8 Best .350 Legend Uppers, Rifles & Barrels

The .350 Legend has become something of a superstar in the hunting world since Winchester unveiled it in 2019. This straight-walled cartridge has gained impressive traction, especially among hunters in states like Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana where hunting regulations limit rifle options to straight-walled cartridges only.

But what makes the .350 Legend stand out? It offers substantial power for medium game hunting without the punishing recoil of larger straight-walled options. Better yet, it fits perfectly into the AR-15 platform with minimal modifications needed.

As its popularity continues to grow, manufacturers have responded with an expanding selection of complete rifles, uppers, and barrels chambered in this versatile round. The market now offers options for everyone from budget-conscious beginners to precision-focused veterans.

In this guide, we'll break down the top 8 products across rifles, uppers, and barrels to help you find the perfect .350 Legend setup for your hunting or target shooting needs.

What is the .350 Legend Cartridge?

Winchester Repeating Arms introduced the .350 Legend in 2019 to fill a specific hunting need. This .35 caliber straight-walled cartridge targets hunters in states that ban bottlenecked rounds for deer hunting. The company also calls it 9x43mm in international markets.

AR-15 compatibility makes this cartridge stand out from other hunting rounds on the market today. It shares the same rim size as .223 Remington ammunition. Shooters only need a new barrel and magazines to convert their existing AR-15 lower receivers. This smart design helped it catch on quickly with the huge AR owner community.

Bullet weights range from light 125-grain options up to heavy 280-grain projectiles for different hunting situations. Hunters can take everything from coyotes to deer and wild hogs with proper bullet selection. It delivers more power than pistol cartridges like .45-70 but kicks much less than .450 Bushmaster.

Major ammo makers now produce hunting loads, target rounds, and quiet subsonic options for suppressors. This growing selection has made the cartridge popular among hunters in restricted states. Many shooters appreciate having a legal, effective option that shoots comfortably during long deer seasons.

Top Picks: 8 Best .350 Legend Uppers, Rifles & Barrels

1. Ruger American Ranch .350 Legend

The Ruger American Ranch represents perhaps the best value proposition in the .350 Legend world. This bolt-action rifle delivers exceptional accuracy at a price point that won't make your wallet cry. For hunters looking to get into the .350 Legend game without breaking the bank, it's hard to beat this combination of performance and affordability.

What separates this rifle from other budget options is its clever design choices. Ruger incorporated AR magazine compatibility, which means you can use common, affordable magazines rather than proprietary options. The flat dark earth synthetic stock may not win beauty contests, but it's durable, weather-resistant, and keeps weight to a minimum.

The heart of this rifle is its 16.38-inch cold hammer-forged barrel with a 1:16 twist rate. The barrel comes threaded (5/8"-24) for those who want to add a muzzle device or suppressor. Accuracy reports from owners consistently mention sub-MOA groups with quality ammunition. It's an impressive performance for a rifle in this price range.

For hunters in states with straight-wall cartridge restrictions, the American Ranch offers a lightweight, accurate platform that's ready for the field right out of the box. The included Picatinny rail makes mounting optics a breeze, and the Ruger Marksman Adjustable trigger breaks clean with minimal take-up. At just over 6 pounds unloaded, it's comfortable to carry on all-day hunts.

Price: $439

Specs

• Caliber: .350 Legend
• Action: Bolt-action
• Barrel Length: 16.38″
• Overall Length: 34.75″
• Weight: 6 lbs
• Capacity: 5-20 rounds

Features

• Uses widely available AR-15 magazines
• Integrated scope mount rail
• Threaded barrel for suppressor use
• Lightweight synthetic stock

Pros

• Affordable and accurate
• Compatible with AR mags
• Great for beginners

Cons

• Slower bolt-action rate of fire
• Basic stock ergonomics

2. Aero Precision M4E1 .350 Legend 20" Upper

Aero Precision has built a reputation for delivering quality AR components that balance performance and value, and their M4E1 20" .350 Legend upper continues this tradition. The extra barrel length squeezes additional velocity from the .350 Legend cartridge. You can expect around 100 FPS more than standard 16" barrels, which translates to flatter trajectories and more energy on target.

