The firearm and hunting world is always abuzz when a new firearm caliber is announced. However, the excitement is usually quickly tempered by the question: What guns will shoot the new cartridge? Such was the case with the recent introduction of the straight-walled Winchester 400 Legend, which was given early testing in a Winchester Repeating Arms XPR prototype by NRA Women contributor Melissa Bachman.
But now we can definitively answer with less ambiguity the “what gun” question, as Savage Arms has announced it has partnered with Winchester Ammunition to bring deer hunters several rifles chambered in 400 Legend in time for 2023 hunting seasons. The new hard-hitting, yet mildly recoiling, caliber means new opportunities for deer hunters across the country. For starters, Savage will launch the 400 Legend in the 110 Apex Hunter XP, 110 Hog Hunter and Axis II XP—but will also chamber it in another 11 models in 2023.
Straight-walled cartridges, and especially the 400 Legend’s predecessor, the 350 Legend, were created for states like Ohio and Michigan and others in which hunters were originally limited to shotgun slug or historically limited rifle caliber options. Due to their popularity, straight-wall options have gained traction outside of traditional shotgun slug areas as well. Savage has responded by adding it to so many rifles in its lineup.
"Savage is dedicated to chambering the best calibers for hunters and shooters," said Beth Shimanski, director of marketing at Savage Arms. "The 400 Legend brings ballistic advances and advantages—and when combined with our extensive rifle lineup—the benefits only increase. Deer hunters are in for a treat this fall as we'll have 14 options available in plenty of time for this season."
The numbers behind the 400 Legend are impressive. This straight-walled cartridge offers 100 percent more energy than a 12-gauge slug, with 55 percent less felt recoil. When compared to its rifle counterparts and predecessors, the 400 Legend brings the same amount of energy as the 450 Bushmaster, with a reduction in felt recoil of 20 percent. Finally—the 400 Legend offers 25 percent more energy than the 350 Legend for more penetration and improved terminal ballistics.
More information on the full lineup of Savage rifles chambered in 400 Legend, as well as when they will be available, can be found at savagearms.com. To learn more about the cartridge, its development and the full story behind it all, go to winchester.com.
