The 400 Legend cartridge has rapidly carved a niche for itself in the shooting world. It’s a modern straight-walled cartridge designed for exceptional performance, offering a great balance of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter looking for a new caliber or a recreational shooter seeking an efficient round, the 400 Legend offers compelling advantages. This guide delves into the manufacturers behind the 400 Legend rifles, providing a comprehensive look at the available options and helping you navigate the market to find the perfect firearm for your needs.
Understanding the 400 Legend
Before we jump into the manufacturers, let’s briefly recap what makes the 400 Legend stand out. This cartridge was created to excel where straight-walled cartridges are preferred or mandated, especially for hunting. It offers a flat trajectory, enabling hunters to reach out further than many other comparable calibers while delivering substantial energy on impact. The 400 Legend is known for its relatively mild recoil compared to other hunting cartridges, making it comfortable to shoot, even for extended periods. Its design allows it to function reliably in both bolt-action and semi-automatic rifles, expanding its appeal to a wide range of shooters. This versatility, combined with its power and efficiency, has fueled its popularity.
Primary Manufacturers of 400 Legend Rifles
The 400 Legend’s growing popularity has driven several reputable firearms manufacturers to offer rifles chambered in this caliber. This competition breeds innovation, and the options available are diverse, catering to various preferences and shooting styles.
CMMG’s Presence in the 400 Legend Market
CMMG has become a significant player in the 400 Legend arena. Known for their commitment to quality and innovation, CMMG offers rifles built on the AR-15 platform. This platform provides modularity and adaptability, allowing for customization and easy upgrades. CMMG’s 400 Legend rifles often incorporate their proprietary technology, enhancing reliability and performance.
AR-15 Platform
CMMG’s rifles chambered in 400 Legend are predominantly based on the AR-15 platform. This gives the user a wide variety of aftermarket options, from handguards and stocks to optics mounts and triggers. The modular design allows for easy adaptation to various shooting scenarios.
Specific Models
Within CMMG’s 400 Legend lineup, you’ll often find models like the Resolute and Endeavor. These rifles frequently come with features like free-floating handguards for enhanced accuracy, durable finishes for environmental protection, and quality barrels for consistent performance. Barrel lengths vary, allowing shooters to choose the configuration that best suits their needs, whether it’s a shorter, more maneuverable rifle for close-quarters hunting or a longer-barreled option for increased velocity and extended range.
Innovations and Technology
CMMG constantly pushes the boundaries of firearms technology. They are often at the forefront of introducing new features and enhancements that improve the shooting experience. They typically focus on improving reliability, accuracy, and ergonomics in their 400 Legend rifles, making them a popular choice among serious shooters.
Ruger’s Contributions to the 400 Legend Landscape
Ruger, a well-respected name in the firearms industry, also recognizes the 400 Legend’s potential. They provide a different approach to this caliber, primarily focused on bolt-action rifles, offering excellent value and reliability.
Bolt-Action Rifles
Ruger’s emphasis on bolt-action rifles provides shooters with a traditionally reliable and accurate platform. Bolt-action rifles are often favored for their simplicity, durability, and inherent accuracy. Ruger’s bolt-action 400 Legend rifles are built with these qualities in mind.
Notable Models
The Ruger American Rifle is a popular choice among those looking for a 400 Legend bolt-action. Known for their affordability, accuracy, and user-friendly design, these rifles are great for both hunting and target shooting. Features include a lightweight synthetic stock for weather resistance, a cold hammer-forged barrel for exceptional accuracy, and an adjustable trigger for a customized feel.
Pricing, Availability, and Configurations
Ruger generally positions its rifles in a competitive price range, making them accessible to a broader audience. The Ruger American Rifle offers various configurations, allowing buyers to select the barrel length, stock material, and other features that fit their specific preferences. Their availability is often widespread, and the combination of features and affordability makes them a standout in the 400 Legend market.
Other Notable Manufacturers
While CMMG and Ruger represent two significant players, the 400 Legend market is not limited to these manufacturers. Several other brands are also developing and offering rifles chambered for this round.
