I've been shooting a 308 for about fifteen years (I'm 30 now) started with a 30-30. We are pretty much a 308 family since my dad was in law enforcment. I think the 308 is about the only calibar a guy needs for the hunting in Eastern US. For deer I would say the 150gr. Soft point is about all you need. But for elk, I would move up to a good 180 gr. bullet.

I started my son out three years ago when he was 10, on a Marlin Lever action 44 mag. He shot a doe that first year, and missed one this year. He would get alot more chances if he would get up and go hunting. And then if he would stay in the stand long enough!
<img src=icon_smile_big.gif border=0 align=middle> He likes a warm bed.