The magic of this upper lies in its full-length rifle gas system. Unlike carbine-length gas systems common on shorter barrels, the rifle-length system creates a smoother recoil impulse and more reliable cycling. This makes for a pleasant shooting experience, especially for those new to the platform or sensitive to recoil.

Aero ditched the traditional government profile barrel in favor of a more practical DMR profile. This design maintains rigidity where needed without unnecessary weight out front, creating better balance and handling characteristics. The barrel is made from 4150 CrMoV steel – the same material used in military-grade barrels – and undergoes high-pressure testing and magnetic particle inspection for quality assurance.

The free-floating Atlas One M-LOK handguard deserves special mention. Its minimalist design keeps weight down while providing ample attachment points for accessories. Despite looking like a premium billet component, the upper receiver is actually forged. It gives you the strength of forging with the aesthetics of a more expensive billet part. For anyone looking to maximize the potential of the .350 Legend cartridge, this upper delivers.

Price: $640

Specs

• Barrel Length: 20″
• Gas System: Rifle-length
• Barrel Material: 4150 CrMoV Steel
• Handguard: Atlas One M-LOK
• Feed Ramps: M4
• Construction: Forged Upper Receiver

Features

• Free-floating M-LOK handguard
• DMR profile barrel for better accuracy
• Full-length gas system for smoother recoil

Pros

• Boosted velocity from 20" barrel
• Excellent build quality
• Balanced for precision

Cons

• Slightly heavier and more unwieldy
• Not as compact as 16" options

3. Faxon Firearms Gunner .350 Legend Barrel

Faxon Firearms has become a go-to brand for quality AR barrels at reasonable prices, and their Gunner series in .350 Legend continues this tradition. Available in three lengths (12.5", 16", and 20"), these barrels offer options for every application from compact brush guns to long-range precision builds.

The standout feature is Faxon's Gunner profile. It is a hybrid design that's essentially a government profile at the chamber end and pencil profile toward the muzzle. This smart engineering moves weight back toward the receiver where it impacts handling less. For this reason it is one of the better-balanced rifles. For the 16" and especially the 20" versions, this weight distribution makes a noticeable difference in how the gun handles.

Manufactured from 4150 CMV steel, these barrels undergo stress relief to ensure dimensional stability and accuracy over time. The button rifling process creates a consistent bore with a 1:16 twist rate. It is ideal for stabilizing the range of bullet weights common in .350 Legend ammunition. The barrels come with a 11° target crown to protect the rifling and enhance accuracy.

The 12.5" option deserves special attention for those interested in AR pistol or short-barreled rifle builds. Despite the shorter length, the .350 Legend cartridge still delivers respectable ballistics from this barrel. It is an excellent option for a compact hunting or home defense setup. All three lengths come with 5/8x24 threading for muzzle devices or suppressors, and the black nitride finish provides excellent corrosion resistance.

Price: $175

Specs

• Barrel Lengths: 12.5", 16", 20"
• Material: 4150 CMV Steel
• Rifling: Button rifled
• Profile: Gunner

Features

• Lightweight and well-balanced
• Suitable for AR pistols or SBRs
• High compatibility and accuracy

Pros

• Versatile length options
• Excellent value
• Balanced for better handling

Cons

• Groups may open under sustained fire
• Gunner profile not ideal for all users

4. Smith & Wesson Model 350

The Smith & Wesson Model 350 represents something truly unique in the firearms world. It is a revolver chambered for a rifle cartridge. Built on S&W's massive X-Frame (the same used for the .500 S&W Magnum), this wheelgun brings the straight-walled .350 Legend into the handgun hunting arena with surprising effectiveness.

