When it comes to modern big-bore hunting cartridges, the .400 Legend and the .450 Bushmaster stand at the top of the list. Designed to meet the demands of hunters in straight-wall states while delivering knockdown power in the field, these two cartridges have quickly become favorites among serious outdoorsmen. In this deep dive, we’ll explore the ballistic performance, hunting applications, and availability of these impressive cartridges, along with some of the best build options from Moriarti Armaments to get you field-ready in style.
The .400 Legend is a relative newcomer, introduced by Winchester in 2023, and has already garnered a reputation for exceptional ballistic performance. With a straight-wall design tailored for states like Ohio, Indiana, and Iowa, it’s designed to offer hunters a cartridge that meets legal requirements while providing modern capabilities. The .400 Legend is built off the .350 Legend’s case design, necked up to accommodate a .400-inch diameter bullet. This delivers more energy on target and maintains a flatter trajectory than some older big-bore straight-wall cartridges.
On the other hand, the .450 Bushmaster has been around for over a decade, initially introduced by Bushmaster and Hornady in the mid-2000s. It was designed to bring heavy-hitting performance to the AR platform, offering a big-bore solution for close-range hunting of large game like deer, hogs, and even black bear. The .450 Bushmaster fires hefty .452-inch bullets at moderate velocities, delivering impressive stopping power at close to medium ranges.
Let’s start by examining the ballistic performance of these two contenders. The .400 Legend typically launches 215- to 225-grain bullets at around 2,300 to 2,400 feet per second, generating muzzle energies in the 2,400 to 2,600 foot-pound range. That translates to excellent energy retention and a trajectory that stays relatively flat out to 200 yards, making it an attractive option for hunters who find themselves taking shots at longer ranges in open fields.
The .450 Bushmaster, by contrast, is all about raw power at closer ranges. It typically fires 250- to 300-grain bullets at around 2,100 feet per second, resulting in muzzle energies of 2,900 to 3,200 foot-pounds. While the trajectory drops off more quickly than the .400 Legend, the sheer mass and momentum of the .450 Bushmaster bullets deliver devastating terminal performance on game animals within 150 yards. For brush country or thick timber hunting, that’s a big advantage.
But ballistics aren’t the only consideration. Let’s talk about real-world hunting performance. In states with straight-wall cartridge restrictions, both of these rounds are legal for use and fill an important niche. The .400 Legend’s flatter trajectory makes it easier for shooters to make precise hits at distances that might stretch the .450 Bushmaster a bit thin. Think of hunting from a treestand overlooking a bean field or a large clearing where a 200-yard shot isn’t out of the question. In those scenarios, the .400 Legend can provide the accuracy and energy retention to confidently drop a deer with authority.
The .450 Bushmaster, meanwhile, excels in close-range power, making it a go-to choice for hunters who like to stalk through thick brush or hunt from ground blinds in timber. Its big, heavy bullets punch through brush better than smaller-diameter bullets and offer tremendous terminal performance at ranges under 150 yards. In other words, if your hunting grounds are tight, the .450 Bushmaster is hard to beat.
Of course, a big part of the appeal for both of these cartridges is their compatibility with modern sporting rifles, particularly AR-15 and AR-10 platforms. At Moriarti Armaments, we specialize in crafting upper assemblies and complete rifle builds that let you take full advantage of these rounds. For example, our AR-450 Bushmaster 16" Upper Assembly with M-LOK Free Float Handguard is built for hunters who want maximum power and reliability in the field.
In contrast, the .400 Legend is still emerging in terms of factory upper assemblies and complete builds. However, as demand for this cartridge grows, you can be sure that Moriarti Armaments is there with precision-engineered parts and builds that maximize the .400 Legend’s potential. Keep an eye on our site for updates and new offerings as this exciting cartridge gains traction in the hunting world.
Let’s shift gears a bit and talk about recoil and shooting comfort, because that’s a big factor for many hunters. The .450 Bushmaster, with its big, heavy bullets, delivers more felt recoil than the .400 Legend. While manageable, especially with a well-built AR platform and a good muzzle brake, it’s definitely noticeable and can affect follow-up shots or long-range accuracy for some shooters.
The .400 Legend, in contrast, offers significantly less recoil while still delivering enough energy to drop deer-sized game with authority. That makes it an appealing choice for hunters who want a big-bore option without the punishment that can come with heavier calibers. For younger hunters, or those who spend long days in the field, that’s a real advantage.
Another area to consider is ammo availability and cost. The .450 Bushmaster has been around longer and enjoys a wider selection of factory loads from major manufacturers like Hornady, Winchester, and Remington. You’ll find everything from polymer-tipped hunting loads to basic soft points, giving you flexibility for different game and conditions. The .400 Legend is newer, so while ammo is becoming more available, it doesn’t yet have the same range of options. However, as demand grows, expect to see more factory offerings and reloading components coming online.
For reloaders, both cartridges offer interesting opportunities. The .450 Bushmaster can be loaded with a wide range of bullet weights, from 200-grain plinkers to 300-grain heavyweights, allowing for customization to your specific hunting or shooting needs. The .400 Legend, with its modern case design and efficient powder capacity, is also a promising candidate for reloaders looking to fine-tune their loads.
So, what’s the bottom line? If you’re hunting in tight cover, where shots are typically under 150 yards and you want maximum impact, the .450 Bushmaster remains a top choice. Its proven stopping power and wide ammo availability make it a trusted companion for big game. On the other hand, if you’re in more open country or want a round that’s easier on your shoulder while still offering excellent terminal performance, the .400 Legend is definitely worth a closer look.
At the end of the day, both of these cartridges bring serious big-bore energy to the AR platform, and each has its place depending on your hunting style and terrain. If you’re ready to add one of these powerhouses to your collection, Moriarti Armaments is your go-to source for high-quality upper assemblies, complete rifles, and all the parts you need to build a reliable, hard-hitting hunting rifle.
In conclusion, the .400 Legend vs. .450 Bushmaster debate isn’t about one cartridge being better than the other—it’s about choosing the right tool for the job. Whether you’re punching through thick brush with the .450 Bushmaster or reaching out to 200 yards with the .400 Legend, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the toughest game North America has to offer. And with Moriarti Armaments by your side, you’ll have the confidence of knowing your rifle is built to last, ready to deliver season after season.
