Allround calibre for everything from ptarmigans to deer?

[Arne_]

Hi!

Im looking for a calibre that can be used to hunt practically everything! Is this possible?

My economy is kinda tight, and I really can't afford a rifle/shotgun for every animal i'm to hunt!

Therefore, I'm looking for this calibre that should be large enough to take down everything from ptarmigans (or other grouses) to at least a deer? Is this possible? I'm thinking of reloading ammo myself, to this way first of all get the speed and bullets that I want, to get the appropriate result, and also because this is in the end cheaper.

What do you think about .270? Or maybe .308win? It has to be able to shoot at large distances with a satisfying result (200 yards maybe). Silencers are legal in my country, so don't worry about that, recoil is more relevant to me. I've also thought about .223, but I think this is too weak to beat down a deer.

Regards
Arne_

[jeepkid]

.243Win, .260Rem, .270Win, 7mm-08, .308Win...all of them will do it...

[ButchA]

Hmmm... One gun/caliber for everything from birds to deer? Easy...

12GA Shotgun.
(Load it with whatever shells you want depending on the game your hunting.)

[stubblejumper]

A 243 will easily take deer to 200 yards and it is far more suitable for smaller game than a 270.

[wolverine72]

Remington 870 Express 12 or 20 gauge combo -- one smooth barrel and one rifled slug barrel.

[mauser06]

id definitely agree with a 12 gauge....

can hunt pretty much anything in the world with a 12ga and the right shell.

a rifled barrel with a scope for slugs and a smooth bore for shooting shot...

[driftrider]

You have to get the right tool for the job. Hunting grouse with a centerfire rifle is like driving finish nails with a 6lb sledge hammer... the sledge will sure do the job, but you're not going to like the finished project. There is a BIG difference between a deer and a small upland game bird, and the right tool for the job is different in both cases.

If you simply can't afford but one gun, I'd have to agree that a 12 gauge pump shotgun is the best choice. It's the multi-tool of the gun world and with the right combination of shell, barrel and sights can be used to humanely harvest anything that breaths air, within the limits inherent of the weapon.

Another option you might consider is to get yourself a Thompson/Center Encore and get both a 12 gauge barrel and a centerfire rifle barrel in your choice of caliber. Since you're asking this question I'd guess that you're not an experienced rifleman, so I'd STRONGLY recommend that you start with a lighter recoiling cartridge as your first deer rifle. I'd recommend you'd consider the .243 Winchester, .25-06 Rem or at most the 7mm-08 Rem. All are excellent deer cartridges that won't break the bank your bruise your shoulder.

Mike

[skeeter 7MM]

For what your asking; upland to deer out to 200 yards not possible. I'd suggest a rimfire .22LR for upland and small game. Plus a 24cal to .308cal CF for varmits &deer.

[Doe Dumper]

Count me in on the 12 gauge for one gun only.

[Bernie P.]

+1 Shotgun.