Hey guys, i'm new to this place, but i thought I'd throw a topic up to talk about. I was wondering if my 7mm-08 would be gun enough to take elk hunting and what bullets you would use if I were use it. Also would you use it or a 30-06 (I have both). If I get the chance to go I would feel bad shooting such an awesome creature with a gun as ugly as my synthetic stocked 06
welcome shepdogwv!!!!, i would think that either would handle the job fine, as far as the bullets, i am partial to nosler partitions, i have a couple of 06's and have a 7mm-08, i like both and would not hesitate to use either.... good luck on the elk hunt, and jump on in the other forums, bunch of good guys here
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I would also say Barnes TSX if you use the 7mm-08. You will want a bullet that has a high Ballistic Coefficient and high Retained Weight. The Barnes bullets offer both. I am not sure if you can get a factory loaded ammo with that bullet however. I would use the 140 or better yet the 150 grain Boattail.
The above link offers loads with the 140 and 150 grain standard barnes bullets with a TSX or XLC you may may be able to add a grain or 2 of powder and still be within the loading manual guidelines.
7-08 or 30-06, which is better for elk, eh?
Everyone will have an off-the-cuff opinion for you whether they have hunted (and killed) elk or not....
Here's a poll done this August, both cartridges you ask aboutare in there.The poll was of people who actually have taken elk and what their current favorite cartridge for that task is. No peanut gallery, no wannabes, just experienced players. That may be a bit more relevant source of information for you.....
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What is your favorite elk cartridge that you've actually taken elk with?
Final PollResults:
2- 270 Win
1- 7mm-08
5- 30-06
3- 7mm Remington Magnum
1- 300 Winchester Short Magnum
5- 300 Winchester Magnum
1- 300 Remington Ultra Magnum
6- 338 Winchester Magnum
1- 338 Remington Ultra Magnum
1-340 Weatherby Magnum
1- 338-378Weatherby Magnum
2- 375 Holland & Holland Magnum
1- 416 Remington Magnum
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30 Total
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** I'd recommend the 30-06, which is our elk camp minimum.
** Regarding bullets, I'd recommend Nosler Partitions, Barnes TSX,Failsafes, or similar premium bullet--- go heavy for caliber, 180 gr for Partitions (and other lead cores), 160+ for Barnes or Failsafes (majority copper alloy).
**If both rifles shoot well, then I would consider the rifle's appearance to be a total non-factor.
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7mm-08 vs. 30-06
