A Deep Dive into Cartridge Origins and Specifications
The Foundation: 35 Whelen
The heart of any cartridge comparison lies in understanding its origins and the basic specifications that define its performance. Let’s begin by examining the foundational aspects of the 35 Whelen and the 450 Bushmaster.
The 35 Whelen’s lineage can be traced back to the legendary .30-06 Springfield cartridge. Created by gunsmith James E. Whelen, the 35 Whelen emerged in the early 1920s. It ingeniously re-sizes the .30-06 case to accept a .358-inch diameter bullet. This simple yet effective transformation offered hunters a significant increase in bullet diameter and weight, leading to improved stopping power and downrange energy. The 35 Whelen offers a respectable balance between power and shootability, making it a popular choice for a wide variety of game animals.
The Foundation: 450 Bushmaster
The 450 Bushmaster, on the other hand, is a more recent development. Born from a collaboration between Hornady and Bushmaster Firearms, the 450 Bushmaster was specifically designed to deliver powerful, straight-wall performance, primarily intended for states with restrictions on bottleneck cartridges. This design constraint led to a cartridge that excelled in close-range engagements and offered the potential for hunting in areas where other cartridges were prohibited. The 450 Bushmaster quickly gained popularity for its potent performance in the modern sporting rifle platform.
Comparing the Basics
When comparing the basic dimensions, the differences are immediately apparent. The 35 Whelen typically uses a case derived from the longer .30-06 parent cartridge, resulting in an overall length that contributes to its flatter trajectory at longer ranges. The 450 Bushmaster’s straight-wall case is much shorter. This design, coupled with its larger bullet diameter, contributes to a more compact package, especially advantageous in the AR-15 platform.
Exploring Ballistics and Effective Ranges
35 Whelen Ballistics
Ballistics is the science of projectile motion, and it plays a crucial role in determining a cartridge’s effectiveness. The performance characteristics of both the 35 Whelen and the 450 Bushmaster are significantly influenced by their ballistic properties.
The 35 Whelen, with its larger case capacity and ability to propel bullets with respectable velocities, typically exhibits a flatter trajectory than the 450 Bushmaster. This means that a 35 Whelen bullet will drop less over distance, making it easier to accurately hit targets at longer ranges. This attribute is particularly valuable when hunting in open terrain or when taking longer shots. The typical effective range for the 35 Whelen can extend to 300 yards or even beyond, depending on the load and shooter’s skill.
450 Bushmaster Ballistics
The 450 Bushmaster, on the other hand, excels at close- to medium-range engagements. While it delivers a considerable amount of energy at the muzzle, the bullet’s trajectory curves significantly over distance. This is primarily due to the heavier bullets and lower ballistic coefficients often used in the 450 Bushmaster. Consequently, hunters need to carefully consider bullet drop when shooting beyond 200 yards. Its effective range is generally considered to be within 200-250 yards, making it a formidable choice for hunting in thick cover or in states with straight-wall cartridge regulations.
Energy Retention
Energy retention is another critical factor in assessing a cartridge’s effectiveness. The 35 Whelen, due to its higher muzzle velocity and sometimes more aerodynamic bullets, generally retains its energy better at longer distances. This means it delivers a more powerful impact on target at extended ranges. The 450 Bushmaster, while possessing impressive muzzle energy, tends to lose energy more rapidly as the bullet slows down.
Wind Drift
The impact of wind drift is another area of consideration. Wind affects lighter, slower bullets more than heavier, faster bullets. Therefore, the 450 Bushmaster, with its heavier bullets and lower velocities, can be more susceptible to wind drift. The 35 Whelen, with its typically faster velocities, often experiences less wind drift, further enhancing its accuracy at extended ranges.
Assessing Recoil and Handling Characteristics
Understanding Recoil
Recoil is an unavoidable aspect of shooting powerful cartridges, and it significantly impacts the shooting experience. The felt recoil of a rifle can affect accuracy, follow-up shot speed, and overall enjoyment.
Recoil of the 35 Whelen
The 35 Whelen, with its larger case capacity and powerful loads, generally produces a more noticeable recoil than the 450 Bushmaster. The recoil energy, which is a measure of the kinetic energy transferred to the shooter’s shoulder, will vary depending on the specific load and rifle weight. Lighter rifles chambered in 35 Whelen will typically generate more recoil.
Recoil of the 450 Bushmaster
The 450 Bushmaster, while still producing a considerable amount of recoil, often feels less punishing than the 35 Whelen. This is partly because of the shorter case and often, the lighter rifle platforms used in AR-15 chamberings of this cartridge. However, the recoil of the 450 Bushmaster should still be anticipated, especially in lighter rifles.
Factors Affecting Recoil
Factors influencing recoil include the rifle’s weight, the bullet’s weight, the amount of propellant used, and the presence of any recoil-reducing devices such as muzzle brakes or recoil pads. Heavier rifles tend to absorb more recoil, making the shooting experience more comfortable.
