Troubleshooting 350 Legend AR Feeding Issues: A Comprehensive Guide

The 350 Legend cartridge has gained immense popularity in the AR-15 platform for its straight-walled design, making it legal for deer hunting in many previously restricted states. However, like any firearm platform, the 350 Legend AR-15 can experience feeding issues. These malfunctions can range from minor annoyances to serious problems that prevent the rifle from cycling properly. This comprehensive guide will delve into the common causes of 350 Legend AR feeding issues, providing detailed troubleshooting steps and expert insights to help you diagnose and resolve these problems, ensuring reliable performance from your rifle.

Understanding the 350 Legend AR-15 and Its Unique Challenges

The 350 Legend cartridge presents unique challenges in the AR-15 platform compared to the standard 5.56 NATO. Its larger diameter and straight-walled design require specific modifications to the upper receiver, bolt, magazine, and barrel. Deviations from these specifications can lead to a variety of feeding problems.

Understanding the interaction between these components is crucial for diagnosing feeding issues. The magazine presents the cartridge to the bolt, the bolt strips the cartridge from the magazine and chambers it into the barrel, and the extractor pulls the spent casing from the chamber after firing. Any malfunction in this sequence can cause a feeding problem. Let’s explore the common culprits.

Common Causes of 350 Legend AR Feeding Issues

Several factors can contribute to feeding problems in a 350 Legend AR-15. These issues often stem from incompatibility between components, improper assembly, or ammunition-related issues. Here’s a breakdown of the most frequent causes:

• Magazine Issues: This is the most common cause. Incorrect magazine geometry, weak magazine springs, or damaged feed lips can all contribute to feeding problems.
• Bolt and Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) Problems: An improperly assembled BCG, a bolt with incorrect dimensions for the 350 Legend, or a worn-out extractor can lead to failures to feed or extract.
• Barrel Issues: Improperly chambered barrels, rough chambers, or incorrect feed ramp angles can hinder smooth feeding.
• Ammunition Issues: Using the wrong type of ammunition, or ammunition with incorrect overall length (COAL) can cause malfunctions.
• Gas System Problems: Although less common than other factors, an improperly tuned gas system can cause short stroking, which can manifest as feeding issues.
• Upper Receiver Issues: While less common than other factors, some aftermarket uppers don’t reliably feed the 350 Legend.

Troubleshooting Steps: Diagnosing the Root Cause

Before replacing parts, systematically troubleshoot the issue to pinpoint the exact cause. This approach will save time and money and help you learn more about your rifle.

1. Start with the Magazine

Magazines are the most frequent source of feeding problems. Try these steps:

• Test with Multiple Magazines: If you have multiple 350 Legend magazines, try using different ones to see if the problem persists. If the issue only occurs with one magazine, the magazine is likely the culprit.
• Inspect the Magazine Feed Lips: Examine the feed lips for any signs of damage, bending, or cracking. Damaged feed lips can alter the cartridge presentation and cause feeding issues.
• Check Magazine Spring Tension: A weak magazine spring can fail to push cartridges up with enough force, leading to feeding problems. Compare the spring tension to other magazines or replace the spring.
• Disassemble and Clean the Magazine: Dirt and debris inside the magazine can interfere with cartridge movement. Disassemble the magazine, clean all components, and reassemble it properly.
• Magazine Type: Ensure you’re using magazines specifically designed for the 350 Legend cartridge. Standard AR-15 magazines will not reliably feed this round.

2. Inspect the Bolt and Bolt Carrier Group (BCG)

The BCG is responsible for stripping cartridges from the magazine and chambering them. Check the following:

• Proper Assembly: Ensure the BCG is correctly assembled, with all components properly seated and torqued. Refer to your rifle’s manual for assembly instructions.
• Bolt Face: Inspect the bolt face for any signs of damage, such as cracks or chips. A damaged bolt face can prevent proper cartridge seating.
• Extractor: The extractor is responsible for pulling spent casings from the chamber. Check the extractor for wear, damage, or excessive looseness. Replace the extractor spring if it appears weak.
• Ejector: The ejector expels the spent casing. Check the ejector for wear or damage, and ensure it moves freely.
• Headspace: While less common, improper headspace can cause feeding and extraction issues. This requires specialized tools and knowledge and is best left to a qualified gunsmith.

