Quick Look

The .35 Whelen cartridge was developed in the early 1920s by Colonel Townsend Whelen, adapting the .30-06 Springfield case. It offers a powerful, versatile big-game hunting round with strong stopping power. Today, it remains a popular choice among hunters seeking a reliable large-caliber cartridge.

Why It's a Top Choice

• Versatile for large and medium game hunting
• Compatible with .30-06 Springfield rifles after rebarreling
• Strong knockdown power with moderate recoil
• Good sectional density for deep penetration
• Widely supported by quality factory and handloading options

Key Variants

.35 Whelen Wildcat

Popular for custom rifles, offering compatibility with various rifle actions and ammo choices.

.35 Whelen Ackley Improved

Enhanced case design for higher velocity and energy, favored by precision hunters.

Competitor Comparison Table

Best Use Cases

• Big-game hunting including deer and elk
• Medium to large game hunting
• Hunting in areas requiring standard rifle action
• Range practice with powerful cartridges
• Collectors interested in classic cartridges

FAQs

Can I use .35 Whelen in my .30-06 rifle?

No, standard .30-06 rifles require rebarreling to safely chamber .35 Whelen cartridges due to different bullet diameters.

What is the typical bullet weight for .35 Whelen?

Typical bullet weights range from 180 to 250 grains, balancing penetration and energy for big-game hunting.

How does .35 Whelen compare to .30-06 Springfield?

.35 Whelen offers larger diameter bullets with greater stopping power but similar case length and action requirements.