The .400 Legend offers best-in-class ballistics for hunters seeking a heavy-hitting cartridge for use on deer, hogs, black bear and other big game
Introduction to the 400 Legend
What is the 400 Legend?
The 400 Legend is Winchester’s latest addition to the world of straight-wall cartridges, designed to deliver powerful performance in a compact package. It was engineered specifically for hunters in states with restrictions on bottleneck cartridges, offering a hard-hitting alternative with excellent ballistic performance.
Why It’s Gaining Popularity
With more hunters operating in straight-wall-only states, the 400 Legend arrives as a compelling upgrade over the 350 Legend. It packs more punch, greater versatility, and improved stopping power—all while being compatible with modern rifle platforms.
History and Development
Who Developed the 400 Legend?
Winchester Ammunition is the brains behind the 400 Legend, continuing their legacy of innovation following the success of the 350 Legend. The round was officially announced in 2023 and has since been gaining momentum.
Timeline of Release and Milestones
- 2023: 400 Legend announced at SHOT Show.
- Mid-2023: Production rifles and ammo hit the shelves.
- 2024: First full hunting season with 400 Legend yields positive feedback.
Comparison to Previous Winchester Innovations
Compared to earlier straight-wall options like the 350 Legend, the 400 Legend offers more stopping power, a larger bullet diameter, and maintains manageable recoil.
Technical Specifications
Cartridge Design
- Case Type: Straight-wall, rimless
- Bullet Diameter: .400 inches
- Case Length: 1.65 inches
- Overall Length: 2.26 inches (AR-15 compatible)
Ballistics and Performance
Velocity and Energy
- Typical Muzzle Velocity: 2,225 feet per second (fps)
- Muzzle Energy: Around 2,800 ft-lbs
- That’s more energy than a .30-30 and even rivals some .308 loads.
Trajectory and Accuracy
The 400 Legend has a relatively flat trajectory out to 200 yards, making it ideal for whitetail deer and medium game. With proper optics, it’s a reliable performer out to 250+ yards.
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Comparing 400 Legend to Other Rounds
400 Legend vs 350 Legend
- Power: 400 Legend wins with more energy and heavier bullets.
- Recoil: Slightly higher on the 400, but still manageable.
- Use Case: 350 Legend is great for smaller game and younger shooters; 400 Legend excels for big-bodied deer and hogs.
400 Legend vs 450 Bushmaster
- Recoil: 450 Bushmaster kicks harder.
- Cost: 400 Legend is generally more affordable.
- Trajectory: 400 Legend shoots flatter.
400 Legend vs .30-30 Winchester
- Modern Compatibility: 400 Legend is made for ARs and modern rifles.
- Ballistics: Comparable or better in many categories.
Ideal Use Cases
Hunting Applications
Perfect for whitetail, hogs, and even black bear in thick cover. It delivers excellent terminal performance while maintaining good accuracy.
Home Defense Viability
Though not its primary design, a 400 Legend AR setup with a short barrel could be a formidable home defense tool. It has stopping power without excessive penetration.
Recreational Shooting
Thanks to moderate recoil and availability of factory ammo, it’s also a great cartridge for weekend range sessions.
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Legal and Regional Considerations
Straight-Wall Cartridge Hunting States
The 400 Legend is legal in states like Ohio, Iowa, Michigan, and Indiana where straight-wall cartridges are mandated for deer hunting.
Compliance with Local Hunting Laws
Always check with your local DNR (Department of Natural Resources) to make sure the 400 Legend meets case length and bullet diameter requirements.
Firearms Chambered in 400 Legend
Bolt-Action Rifles
Several manufacturers, including Winchester and Savage, have launched bolt-action hunting rifles chambered in 400 Legend. These are lightweight and extremely accurate.
AR-Platform Options
Because the cartridge fits within AR-15 specs, it’s easy to find or build a 400 Legend upper. Think of it as turning your AR into a brush-busting hunting machine.
Custom Builds and Aftermarket Support
Barrels, bolts, and magazines are rapidly becoming available. Swapping calibers on an AR-15 is as easy as a Lego set for grown-ups.
Ammo Availability and Cost
Factory Loads
Winchester leads the charge with 215gr Power-Point and 190gr Bonded options. More brands are following suit.
Reloading the 400 Legend
Brass is becoming more accessible, and reloading opens the door to tailoring your loads. Ideal for those who like to squeeze every bit of performance out of their rifle.
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Pros and Cons of the 400 Legend
Advantages
- Legal in straight-wall-only zones
- Great energy for medium to large game
- Compatible with AR-15 platforms
- Manageable recoil
Drawbacks
- Limited ammo options (for now)
- Slightly pricier than older calibers
- Still gaining traction, so rifle selection is smaller
Expert and Community Feedback
What Hunters Are Saying
Hunters love the balance between recoil and terminal energy. Many say it feels like the 450 Bushmaster’s little brother—with better manners.
Range Reviews from Enthusiasts
On the range, shooters are impressed with accuracy and consistency. Plus, there’s a bit of pride in owning the newest cartridge on the block.
Future Outlook
Will the 400 Legend Stick Around?
All signs point to yes. With straight-wall hunting laws not going anywhere and performance that speaks for itself, the 400 Legend is carving out its niche.
What Manufacturers Might Adopt It Next?
Expect more AR brands, bolt gun makers, and ammo producers to jump on the 400 Legend bandwagon soon.
Conclusion
The 400 Legend isn’t just another hunting round—it’s a modern solution to old problems. It gives hunters in restricted states a hard-hitting, flat-shooting, low-recoil cartridge that fits the AR-15 and traditional bolt guns alike. Whether you’re chasing whitetails in Ohio or just looking for a versatile new toy at the range, the 400 Legend is absolutely worth considering.
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FAQs
Is the 400 Legend good for deer hunting?
Absolutely. It’s tailor-made for deer, especially in states that require straight-wall cartridges.
Can I use 400 Legend in my AR-15?
Yes, with the right upper, barrel, and magazine, it fits standard AR-15 platforms.
How far can I shoot accurately with 400 Legend?
Effective range is around 200–250 yards, depending on your rifle, optics, and ammo.
What’s the difference between 350 Legend and 400 Legend?
The 400 has a larger bullet and more energy, making it better for bigger game or longer shots.
Is 400 Legend suitable for beginners?
Yes. Its recoil is manageable, and it offers excellent performance without being intimidating.