I agree with the above posts. The .25-06 is a great long range rifle. I love the 6.5 x 55 but think your rifle choices and ammo will be somewhat limited if you go this route. I can not speak for other areas, but there is only one sporting goods store in a 100 mile radius that has 6.5x55 hunting ammunition and it's Remington Core Lokt (not my favorite ammo). Something to ponder.