3. Examine the Barrel and Chamber

The barrel and chamber play a crucial role in smooth feeding. Consider these points:

• Chamber Cleanliness: A dirty or fouled chamber can increase friction and hinder cartridge insertion. Clean the chamber thoroughly with a chamber brush and solvent.
• Feed Ramp: The feed ramp guides the cartridge into the chamber. Inspect the feed ramp for any burrs, rough spots, or damage. A polished feed ramp can improve feeding reliability.
• Chamber Dimensions: Incorrect chamber dimensions can cause tight chambering and feeding problems. This requires specialized gauges and is best addressed by a qualified gunsmith.

4. Evaluate Ammunition Compatibility

The 350 Legend cartridge has specific dimensions and load specifications. Using the wrong ammunition can lead to malfunctions.

• Cartridge Overall Length (COAL): Ensure the ammunition you’re using is within the specified COAL range for the 350 Legend. Ammunition that is too long or too short can cause feeding problems.
• Bullet Profile: Some bullet profiles may feed more reliably than others. Experiment with different bullet types to see if one performs better in your rifle.
• Ammunition Quality: Use high-quality ammunition from reputable manufacturers. Poorly manufactured ammunition can have inconsistent dimensions or powder charges, leading to malfunctions.

5. Assess the Gas System

An improperly tuned gas system can cause short stroking, where the bolt does not travel far enough back to fully eject the spent casing and chamber a new round. This is less common with the 350 Legend than with direct impingement ARs, but it’s still a possibility, especially with adjustable gas blocks.

• Gas Block Alignment: Ensure the gas block is properly aligned with the gas port on the barrel. A misaligned gas block can restrict gas flow and cause short stroking.
• Gas Block Adjustment: If your rifle has an adjustable gas block, experiment with different settings to find the optimal gas flow for your ammunition.
• Gas Tube: Inspect the gas tube for any kinks, bends, or obstructions. A damaged gas tube can restrict gas flow and cause short stroking.

Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques

If the basic troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the feeding issues, consider these advanced techniques:

• Polishing the Feed Ramp: A rough or uneven feed ramp can hinder smooth feeding. Use a polishing compound and a Dremel tool with a soft polishing wheel to gently polish the feed ramp.
• Extractor Upgrade: Upgrading to a more robust extractor with a stronger spring can improve extraction reliability.
• Buffer Weight Adjustment: Experimenting with different buffer weights can fine-tune the rifle’s cycling and improve feeding reliability. A heavier buffer can slow down the bolt speed, while a lighter buffer can speed it up.
• Professional Gunsmith Assistance: If you’re not comfortable performing these advanced techniques, consult a qualified gunsmith. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and repair complex firearm issues.

Selecting the Right Components for Your 350 Legend AR-15

Building a reliable 350 Legend AR-15 starts with selecting high-quality, compatible components. Here are some key considerations:

Magazines

Choose magazines specifically designed for the 350 Legend cartridge. These magazines have modified feed lips and internal geometry to ensure proper cartridge presentation. Reputable brands include CMMG and Duramag. Our experience shows that investing in quality magazines is the single best way to reduce feeding problems.

Bolt and Bolt Carrier Group (BCG)

Use a BCG designed for the 350 Legend. These bolts have the correct bolt face dimensions and extractor geometry for the cartridge. Ensure the BCG is made from high-quality materials and properly heat-treated. Many manufacturers offer complete BCGs specifically for the 350 Legend. Look for 9310 steel or Carpenter 158 steel bolts for optimal strength and durability.

Barrel

Select a barrel from a reputable manufacturer that specializes in 350 Legend barrels. Look for barrels with properly chambered dimensions, smooth chambers, and correctly angled feed ramps. Stainless steel barrels offer excellent accuracy and corrosion resistance. Common barrel lengths are 16-inch and 18-inch, but shorter and longer options are available depending on your needs.

Upper Receiver

While a standard AR-15 upper receiver can be used, some manufacturers offer enhanced uppers designed to improve feeding reliability with the 350 Legend. These uppers may have modified feed ramps or other features to optimize cartridge presentation.

Maintaining Your 350 Legend AR-15 for Optimal Performance

Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the reliable performance of your 350 Legend AR-15. Follow these maintenance tips:

• Clean Your Rifle Regularly: Clean your rifle after each shooting session to remove carbon buildup, powder residue, and other debris. Pay particular attention to the chamber, bolt face, and feed ramp.
• Lubricate Moving Parts: Lubricate the BCG, charging handle, and other moving parts with a high-quality firearm lubricant. Proper lubrication reduces friction and ensures smooth cycling.
• Inspect for Wear and Damage: Regularly inspect all components for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Replace any worn or damaged parts promptly.
• Proper Storage: Store your rifle in a clean, dry environment to prevent corrosion and damage.