Follow-up Shots
The ability to quickly follow up shots is crucial, especially in hunting situations. The higher recoil of the 35 Whelen can sometimes make it slightly more challenging to maintain a sight picture for a follow-up shot. The 450 Bushmaster, with its potentially less forceful recoil, might offer a quicker return to target acquisition. However, shooter experience and practice also play a significant role in follow-up shot speed.
Matching Cartridges to Hunting Applications
35 Whelen: Hunting Applications
Selecting the right cartridge also depends on the specific game animals you intend to hunt. The characteristics of each cartridge dictate the suitability for various hunting scenarios.
The 35 Whelen is a versatile cartridge suitable for a wide range of game. It’s an excellent choice for medium-sized to large game, including deer, black bear, and even elk, particularly at moderate ranges. Its flatter trajectory and greater effective range make it well-suited for hunting in open country. The ability to choose bullets from 180 to 250 grains makes the 35 Whelen a very versatile option.
450 Bushmaster: Hunting Applications
The 450 Bushmaster shines in close-range engagements and in areas with regulations that restrict hunters to using straight-wall cartridges. It’s a potent option for deer, black bear, and feral hogs, especially in thick cover where shots are typically taken at relatively short distances. It provides an impressive knock-down power at those ranges. However, it is important to remember that the limited range means this cartridge is not the best choice for open fields or areas requiring longer-range shots.
Bullet Selection
Considerations for the selection of suitable bullets are critical. The 35 Whelen offers an array of bullet weight options from several manufacturers, allowing hunters to select a bullet that matches the size and toughness of the game they pursue. Similarly, the 450 Bushmaster is well-served with specialized bullets designed for short-range impact and controlled expansion.
Evaluating Ammunition and Rifle Choices
Ammunition Availability: 35 Whelen and 450 Bushmaster
Beyond the ballistic and hunting performance aspects, ammunition and rifle availability are crucial factors for making a well-informed decision.
Factory ammunition is readily available for both the 35 Whelen and the 450 Bushmaster. However, the 450 Bushmaster might be more widely available in some regions, particularly given its popularity and widespread use in AR-15 platforms. The cost of ammunition will vary depending on the brand, bullet type, and availability.
Reloading Options
Reloading is an option for both cartridges, enabling hunters to customize their loads to optimize performance. The 35 Whelen utilizes a wider range of reloading components, as it draws upon the readily available .30-06 parent cartridge for a great deal of its components. The 450 Bushmaster, while somewhat newer, is also well-supported with reloading components. This empowers shooters to experiment with different bullet weights, powders, and other variables.
Rifle Platform Options
Rifle availability is also an essential consideration. The 35 Whelen is typically found in bolt-action rifles. These rifles are renowned for their accuracy and ruggedness. The 450 Bushmaster, on the other hand, is available in both bolt-action and AR-15 platforms. The AR-15 platform offers the advantages of a modular design and ease of customization, while the bolt-action rifles can offer a more traditional shooting experience.
Cost Analysis
Cost is another major factor. The price of a new rifle varies greatly depending on the manufacturer, features, and overall build quality. Ammunition cost also plays a role, as the price per round can add up over time.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
35 Whelen: Pros and Cons
A direct comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of each cartridge will help you determine which one best suits your needs.
The 35 Whelen’s advantages include a flatter trajectory, longer effective range, and greater versatility in handling different game animals. Some disadvantages of the 35 Whelen include potentially heavier recoil, and finding rifles can be slightly more challenging compared to other widely produced cartridges.
450 Bushmaster: Pros and Cons
The 450 Bushmaster’s key advantages encompass excellent performance in short-range engagements, compliance with straight-wall cartridge restrictions, and the availability of AR-15 platform rifles. Its disadvantages might include a shorter effective range compared to more powerful alternatives and some limitations in bullet selection compared to more established cartridges.
Guiding Buyer Considerations
Before making a final decision, carefully consider the following factors.
- Hunting Applications: Define the type of game you intend to pursue and the hunting environments you typically frequent.
- Effective Range: Determine the typical shooting distances in your hunting areas.
- Recoil Tolerance: Evaluate your comfort level with recoil.
- Budget: Set a budget for rifles and ammunition.
- Ammunition Availability: Confirm the availability of ammunition in your region.
- Local Regulations: Research any local regulations, particularly those that may pertain to straight-wall cartridge requirements.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Cartridge
Ultimately, the choice between the 35 Whelen and the 450 Bushmaster is a personal one.
If your hunting typically involves medium to large game, longer shots, and you are comfortable with greater recoil, the 35 Whelen might be an excellent option. Its versatility and flatter trajectory can offer advantages.
If you primarily hunt in close-quarters situations, require a straight-wall cartridge for regulatory purposes, and prefer the modern sporting rifle platform, the 450 Bushmaster provides potent stopping power at shorter ranges.
Consider your individual hunting style, the typical conditions you encounter, and your personal preferences to arrive at the best decision for you. With a clear understanding of each cartridge’s attributes, you can confidently choose the one that will deliver the results you seek. This comprehensive comparison should guide you in selecting the best choice, leading to successful and enjoyable hunts.
