For all around big game hunting, you cant go wrong with an 30-06. Especially if it is your first rifle. I personally shoot a .270 and wouldnt be afraid to shoot at any big game with it, but then again I have been shooting that caliber for years and it is my families caliber of choice. The .06 has a very wide selection of shells and there is sure to be one that fits your needs for just about anything you do. Now if you are going to try and shoot varmits too with your big game rifle, maybe the .270 would better fit your needs, they are said to be a bit flatter shooting and probably wouldnt blow up a small animal as badly as an .06 would.