How Does .35 Whelen Perform In Wet Conditions?

Reliability in Wet Conditions

The .35 Whelen is a versatile cartridge suitable for various hunting scenarios, including wet conditions. Its large case capacity and moderate velocity allow it to maintain its integrity in wet environments. The cartridge’s performance is less affected by rain or snow compared to smaller cartridges. However, excessive moisture can cause the rifle’s action to jam, so regular cleaning is essential.

Bullet Choice for Wet Conditions

For hunting in wet conditions, it’s essential to choose a bullet with a high sectional density (SD) and a flat profile to help it penetrate and expand consistently. The 225-grain Speer Grand Slam bullet is an excellent choice for hunting elk in wet conditions, with an SD of 0.255 and a flat profile that helps it maintain its weight and accuracy. The bullet’s copper jacket also helps to resist corrosion from water and salt.

Hunting Elk in Wet Conditions

When hunting elk in wet conditions, it’s crucial to use a high-quality scope with a waterproof coating and a wide angle of view to help track the animal in low-light conditions. A 4-12x scope with a 40mm objective lens is an excellent choice for this purpose, providing a wide field of view and excellent low-light performance. Additionally, using a rifle with a heavy barrel and a good trigger can help to maintain accuracy and control in wet conditions.