HENRY STEEL SIDE GATE .45/70
HENRY STEEL SIDE GATE .45/70
In recent years, many Midwest and Eastern states in the U.S. have legalized straight-wall cartridges for hunting, expanding hunters’ options for effective and accessible ammunition. Straight-wall cartridges are favored in regions with thick brush or limited visibility, as they excel in short- to mid-range accuracy and impact. Below are five of the top straight-wall cartridges for whitetail hunting and the popular rifles chambered for them, many available from manufacturers like Henry, Ruger, and Mossberg.
1. .350 Legend
Introduced by Winchester in 2019, the .350 Legend is quickly becoming a go-to for deer hunters. With minimal recoil and a range of up to 200 yards, it’s ideal for new or young hunters. Its lighter recoil also makes it suitable for a variety of shooting styles.
Performance and Use: It fires a 170-grain bullet at approximately 2,200 fps, providing enough stopping power for whitetail without excessive recoil.
Popular Rifles: The .350 Legend is available in rifles like the Ruger American, Mossberg Patriot, and Henry Single Shot, making it an affordable and accessible option for hunters.
2. .450 Bushmaster
The .450 Bushmaster packs a powerful punch, firing heavy bullets at close range with impressive stopping power. This is an excellent choice for hunters in wooded areas or those looking for serious knockdown potential.
Performance and Use: Capable of dispatching deer up to 250 yards, the .450 Bushmaster has more recoil than the .350 Legend but provides a flatter trajectory.
Popular Rifles: Look for it in the Ruger American Ranch, Bushmaster AR-15, and Mossberg Patriot—each provides versatility, especially if you plan to hunt in denser forests.
3. .360 Buckhammer
Introduced in 2023 by Remington, the .360 Buckhammer is designed specifically for whitetail in straight-wall-only states. This cartridge offers excellent ballistic performance, often compared to the classic .30-30 Winchester.
Performance and Use: Firing a 180- or 200-grain bullet, it has a flatter trajectory than most straight-wall options and works well at 200 yards. Its effectiveness and reasonable recoil make it a solid choice for newer cartridges.
Popular Rifles: The .360 Buckhammer is chambered in the Henry Lever Action X Model and Henry Single Shot, offering a classic aesthetic with modern performance.
4. .45-70 Government
One of the oldest straight-wall cartridges, the .45-70 Government has been around since the 1870s and remains a strong choice for hunters who favor tradition with raw power.
Performance and Use: Known for its large 405-grain bullets, the .45-70 is effective within 150 yards, with a reputation for deep penetration and high stopping power. This cartridge shines in thick brush where close-range shots are common.
Popular Rifles: The Marlin 1895, Henry Lever Action, and Ruger No.1 are all well-suited for the .45-70, each providing rugged durability and a nod to traditional hunting methods.
5. .444 Marlin
Developed in the 1960s, the .444 Marlin was designed for those who wanted a bit more range and power than the .44 Magnum. It’s known for its high velocity and heavier bullets.
Performance and Use: The .444 Marlin performs well up to 200 yards and is especially useful in denser woods, with less recoil than some heavier rounds like the .45-70.
Popular Rifles: The Marlin Model 336 and Henry Big Boy are both reliable choices for this round, providing a balance of weight, accuracy, and power for whitetail hunting.
Choosing the Right Straight-Wall Cartridge
For hunters in states with straight-wall cartridge requirements, selecting the right round depends on range, recoil tolerance, and hunting environment. The .350 Legend is excellent for beginners and those seeking minimal recoil, while the .450 Bushmaster and .45-70 Government offer serious power for thicker forests. The .360 Buckhammer and .444 Marlin fill in as versatile options for hunters seeking flat trajectories and manageable recoil.
As you prepare for deer season, consider checking inventory at Chesapeake Gunslingers to find rifles chambered for these cartridges, like the Ruger American or Henry Lever Action. These platforms provide both performance and availability, helping you stay ready and compliant with state hunting regulations.
RUGER GUNSITE SCOUT 450BM BL/WD 4+1
RUGER GUNSITE SCOUT 450BM BL/WD 4+1
FUSION XF PRO 9MM 4″ 15RD – CHROME OPTIC READY/GLOCK
FUSION XF PRO 9MM 4" 15RD - CHROME OPTIC READY/GLOCK MAGSCENTURY CANIK METE MC9 PRIME 9MM PISTOL 17RD
CENTURY CANIK METE MC9 PRIME 9MM PISTOL 17RD