my first rifle was a .22 LR remmington custom, but my first high powered rifle was a ruger #1 .270, i have yet to shoot an animal and not have it drop within 60 yards of where it was shot. .270's dont carry as high grained cartridges as a .30-06 can, but i prefer the single action of the ruger #1 and .270 is a good calibre for wild dogs on up to moose if you use the right load for the job. The main question for a first gun wouldnt be as much what calibre as what action do you want. Bolt? Semi? Lever? Breach loaded or even single shot lever. all have strengths and weaknesses.



-BFA