I had to make a similar decision recently for a Mule Deer / Elk hunt. I have a.30-06 but wanted something bigger. I looked at the .300 winchester, .300 WSW,.338 Federal, and .338 Win Mag. After reading, talking with folks on this sight, talking with some outfitters and local gun shops, I landed with the 300WSM. Its a great round and ammo is available everywhere. I shot a Mule Deer and three whitetails with Federal Premium Accubonds 180gr. Great round for long range big game! Recoil is very tolerable, which improves accuracyand ithits just as hard as the .300 Win or .338 Federal