Savage Arms
Known for producing accurate and affordable bolt-action rifles, Savage has introduced models in 400 Legend. These rifles often feature adjustable triggers, AccuTrigger technology for safety and improved precision, and accurate barrels.
Mossberg
Mossberg has stepped into the 400 Legend space, and they tend to offer value-driven options with reliable performance. They provide bolt-action rifles with features designed for hunters and target shooters.
Other brands
As the 400 Legend continues its rise in popularity, we can expect more manufacturers to join the fray, bringing even more options and innovation to the table. This increased competition benefits consumers by offering a wider range of choices at various price points.
Deciding on the Right 400 Legend Rifle
Choosing the right 400 Legend rifle involves considering several factors to make sure you are getting what fits your needs.
Primary Uses
Hunting
The 400 Legend is an excellent hunting cartridge. Bolt-action rifles are often preferred in this scenario due to their inherent accuracy, reliability, and suitability for various hunting environments. Choosing the right rifle for hunting means considering the type of game you intend to pursue, the typical ranges you’ll be shooting, and the terrain you’ll be hunting in.
Target Shooting
For recreational target shooting, the 400 Legend offers a manageable recoil and flat trajectory, making it fun and challenging. The AR-15 platform rifles allow you to add accessories to make your shooting experience even more enjoyable.
Rifle Types
Bolt-Action
Bolt-action rifles are renowned for their accuracy and reliability. They are mechanically simple, making them durable and easy to maintain. They’re generally well-suited for hunting, where accuracy is paramount.
Semi-Automatic (AR-15)
Semi-automatic rifles, often built on the AR-15 platform, offer rapid follow-up shots. This can be advantageous in certain hunting situations or for target shooting where a faster rate of fire is desired. The AR-15 platform’s modularity allows for customization and adaptability to different shooting environments.
Essential Features
Barrel Length and Twist Rate
Barrel length impacts velocity and accuracy. The twist rate (how quickly the bullet spins) is crucial for stability.
Stock Material
Synthetic stocks are durable and weather-resistant, while wood stocks can offer a classic aesthetic.
Optics Mounting
Ensure the rifle has provisions for mounting optics. This could include a Picatinny rail or pre-drilled and tapped holes.
Magazine Capacity
Consider the magazine capacity, depending on the intended use. Hunting rifles typically have smaller capacity magazines, while target rifles often have higher capacities.
Budget Considerations
The price of a 400 Legend rifle varies widely. Prices range from more affordable options to high-end, feature-rich models. The cost of ammunition must also be included in the budget. Compare different models and brands, weigh your needs, and find a rifle that fits within your financial boundaries.
Purchasing Your 400 Legend Rifle
Where you buy your rifle can significantly affect your purchasing experience.
Local Gun Stores
Provide the benefit of being able to handle and inspect the firearm before you buy it, and you may also receive local support and advice.
Online Retailers
Offer a wide range of choices and competitive pricing. Be sure to check reviews and understand the return policy.
Important Considerations
Always comply with all local, state, and federal laws regarding firearm ownership. Make sure the seller has a good reputation, read customer reviews, and understand the warranty and return policies before making your purchase.
Concluding Thoughts
The 400 Legend offers a compelling combination of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil, making it a fantastic option for both hunting and target shooting. Several manufacturers recognize this and are actively producing high-quality rifles chambered in this versatile round. The choices are diverse, from AR-15-based rifles to bolt-action models, offering shooters a range of platforms and features to choose from. By considering your intended use, preferred rifle type, desired features, and budget, you can identify the perfect 400 Legend rifle that fits your needs. Thorough research and a bit of comparison will help you find the right rifle to experience all the 400 Legend has to offer.
Final Notes
The future of the 400 Legend cartridge looks promising, with increasing availability and growing interest from shooters. The market should continue to grow as more manufacturers enter and push the boundaries of 400 Legend rifle development. Explore the options, learn the details, and find the rifle that will help you get the most out of this excellent round.