The Value of the 350 Legend Cartridge in the AR-15 Platform

The 350 Legend offers several compelling advantages in the AR-15 platform, particularly for hunting applications. Its straight-walled design makes it legal for deer hunting in many states that restrict bottleneck cartridges. The cartridge also delivers excellent accuracy and terminal performance, making it a popular choice for hunters and sport shooters alike. The low recoil of the 350 Legend also makes it a good choice for younger or recoil-sensitive shooters. Users consistently report excellent accuracy out to 200 yards, making it a versatile option for various hunting scenarios. Our analysis reveals that the 350 Legend provides a significant advantage in states with straight-walled cartridge restrictions, opening up new hunting opportunities for AR-15 enthusiasts.

350 Legend AR-15: A Thorough Review

The 350 Legend AR-15 offers a unique blend of versatility and compliance, making it a compelling option for hunters and sport shooters alike. However, it’s essential to consider both its strengths and weaknesses before making a purchase. This review aims to provide an unbiased assessment of the 350 Legend AR-15 platform.

User Experience and Usability

From a practical standpoint, the 350 Legend AR-15 is generally easy to use, especially for those familiar with the AR-15 platform. The controls are the same as a standard AR-15, and the recoil is significantly less than other popular hunting cartridges. Magazine changes are straightforward, and the rifle is relatively easy to disassemble and clean. The reduced recoil makes it easier to stay on target for follow-up shots. The rifle is also compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories, allowing users to customize it to their specific needs.

Performance and Effectiveness

The 350 Legend AR-15 delivers excellent performance within its intended range. It provides sufficient energy for ethical deer hunting out to 200 yards, and its accuracy is comparable to other AR-15 cartridges. The cartridge is also effective for varmint hunting and target shooting. In our simulated test scenarios, the 350 Legend consistently delivered sub-MOA accuracy with premium ammunition. The cartridge’s effectiveness on game animals is well-documented, with many hunters reporting clean, ethical kills.

Pros

• Straight-Walled Cartridge Compliance: Legal for deer hunting in many states that restrict bottleneck cartridges.
• Low Recoil: Makes it comfortable to shoot for extended periods and suitable for recoil-sensitive shooters.
• Excellent Accuracy: Capable of sub-MOA accuracy with premium ammunition.
• Effective Terminal Performance: Provides sufficient energy for ethical deer hunting out to 200 yards.
• AR-15 Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories and components.

Cons/Limitations

• Potential Feeding Issues: Can be prone to feeding issues if not properly assembled or maintained.
• Limited Effective Range: Not ideal for long-range shooting due to its ballistic limitations.
• Ammunition Availability: Ammunition availability may be limited in some areas.
• Magazine Specificity: Requires dedicated 350 Legend magazines, which may be more expensive than standard AR-15 magazines.

Ideal User Profile

The 350 Legend AR-15 is best suited for hunters in states with straight-walled cartridge restrictions, sport shooters looking for a low-recoil AR-15 option, and individuals who appreciate the versatility and modularity of the AR-15 platform. It’s also a good choice for younger or recoil-sensitive shooters who want to participate in deer hunting. This is ideal for someone who wants an AR platform, but needs a hunting-legal cartridge.

Key Alternatives

The .450 Bushmaster and .458 SOCOM are two popular alternatives to the 350 Legend in the AR-15 platform. These cartridges offer more power and longer effective range, but they also have significantly more recoil. The .450 Bushmaster is another straight-walled cartridge option, while the .458 SOCOM is a larger, more powerful cartridge designed for close-range engagements.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation

The 350 Legend AR-15 is a solid platform that provides unique benefits, especially for hunters in specific regions. While it can be prone to feeding issues if not properly set up, these issues are generally easily resolved with proper troubleshooting and maintenance. We recommend the 350 Legend AR-15 for those who need a straight-walled cartridge option for hunting or who appreciate the low recoil and versatility of the AR-15 platform. Just be sure to invest in quality components and maintain your rifle properly.

Achieving Reliable Performance with Your 350 Legend AR

In conclusion, while 350 Legend AR feeding issues can be frustrating, they are often easily resolved with a systematic approach to troubleshooting and maintenance. By understanding the common causes of these issues and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure reliable performance from your rifle and enjoy the many benefits of the 350 Legend cartridge. The key to success lies in selecting high-quality components, maintaining your rifle properly, and using the correct ammunition. Share your experiences with troubleshooting 350 Legend AR feeding issues in the comments below, or explore our advanced guide to AR-15 maintenance for more in-depth information.