7mm Rem Mag, .280, .270, 30-06, 25-06 (unless you want to shoot elk at longer ranges). Take your pick. But if you just started shooting, chances are the .270 will still shoot farther and more accurately than you are currently capable of shooting. Just something to keep in mind. Not saying you're a bad shooter- just saying you may want to practice before worrying about getting a long range rifle. Also, getting as close as you can is a lot more fun than shooting at a speck for most people.