RE: I am trying to decide on a new rifle.
First, are you a handloader and how abundant is the ammunition in the area for the cartridge you want. Can you go to any sporting goods store or walmarts and get the ammo if your in a pinch. If it is no then I would consider somethig you can. I would go with something in the .30 caliber range. It is hard to beat a good 30-06 for all around use. If you desire extra speed and range you can always order some of Hornady's light magnum ammo. If you look at some of the ballistics of different cartridges once they get out to a certain range, the difference in ft. lbs. and velocity is is not really that big. In the hands of a good shot, any cartridge can be deadly. You have to know and be able to handle the caliber and cartridge you choose. If you cant shoot a magnum accurately, why have it.