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Why the 35 Remington (Introduced in 1906) Is STILL Popular Today

The .35 Remington, introduced in 1906, might seem like a relic of a bygone era. Yet, over a century later, it remains a beloved cartridge for hunters and shooting enthusiasts. Originally designed for the Remington Model 8 autoloading rifle, it quickly earned a reputation as a reliable and versatile round, especially in the dense woods of North America. While modern cartridges have flooded the market, the .35 Remington continues to hold its ground, proving that its legacy is far from obsolete.

Born for the Hunt

Born for the Hunt
Image Credit: Wikipedia

When the .35 Remington was introduced, it was paired with the innovative Model 8 rifle, a semi-automatic design created by John Browning. This combination offered hunters rapid follow-up shots and a compact, powerful round that excelled in brushy terrain. The .35 Remington’s relatively large bullet diameter and moderate velocity made it ideal for hunting whitetail deer, black bear, and even elk at closer ranges. Its effectiveness in woodland settings earned it a loyal following among hunters, especially in the eastern United States.

The Competitor to Beat: The .30-30 Winchester

The Competitor to Beat The .30 30 Winchester
Image Credit: Winchester

From the start, the .35 Remington faced stiff competition from the .30-30 Winchester. The two cartridges share similar ballistics at shorter ranges, but the .35’s larger bullet diameter and heavier projectile give it an edge in stopping power. For many hunters, this meant fewer tracking jobs after a well-placed shot. Despite this advantage, the .30-30’s widespread availability and slightly flatter trajectory at longer distances kept it as the more popular choice.

The .35 Remington in Lever Actions

The .35 Remington in Lever Actions
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One of the .35 Remington’s claims to fame was its availability in lever-action rifles like the Marlin 336. This pairing was a match made in heaven for hunters in thick woods, where quick handling and reliable cycling were crucial. Lever-action enthusiasts appreciated the .35’s balance of power and recoil, making it manageable yet effective. Today, Henry and Marlin are reviving interest in the .35 Remington by chambering it in their modern lever-action offerings, giving this classic cartridge a new lease on life.

A Versatile Performer

A Versatile Performer
Image Credit: Wikipedia

The .35 Remington’s flexibility extends beyond hunting. It can accommodate a range of bullet weights, from 150 grains for smaller game to 220 grains for larger or more dangerous animals. The 200-grain load, however, has been the go-to choice for decades. Its moderate velocity minimizes meat damage while maintaining enough energy to penetrate deeply, ensuring clean and ethical kills.

Ballistics and Energy: More Than Meets the Eye

Ballistics and Energy More Than Meets the Eye
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When comparing ballistics, the .35 Remington holds its own against newer cartridges like the .350 Legend. Both rounds achieve similar muzzle velocities, but the .35’s heavier bullets often carry more energy at typical hunting ranges. While it isn’t designed for long-distance shooting, the .35 excels in its intended role as a medium-range cartridge, with sufficient energy to handle game up to 150 or 200 yards.

Competition from Modern Rounds

Competition from Modern Rounds
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The introduction of cartridges like the .358 Winchester and .350 Legend has created stiff competition for the .35 Remington. These modern rounds offer better ballistic coefficients and higher chamber pressures, allowing them to perform well at longer ranges. However, many hunters still prefer the classic appeal and proven track record of the .35, particularly for hunting in heavily wooded areas where long-range performance isn’t a priority.

Nostalgia Meets Practicality

Nostalgia Meets Practicality
Image Credit: Winchester

For many hunters, the .35 Remington is more than just a cartridge – it’s a connection to tradition. Generations of hunters have relied on this round to put food on the table, creating a legacy that continues to resonate today. The cartridge’s history, coupled with its effectiveness, makes it a sentimental favorite for those who appreciate vintage firearms and the stories they tell.

Limited Availability but Growing Interest

Limited Availability but Growing Interest
Image Credit: Hornady

One challenge for .35 Remington enthusiasts is finding ammunition. The cartridge’s popularity declined in the latter half of the 20th century as newer designs flooded the market. However, recent efforts by manufacturers like Henry and Marlin to reintroduce rifles chambered in .35 Remington have sparked renewed interest, potentially paving the way for more widespread availability of ammunition.

A Unique Role in Today’s Market

A Unique Role in Today’s Market
Image Credit: Winchester

While the .35 Remington isn’t as universally recognized as some of its competitors, it fills a niche that few modern cartridges can match. Its combination of moderate recoil, reliable performance, and versatility makes it an excellent choice for hunters who value tradition and practicality. Whether paired with a vintage Model 8 or a brand-new lever-action rifle, the .35 Remington remains a capable and dependable choice.

The Future of the .35 Remington

The Future of the .35 Remington
Image Credit: Remington

As more shooters rediscover the charm of classic cartridges, the .35 Remington may experience a resurgence. Its suitability for lever-action rifles, combined with a growing interest in retro-style hunting gear, makes it an appealing option for a new generation of hunters. While it may never rival the .30-30 Winchester in popularity, the .35 Remington has carved out a loyal following that isn’t likely to fade anytime soon.

Why the .35 Remington Still Matters

Why the .35 Remington Still Matters
Image Credit: Wikipedia

The .35 Remington’s enduring relevance lies in its balance of power, versatility, and historical significance. It may not dominate the hunting scene as it once did, but for those who appreciate its legacy and performance, it’s an irreplaceable part of their hunting tradition. In a world dominated by high-velocity magnums and sleek, modern cartridges, the .35 Remington stands as a testament to the enduring value of a well-designed classic.