The 35 Remington, a versatile and powerful cartridge, has gained popularity among hunters and outdoor enthusiasts due to its impressive performance and compatibility with various rifles. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of the 35 Remington Lever Action Rifle, exploring its history, features, and its impact on the hunting and shooting community.
A Brief History of the 35 Remington
The 35 Remington cartridge was introduced in 1906 by Remington Arms Company, making it one of the oldest commercial cartridges still in use today. It was designed specifically for lever-action rifles, with the goal of providing hunters with a reliable and effective round for medium-sized game.
The cartridge's development was a response to the demand for a more powerful option than the popular 30-30 Winchester, which was prevalent at the time. Remington aimed to create a cartridge that could deliver increased velocity and energy, resulting in improved performance on larger game animals.
Key Features of the 35 Remington Cartridge
The 35 Remington cartridge boasts several notable features that have contributed to its success and longevity:
- Ballistics: The cartridge offers a flat trajectory and impressive downrange energy retention, making it ideal for hunting at moderate ranges. Its ballistic performance is comparable to that of the 30-30 Winchester, but with a higher velocity and slightly more energy.
- Recoil: Despite its increased power, the 35 Remington is known for its relatively mild recoil, making it a comfortable choice for shooters of various skill levels.
- Availability: Over the years, the 35 Remington has maintained a steady presence in the ammunition market, with various manufacturers offering a range of bullet weights and types. This availability ensures that shooters have access to a diverse selection of loads to suit their specific needs.
- Compatibility: The cartridge's popularity is closely tied to its compatibility with a wide range of lever-action rifles. Many rifle manufacturers, including Marlin, Winchester, and Henry, have produced rifles chambered in 35 Remington, providing shooters with a variety of options.
Lever Action Rifles Chambered in 35 Remington
The 35 Remington cartridge has found a home in numerous lever-action rifles, each offering its own unique set of features and advantages. Here are some notable examples:
Marlin 336
The Marlin 336 is an iconic lever-action rifle that has been a staple in the hunting community for decades. Chambered in 35 Remington, it offers reliable performance and accuracy. The rifle's robust construction and smooth action make it a favorite among hunters seeking a versatile and durable firearm.
Winchester Model 94
The Winchester Model 94, often referred to as the "Winchester 94," is a legendary lever-action rifle with a rich history. Introduced in 1894, it has undergone several iterations, with the 35 Remington version being a popular choice among shooters. The Model 94 combines classic aesthetics with modern performance, making it a sought-after rifle for both hunting and collecting.
Henry Lever Action Rifle
Henry, known for its innovative and reliable firearms, offers a lever-action rifle chambered in 35 Remington. The Henry Lever Action Rifle is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and smooth cycling action. With its sleek design and modern features, it appeals to both traditional and modern shooters.
Hunting Applications of the 35 Remington
The 35 Remington cartridge has proven to be a versatile and effective choice for a wide range of hunting scenarios. Its performance and capabilities make it suitable for the following game species:
- Deer
- Antelope
- Black Bear
- Hogs
- Medium-sized Game Birds
The cartridge's flat trajectory and excellent energy retention allow hunters to confidently take shots at moderate ranges, ensuring accurate and ethical harvests.
Ammunition Options for the 35 Remington
Shooters have a wide array of ammunition options to choose from when it comes to the 35 Remington cartridge. Manufacturers offer various bullet weights and types, allowing hunters to tailor their loads to specific game species and hunting conditions. Some popular ammunition choices include:
- 150-grain Soft Point
- 160-grain Soft Point
- 180-grain Soft Point
- 150-grain Hollow Point
- 180-grain Hollow Point
The availability of different bullet weights and designs enables shooters to optimize their ammunition for specific hunting scenarios, ensuring maximum effectiveness and performance.
Handloading the 35 Remington
For those interested in handloading their own ammunition, the 35 Remington cartridge provides an excellent option. Handloading allows shooters to fine-tune their loads, experiment with different bullet types, and achieve the desired performance characteristics. With the right components and equipment, handloading the 35 Remington can result in accurate and cost-effective ammunition.
Precision Shooting with the 35 Remington
While the 35 Remington is primarily known for its hunting capabilities, it also excels in precision shooting disciplines. Lever-action rifles chambered in 35 Remington have gained popularity in competitions such as Cowboy Action Shooting and metallic silhouette shooting. The cartridge's accuracy and flat trajectory make it a formidable choice for long-range precision shooting.
The Future of the 35 Remington
Despite its age, the 35 Remington cartridge shows no signs of slowing down. Its popularity among hunters and shooters continues to grow, thanks to its proven performance and compatibility with a wide range of lever-action rifles. With ongoing advancements in ammunition technology and rifle design, the 35 Remington is well-positioned to remain a staple in the shooting community for years to come.
Conclusion
The 35 Remington Lever Action Rifle has established itself as a reliable and versatile firearm, offering hunters and shooters an excellent blend of power, accuracy, and tradition. Its rich history, combined with modern advancements, makes it a cartridge that continues to thrive in the ever-evolving world of hunting and shooting. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a precision shooter, the 35 Remington is sure to deliver exceptional performance and an enjoyable shooting experience.
What is the optimal bullet weight for hunting with the 35 Remington?
+The choice of bullet weight depends on the game species being hunted. For deer and antelope, 150-grain or 160-grain soft point bullets are commonly used. For larger game like black bear or hogs, 180-grain soft point bullets are preferred. It’s important to consult local regulations and seek expert advice to determine the most suitable bullet weight for your specific hunting needs.
Can the 35 Remington be used for self-defense purposes?
+While the 35 Remington cartridge has proven effective for hunting, its suitability for self-defense is limited. The cartridge’s primary purpose is for hunting medium-sized game, and its ballistic characteristics may not provide the necessary stopping power for self-defense scenarios. It is always recommended to choose a dedicated self-defense cartridge for personal protection.
Are there any modern lever-action rifles chambered in 35 Remington?
+Yes, several modern lever-action rifle manufacturers offer models chambered in 35 Remington. These rifles often feature improved designs, materials, and finishes, providing shooters with a blend of traditional aesthetics and modern performance. Some popular modern options include the Henry X Series and the Marlin 336XLR.
