I would suggest the .308 Winchester. I shoot a .30-06 Springfield, and I love it, but if I had it to do all over again I would probably opt for the .308 Winchester. There are a few reasons that I make this suggestion.

1. The .308 is a short action cartridge and thus it is available in shorter, lighter rifles. This may not seem like much of a difference, but any thing that can make carrying my rifle more pleasurable is okay with me.

2. The .308 has better availability of ammunition. If you like plinking you can take advantage of military surplus ammo in the neighborhood of 150 to 200 bucks per thousand rounds. Also, the hunting ammunition available is top notch as well. You have AT LEAST a dozen choices in the 150 to 180 grain variety and all of them are suitable for deer, black bear, hogs, elk, moose, and tons of other game.

3. The .308 and the .30-06 are nearly ballistically identical. In the field you will be very hard pressed to notice any difference at distances under 300 yards. Lets all be honest with ourselves here. Who has ever taken a shot at game beyond 300 yards? I know that I haven't, and even if you have you should know that 99% of your shots will be under 300 yards and most of them will be well under 300 yards.

If you decide to go with the .30-06 you will not be disappointed, but the .308 will be a fine choice as well!