A Brief History of These Cartridges
The 450 Bushmaster’s Origins
The 450 Bushmaster, born from a collaboration with Hornady and Bushmaster Firearms, arrived on the scene with a straightforward goal: to create a hard-hitting, straight-walled cartridge for hunting applications. It was designed specifically to meet the hunting regulations in certain states, where bottle-necked cartridges were prohibited. The primary goal was power. Its development reflected a growing demand for a powerful, effective cartridge that could legally be used in designated hunting zones.
The 400 Legend’s Arrival
The 400 Legend, a slightly newer cartridge, originated from Winchester. Its design aimed to improve upon existing straight-walled cartridges, focusing on enhanced ballistics and reduced recoil compared to what was previously available. It sought to maximize performance within the constraints of straight-walled cartridge designs. The development of the 400 Legend shows the continuous evolution of cartridge designs, seeking efficiency and performance.
Key Features
Cartridge Dimensions
A vital starting point for understanding both cartridges is to familiarize yourself with their physical characteristics. These dimensions influence everything from ballistics to rifle design.
The 450 Bushmaster utilizes a larger bullet diameter than the 400 Legend. It has a larger case, which contributes to its ability to handle heavier bullets and generate greater energy at close range. The 450 Bushmaster is the older and larger of the two rounds.
The 400 Legend features a smaller bullet diameter but has a more efficient case design. It offers a flatter trajectory, meaning the bullet drops less over distance.
Ballistics: Unpacking Performance
The true measure of any cartridge lies in its ballistic performance. Let’s look at the common trajectories and downrange energy levels. This is where the nuances between the 400 Legend and the 450 Bushmaster begin to reveal themselves.
Let’s begin with some common ballistic information. Bullet weights and types will vary, but the general trends will be the same.
450 Bushmaster (Example Ballistics – Based on a common 250-grain bullet):
Muzzle Velocity: Around 2200 feet per second (fps).
Velocity at 100 yards: Approximately 1800 fps.
Velocity at 200 yards: Approximately 1500 fps.
Velocity at 300 yards: Approximately 1250 fps.
Energy at Muzzle: Around 2700 foot-pounds (ft-lbs).
Energy at 100 yards: Around 1800 ft-lbs.
Energy at 200 yards: Around 1250 ft-lbs.
Energy at 300 yards: Around 900 ft-lbs.
Bullet Drop (Zeroed at 100 yards): Roughly -10 inches at 200 yards, and roughly -30 inches at 300 yards.
400 Legend (Example Ballistics – Based on a common 170-grain bullet):
Muzzle Velocity: Around 2200 – 2250 fps.
Velocity at 100 yards: Approximately 1950 fps.
Velocity at 200 yards: Approximately 1700 fps.
Velocity at 300 yards: Approximately 1450 fps.
Energy at Muzzle: Around 1800 ft-lbs.
Energy at 100 yards: Around 1400 ft-lbs.
Energy at 200 yards: Around 1100 ft-lbs.
Energy at 300 yards: Around 800 ft-lbs.
Bullet Drop (Zeroed at 100 yards): Roughly -6 inches at 200 yards, and roughly -18 inches at 300 yards.
The 450 Bushmaster begins with a significant advantage in terms of energy, especially at the muzzle. However, as the distances increase, this advantage diminishes. The 400 Legend, with its flatter trajectory, demonstrates better downrange performance. This means a hunter using the 400 Legend can potentially reach out further with a more accurate shot placement.
Hunting and Shooting: What to Expect
The intended use of your rifle plays a critical role in cartridge selection. Let’s examine how these cartridges perform in different scenarios.
Hunting
The 450 Bushmaster excels in close-range hunting situations, particularly within its more limited effective range. It’s the choice for larger game, like deer and hogs, where its heavier bullets and higher initial energy can deliver a substantial impact. The larger bullet diameter creates a wider wound channel, enhancing its stopping power.
The 400 Legend offers a longer effective range, which can be important in environments with open fields or where shots at greater distances are more common. The flatter trajectory translates into better accuracy at extended distances, making it a viable option for hunting in states with hunting restrictions.
Shooting
Recoil is a crucial factor for many shooters, and this is where the 400 Legend demonstrates a significant edge. The lower recoil impulse makes the 400 Legend more comfortable to shoot. This means you can enjoy longer range sessions and practice more consistently. The flatter trajectory and better recoil management can also translate to more accurate shooting.
Availability of Gear
Understanding what you can actually acquire to feed your new rifle is important.
Ammunition
Both cartridges are readily available, but there can be differences. 450 Bushmaster is extremely common and has been around longer. The 400 Legend, although newer, is quickly gaining popularity. Ammunition prices vary based on the brand and bullet type, but both cartridges typically offer a range of options to accommodate different budgets.
Rifles
Both cartridges are offered in a variety of rifle platforms, though the 450 Bushmaster has a slightly more established presence. You can find rifles in bolt-action, semi-automatic (AR-15 platforms), and even lever-action configurations for both cartridges. Rifle prices are dependent on the model and the manufacturer.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Every cartridge has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s analyze both of these options in a direct comparison.
The 450 Bushmaster has the benefit of the larger bullet diameter, meaning a wider wound channel on impact. It can be the better choice for short-range hunting scenarios. The downside is the higher recoil, which can cause discomfort for some shooters.
The 400 Legend gives you a flatter trajectory, enhancing accuracy at longer ranges. The reduced recoil also makes it a more comfortable option for extended shooting sessions. However, the smaller bullet diameter means the round has less energy downrange.
Regulations and Considerations
Hunting regulations play a crucial role in cartridge selection. Many states have restrictions on the type of cartridges allowed for hunting. The rules may specify the minimum or maximum case length, bullet diameter, or even the type of action allowed.
The 400 Legend is often a more compliant cartridge in states with straight-walled cartridge restrictions.
Making the Right Decision
The best cartridge for you depends on a number of factors.
Consider your hunting needs. If your shots are primarily close-range and you’re targeting large game, the 450 Bushmaster might be the better choice. If you need a flatter trajectory and need to maintain accuracy over longer distances, the 400 Legend is likely the better choice.
Check the local regulations in your area. Make sure the cartridge you choose is legal for hunting.
Consider your recoil tolerance and comfort level. If you’re sensitive to recoil, the 400 Legend offers a more comfortable shooting experience.
Final Thoughts
Both the 400 Legend and the 450 Bushmaster are effective cartridges. Your choice should be based on a careful assessment of your specific requirements. Both have a place in the world of hunting and shooting.
Choosing the right cartridge is an important decision, so do your own research, handle both rounds and rifles, and consider what is best for your hunting needs!
Disclaimer: Always follow local laws and regulations regarding firearms and hunting practices. Information on ballistics is approximate and can vary based on the specific ammunition used.