First impressions might lead you to expect punishing recoil, but the Model 350 manages the .350 Legend cartridge surprisingly well. The substantial 4.46-pound weight soaks up much of the kick, and the factory-ported barrel further tames muzzle rise. The result is a powerful handgun that remains controllable for most adult shooters, though it's certainly no target pistol.

The revolver sports a 7.5-inch barrel that helps squeeze more velocity from the cartridge and provides an excellent sight radius for precision shots. The adjustable rear sight pairs with a bright front sight for quick target acquisition, though many hunters will likely mount a red dot sight using the included optics rail. With a seven-round capacity, it offers more shots than most hunting revolvers.

For handgun hunters seeking a challenge or those in areas with handgun-only hunting zones, the Model 350 fills an interesting niche. It delivers rifle-caliber performance in a handgun platform. It is effective for deer and hogs within reasonable distances (typically under 75 yards). Moon clips come standard for faster reloading and proper extraction. Its is a necessity given the rimless design of the .350 Legend case.

Price: $1,264 

Specs

• Barrel Length: 7.5″
• Action: DA/SA
• Weight: 4.46 lbs
• Capacity: 7 rounds
• Frame: X-Frame

Features

• Ported barrel to reduce recoil
• Adjustable rear sight
• Accepts moon clips for quick reloads

Pros

• Powerful but manageable recoil
• Great sight radius
• Durable construction

Cons

• Expensive
• Limited ballistic performance compared to rifles

5. Shaw Barrels .350 Legend Upper

Shaw Barrels has built a reputation for precision-focused components, and their .350 Legend uppers continue this tradition. What sets these uppers apart is the level of customization available directly from the manufacturer. You can select barrel length (16" or 18"), fluting pattern, finish type, and even handguard style to create exactly the setup you want.

The heart of these uppers is Shaw's match-grade 416R stainless steel barrel with an HBAR profile. This heavier barrel profile delivers exceptional rigidity and heat dispersion, translating to consistent accuracy even during extended shooting sessions. For hunters who practice extensively before season or those who enjoy longer range sessions, this consistency is invaluable.

Each upper comes with a heat-treated bolt and carrier designed specifically for the .350 Legend cartridge. The components are engineered to work with standard carbine-length buffer systems. It makes them compatible with most AR-15 lowers without modification. The uppers ship is assembled and headspaced and it is ready to drop onto your existing lower receiver.

Perhaps the best feature is that these uppers deliver near-custom quality without the full custom price tag or wait time. You get many of the benefits of a truly custom build – precision machining, premium materials, and specific configuration options – without having to source individual components or pay a gunsmith for assembly. For the hunter or target shooter who knows exactly what they want, Shaw delivers.

Price: $657

Specs

• Barrel Lengths: 16" or 18"
• Barrel Material: 416R Stainless Steel
• Handguard Options: Customizable
• Gas System: Carbine-length
• Includes: Bolt carrier group and charging handle (optional)

Features

• Heat-treated bolt and carrier
• Works with standard carbine buffers
• Numerous aesthetic and performance options

Pros

• Fully customizable setup
• Premium materials
• Great for DIY enthusiasts

Cons

• Only available in carbine-length gas
• May involve wait time for custom build

6. CMMG Resolute Mk4 .350 Legend

The CMMG Resolute Mk4 in .350 Legend represents the premium end of AR-platform options for this cartridge. This isn't just a basic AR with a different barrel – it's a purpose-built system designed to maximize the potential of the .350 Legend cartridge. The Resolute series sits in CMMG's lineup as their mid-size carbine option, balancing maneuverability with ballistic performance.

CMMG built this rifle around their proprietary ZEROED accessory suite, which includes their Ripstock adjustable buttstock. This innovative stock allows you to preset your preferred length-of-pull and instantly deploy it to that exact position every time. It is a feature hunters appreciate when making quick shots in the field. The minimalist M-LOK handguard provides a sleek look and keeps weight manageable.

