you have in mind.
Which Cartridge is Right for You?
If your focus is on hunting in an area with restrictive regulations, the 350 Legend is the natural choice. Its straight-walled design and excellent performance characteristics align perfectly with those requirements. If you’re interested in the lowest-cost, with high availability, or you are comfortable with managing a bit more recoil, the 7.62×39 will likely be an excellent choice. The AK-47 will be a good introduction to the cartridge, however the AR-15 platform offers much better accuracy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decision between the 7.62×39 and the 350 Legend depends on individual needs. The 7.62×39, with its rich history, affordable ammo and wide availability of firearms, offers exceptional value and versatility. The 350 Legend, on the other hand, provides hunters and shooters with a modern, high-performance cartridge designed to meet the demands of changing hunting regulations, and offers increased accuracy and reduced recoil. By carefully considering your specific needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision and select the cartridge that best suits your shooting style and your objectives. The best cartridge is the one that performs most effectively for the job you have in mind.
