elk gun calibers

jdhmonsterbucks · 08-31-2011, 05:07 PM

Guys going elk hunting in November and can't afford another gun. I have a 270 and a 308 both of which I am very accurate with. They are both going but which do I use....

Colorado Luckydog · 08-31-2011, 05:37 PM

The 308 with a 165 or a 180 grain quality bullet is good elk medicine. It will be a much better choice than the 270. This is going to start a stupid debate on shot placement but no matter what anyone says, the 308 is a better choice.

THEMAKKER13 · 08-31-2011, 05:44 PM

I agree with using the .308.

Murdy · 08-31-2011, 05:46 PM

"This is going to start a stupid debate on shot placement"
Hilarious, but probably correct.
.308 seems a no brainer to me.

homers brother · 08-31-2011, 05:58 PM

Either one is capable of bringing down an elk, and I know plenty of guys who swear by either. I'll echo 180 grain for the .308, 150 for the .270. Boiler room hits are a must, elk are tough and can cover quite a bit of terrain when hit marginally - be ready for a hike (yes, I suppose that does imply that shot placement is important?).

Sheridan · 08-31-2011, 06:10 PM

I'd want a well constructed bullet from a .308, which can handle a heavier bullet than the .270.

Plus restrict my shots to under 300 yards.

I'll include this link, you may find it of interest.

http://elkhunter2.tripod.com/

motovet144 · 08-31-2011, 06:25 PM

I have shot elk with both calibers and i believe the 308 is one of the most underrated calibers there is period! When used with a good bullet and like sheridan said under 300 yards and good shot placement its meat in the freezer baby!

bigbulls · 08-31-2011, 06:39 PM

The elk aren't going to give a rip which one you use and I doubt you will ever realize any difference in the two in the woods if you get a shot. Both are effective elk cartridges when used within their limits.... which are pretty much the same between the two. I would have no problem using either one on elk at 400+- yards.

Colorado Luckydog · 08-31-2011, 06:41 PM

No reason to limit yourself to 300 yard shots with a 308, unless you are the reason. The 308 has MUCH better capabilities than 300 yards.

jdhmonsterbucks · 08-31-2011, 06:48 PM

Thanks guys I was leaning towards the 308 with the 180 grain bullets. It don't hurt to have extra advice and opinions. Thanks all!