Ambidextrous controls come standard, such as the safety selector and magazine release. These make the rifle more user-friendly for left-handed shooters and add flexibility for right-handed shooters in awkward positions. The flat-faced trigger delivers a crisp and consistent break, which is critical for precise shots in the field. A dedicated compensator helps manage the mild recoil of the .350 Legend. It allows for quicker follow-up shots and better control. 

The Resolute Mk4 is available in magazine capacities from 5 to 20 rounds and comes in several color options. It's a premium choice for those who want a complete, high-quality rifle right out of the box without having to piece together components. For the hunter who values quality and wants a rifle that will last for decades, the additional investment over budget options pays dividends in performance and longevity.

Price: $1,088

Specs

• Barrel Length: 16.1″
• Action: Semi-auto, DI
• Weight: 6.1 lbs
• Overall Length: 32.5″
• Capacity: 5–20 rounds

Features

• M-LOK handguard
• Ambi controls (safety, mag release)
• ZEROED parts suite
• RipStock for quick length-of-pull adjustment

Pros

• Smooth and accurate
• Ambidextrous features
• Modern, modular design

Cons

• Higher price point
• Slightly heavier build

7. Ballistic Advantage .350 Legend Barrel

Ballistic Advantage has built a reputation for producing quality barrels at accessible price points, and their .350 Legend offerings continue this tradition. Available in 16", 18", and 20" lengths with different profile options, these barrels give builders flexibility without breaking the bank.

The standout feature is the QPQ (Quench-Polish-Quench) finish, also known as Melonite or Nitride. This surface treatment penetrates the barrel steel rather than just coating it, creating exceptional corrosion resistance and extending barrel life. For hunters who face harsh weather conditions or those who may not clean their rifles immediately after use, this durability is a significant advantage.

Each barrel comes with an extra-wide feed ramp extension coated in nickel boron. This slick, durable coating enhances feeding reliability with a variety of ammunition types. It is an important consideration for a newer cartridge like the .350 Legend where bullet profiles can vary significantly between manufacturers. The attention to this detail speaks to the practical, field-focused design philosophy.

The 16" Hanson profile barrel deserves special mention for its balanced approach to weight and rigidity. Unlike traditional government profiles that add weight where it's least beneficial for accuracy, the Hanson profile maintains stiffness without unnecessary bulk. 

Price: $197

Specs

• Barrel Lengths: 16", 18", 20"
• Material: 4150 CMV
• Finish: QPQ (Melonite)
• Feed Ramp: Extra-wide, nickel boron

Features

• SPR, Hanson, and DMR profiles
• Quality craftsmanship
• Reliable cycling

Pros

• Budget-friendly
• Excellent build for price
• Long-lasting finish

Cons

• No SBR or pistol-length options
• Mid-tier in accuracy

8. Shaw .350 Legend Match-Grade Barrel

For precision enthusiasts and competitive hunters, Shaw's dedicated match-grade barrels represent the premium end of the .350 Legend spectrum. Available in both 16" and 18" lengths, these stainless steel barrels are designed for absolute accuracy above all other considerations.

The 416R stainless steel construction offers superior resistance to heat erosion compared to chrome-moly barrels, maintaining accuracy over a longer service life. This makes them ideal for hunters who practice extensively before season or competition shooters who put high round counts through their firearms. The heat treatment process Shaw employs ensures dimensional stability even during rapid fire strings.

Optional fluting (straight or spiral) adds both form and function to these barrels. Beyond the distinctive aesthetic, fluting reduces weight and increases surface area for faster cooling between shots. For the hunter taking careful shots at the edge of the .350 Legend's effective range, these small advantages can make a meaningful difference in field performance.

The HBAR contour was chosen deliberately for its rigidity and vibration dampening properties. Though heavier than sporting profiles, the extra mass helps the barrel maintain consistency shot-to-shot and resist the point-of-impact shifts that can occur as barrels heat up. For the hunter or shooter who prioritizes absolute precision over portability, these barrels deliver match-grade performance in the straight-walled .350 Legend cartridge.

