The introduction of the .350 Legend cartridge by Winchester in 2019 was a game-changer for hunters in states with straight-walled cartridge regulations. Offering a unique blend of accuracy, reduced recoil, and effective terminal ballistics, the .350 Legend quickly became a go-to choice for deer hunters. Winchester capitalized on this trend with the release of the Winchester XPR chambered in .350 Legend, a rifle that combines the power of this cartridge with the precision engineering of the XPR series. In this review, weโll dive into the features, performance, and value of the Winchester XPR 350 Legend, examining why it has quickly become a favorite among hunters.
Overview: An Introduction to the XPR 350 Legend
The Winchester XPR series has already established itself as a reliable, affordable bolt-action rifle line known for its accuracy and durability. Chambering this rifle in the .350 Legend only strengthens its appeal, particularly for hunters in states like Michigan, Ohio, and Iowa, where straight-walled cartridges are required for deer hunting. The XPR 350 Legend offers a modern solution for hunters looking for power and range without the heavy recoil associated with larger calibers like the .450 Bushmaster.
The .350 Legend cartridge is known for its flat trajectory and the ability to deliver energy efficiently at medium ranges, making it ideal for hunting whitetail deer and other medium-sized game. The XPRโs design enhances these ballistic characteristics, giving hunters a rifle that excels at both short- and mid-range engagements.
Available with a variety of configurations, including synthetic stocks and iron sights, the XPR 350 Legend is built to be versatile. Whether you prefer to hunt from a blind, tree stand, or stalk through the woods, the XPR adapts to different hunting styles.
Build and Ergonomics: Designed for Practicality
One of the key features of the Winchester XPR 350 Legend is its rugged and practical design. The rifle features a synthetic stock thatโs built to withstand harsh hunting conditions, whether youโre dealing with rain, snow, or extreme cold. The synthetic material isnโt just lightweight; itโs also durable and easy to maintain, making it an excellent choice for hunters who spend extended periods in the field.
The rifleโs weight comes in at around 6.5 pounds, making it light enough to carry for long treks without feeling cumbersome, yet sturdy enough to help manage recoil effectively. The XPR also includes a recoil pad that utilizes Winchesterโs Inflex Technology, which helps to reduce felt recoil by diverting the energy away from the shooterโs shoulder. This is especially beneficial for hunters who may be sensitive to recoil or who want to avoid excessive fatigue during long shooting sessions.
Another thoughtful design feature is the rifleโs free-floating barrel. This enhances accuracy by preventing the stock from putting pressure on the barrel, which can cause inconsistencies in shot placement. The XPRโs barrel is also button-rifled, a technique that ensures uniformity and consistency in the rifling grooves, contributing to the rifleโs overall precision.
Accuracy and Precision: .350 Legendโs Sweet Spot
When paired with the .350 Legend cartridge, the XPR delivers excellent accuracy at typical hunting ranges. While the .350 Legend isnโt designed for long-range shooting, it excels at ranges between 100 to 250 yards, the sweet spot for most deer hunters. During field tests, the Winchester XPR 350 Legend consistently delivered sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy at 100 yards with quality ammunition. For a straight-walled cartridge, this level of accuracy is impressive and more than sufficient for taking down medium-sized game.
A key factor in the rifleโs accuracy is the M.O.A. trigger system. This user-adjustable trigger breaks crisply and cleanly, with minimal creep. For hunters, this means improved shot control and greater confidence in making precise, ethical kills. Winchester claims that the M.O.A. trigger system eliminates โovertravel,โ which helps shooters stay on target. Whether youโre a seasoned hunter or a newcomer, the smooth and predictable trigger pull makes a noticeable difference in shot placement.
Another advantage of the .350 Legend chambering is its relatively low recoil. This allows for faster follow-up shots, which can be critical in certain hunting scenarios. The reduced recoil, combined with the rifleโs ergonomic design, makes the XPR 350 Legend a solid choice for younger hunters or those who are recoil-sensitive.
Performance in the Field: Hunting with the XPR 350 Legend
The XPR 350 Legendโs real-world performance is where it truly shines. Hunters who primarily target whitetail deer will appreciate the flat trajectory and effective stopping power of the .350 Legend cartridge. Even at ranges up to 200 yards, the .350 Legend retains more than enough energy to ethically take down deer-sized game. The bulletโs design allows for deep penetration and efficient energy transfer, making it an ideal option for clean kills.
In terms of versatility, the XPR 350 Legend is capable of handling various types of game. While itโs particularly well-suited for whitetail deer, the rifle and cartridge combination is also effective against feral hogs and black bears. Its flat-shooting characteristics allow hunters to make quick, accurate shots, even in wooded or brush-filled environments.
The rifleโs detachable box magazine is another asset in the field. With a capacity of three rounds, the magazine is easy to load and feeds reliably, ensuring youโre always ready for a follow-up shot if needed. Additionally, the rifleโs bolt-action is smooth and fast, which makes cycling rounds a straightforward process. While the XPR doesnโt feature a three-position safety, its two-position safety is intuitive and easy to operate.
Durability and Reliability: Built for Harsh Conditions
Hunters often find themselves in less-than-ideal conditions, whether itโs torrential rain, heavy snow, or freezing temperatures. The Winchester XPR 350 Legend is designed to perform reliably in all of these situations. The synthetic stock and matte blued finish are weather-resistant, protecting the rifle from rust and corrosion.
The rifleโs full-diameter bolt is treated with a nickel Teflon coating, which not only provides added durability but also ensures smooth operation even when exposed to dirt or moisture. For hunters who frequently trek through difficult terrain or hunt in unpredictable weather, these features help maintain the rifleโs reliability and longevity.
In terms of maintenance, the XPR is relatively low-maintenance compared to rifles with wooden stocks. The synthetic stock is easy to clean, and the bolt-action mechanism is straightforward to disassemble for regular cleaning and lubrication. This makes the rifle an excellent choice for hunters who want a dependable firearm without spending excessive time on upkeep.
Value for Money: High Performance Without the Price Tag
One of the biggest advantages of the Winchester XPR 350 Legend is its price. Priced competitively in the $500 to $600 range, the XPR offers a lot of rifle for the money. When you consider its accuracy, durable build, and user-friendly features, the XPR stands out as a great value for hunters seeking a high-performing rifle without breaking the bank.
Moreover, the .350 Legend cartridge is known for being affordable, especially compared to larger, higher-recoil calibers. This means that not only is the rifle itself budget-friendly, but itโs also economical to shoot, making it an excellent option for hunters who want to practice regularly without spending a fortune on ammunition.
Conclusion: Is the Winchester XPR 350 Legend Worth It?
For hunters seeking a versatile, accurate, and durable rifle chambered in .350 Legend, the Winchester XPR 350 Legend is hard to beat. Whether youโre hunting whitetail deer, feral hogs, or black bears, this rifle offers the power, accuracy, and low recoil needed to succeed in the field. With its weather-resistant build, smooth action, and budget-friendly price point, the XPR 350 Legend is a fantastic choice for both new and experienced hunters.
If youโre in a state that mandates the use of straight-walled cartridges, or youโre simply looking for a rifle that offers a balance of performance and affordability, the Winchester XPR 350 Legend should be at the top of your list. Itโs a rifle that proves you donโt have to spend a fortune to get excellent accuracy, reliability, and durability.
