Looking for a rifle for hunting deer, moose, bear in Maine

deernut07 · 01-18-2009, 09:44 AM

I am moving up to Maine for college and get to hunt the areas around campus for deer, beer, and moose. I am looking to purchase a rifle that would take all 3 species but haven't a clue as to what I should get. What should I look into? I was thinking a Marlin 1895 in .45/70 or a Remington 700 in .30-06...What do you think? Input is greatly appreciated!

Edcyclopedia · 01-18-2009, 10:32 AM

Most of Maine is BIG woods and thick...

I would go with the tried and true Rem .30-06, either pump or semi.
Keep in mind you can dial this gun in for a multitude of game with a huge selection of loads that are available over the counter.
The 45/70 is just a big ass load!
When I hunt this style woods I use the iron sights on my Browning BAR .30-06 with either a 180 or 220 grain bullet,
knocks them off their hooves

What state are you moving from?

deernut07 · 01-18-2009, 11:04 AM

Thanks for the help!

Im moving up to Maine from Connecticut, down here all I use is my 870 slug gun and bow,no real room for rifles where I live, hence why I am in the market for a rifle!

Thanks again for the help!

RugerM77.270 · 01-18-2009, 07:56 PM

30-06

country1 · 01-19-2009, 09:40 PM

Quote:

ORIGINAL: RugerM77.270

30-06

I agree on the 30-06. IMO, I would not use a heavier bullet than a good165 on deer for the 30-06. A 180 will work, but not as effective/efficient.

excalibur43 · 01-19-2009, 10:34 PM

Either one would be a good choice. I prefer a 12 gauge with slugs for hunting Blackies over bait.

Summitsitter · 01-20-2009, 03:59 AM

My first response would be the .30-06 - plenty of knockdown power altough overkill on deer

RaghornHS · 01-20-2009, 05:00 AM

I disagree with Summitsitter....30-06 will be fine for deer...I used one all my life back in Wisconsin. Skip the .45/70...

Champlain Islander · 01-20-2009, 02:57 PM

30-06 for sure. Hunt deer with a 150 to 165 pill and use the 180 on moose and bear.

AK Jeff · 01-20-2009, 07:33 PM

Quote:

ORIGINAL: deernut07

I am moving up to Maine for college and get to hunt the areas around campus for deer, beer, and moose.

If you're shooting beer just make sure that they're empty first!!!

I have a friend that grew up hunting in Maine and he said the shots are close, close, close!!! If I'm not mistaken Maine moose permits are all given out in a drawing so you'll be mostly hunting deer and bear. I'd probably go with a 30-30 carbine myself. Great for deer and bear and if you do get drawn for moose it's plenty of medicine for them at close range.

AK Jeff