Price:$224

Specs

• Lengths: 16" and 18"
• Contour: HBAR
• Material: 416R Stainless Steel
• Fluting: Spiral or Straight (optional)

Features

• Match-grade construction
• Heat-treated for consistency
• Built for superior accuracy

Pros

• Highly accurate
• Long lifespan
• Available in fluted variants

Cons

• Heavy due to HBAR contour
• Higher price range

How to Choose the Right .350 Legend Setup

Several key factors will help you determine the ideal .350 Legend configuration. If you already own an AR-15 lower, consider pairing it with a dedicated upper or barrel rather than purchasing a complete rifle. For newcomers, however, a complete rifle is often the better choice, as it eliminates the hassle of assembly and potential compatibility issues.

Your intended use should guide your selection. Stand or blind hunters typically prioritize accuracy over weight, making heavy barrel options a smart choice. In contrast, backcountry hunters who cover long distances on foot will appreciate lighter setups like the Ruger American Ranch for easier carry and handling.

Budget is another critical factor. Entry level options, such as the Ruger American Ranch or barrels from Ballistic Advantage, offer solid performance without a steep price tag. For those seeking premium features and enhanced accuracy, higher end options like the CMMG Resolute or Shaw match grade barrels deliver excellent results at a higher cost.

Recoil sensitivity is also worth considering. While the .350 Legend is known for its mild recoil, semi-automatic platforms like the CMMG Resolute can further reduce felt recoil compared to bolt action rifles, making them a good option for recoil sensitive shooters.

Final Thoughts

The .350 Legend carved out a place in the hunting world by solving a real problem. In states that require straight-walled cartridges, hunters finally have a modern, effective option that doesn’t punish the shoulder. Its compatibility with America’s favorite rifle platform, the AR-15, only adds to its appeal.

What makes the .350 Legend stand out is its versatility. It runs smoothly in everything from affordable bolt-action rifles to premium AR builds, and even that eye-catching S&W revolver. With an ever-growing selection of ammo, it’s equally suited for target shooting and whitetail deer hunts.

AR-15 owners especially appreciate how easy it is to swap uppers or barrels, transforming a platform often dismissed as “not for hunting” into a capable, legal deer rifle in straight-wall states.

Whether you prefer the precision of a bolt action, the speed of an AR, or the challenge of a revolver, the .350 Legend offers options that simply didn’t exist a few years ago. Hunters across America have every reason to celebrate this game changing cartridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the .350 Legend legal in states with straight-walled cartridge restrictions?

Engineers designed the .350 Legend as a straight-walled cartridge from the start. It has no neck or shoulder like bottlenecked cartridges do. States like Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana only allow straight-walled cartridges in certain hunting zones.

How does the .350 Legend compare to other straight-walled hunting cartridges like .450 Bushmaster?

The .350 Legend kicks much less than the .450 Bushmaster but still drops deer cleanly within 200 yards. It makes about 1,800 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle compared to roughly 2,700 ft-lbs from .450 Bushmaster. You'll feel about 40% less recoil with the .350 Legend.

What modifications are needed to make a standard AR-15 shoot .350 Legend?

Converting a standard AR-15 to .350 Legend takes very few changes. You need a .350 Legend barrel or complete upper assembly. Dedicated .350 Legend magazines work best, though you can modify standard AR magazines.

What game animals can the .350 Legend effectively harvest?

The .350 Legend works perfectly on medium-sized game including whitetail deer, feral hogs, and black bear up to about 200 yards. Proper bullet choice makes it great for coyotes and other predators too.

What's the ideal barrel length for a .350 Legend rifle?

Most shooters find 16-18 inches works best for .350 Legend barrels. This length balances speed, weight, and handling perfectly. A 16-inch barrel pushes 180-grain bullets at about 2,200 fps.

Can I use my .350 Legend rifle with a suppressor?

The .350 Legend works great with suppressors. All the barrels and complete rifles we covered come with threaded muzzles, typically 5/8×24 threading, ready for suppressor attachment.