Get the 300 WSM and don't look back. I researched before I bought mine. I'm a traditional 270 win deer guy but after deciding on the 300 wsm, I'm definetely very happy. I know the cartridge to be very accurate and I love a short action bolt in the classic model 70 reciever. This cartridge is a best seller now in most gun shops, ask around and you will see. I'd say it is as versitile as a 30-06 with slightly better ballistics as a bonus. Deer I would fire a 150 0r 165 graner, Elk even moose, the 180 grain will give em a wallup!