I used nothing but the 30-30 for 7yrs(75-82) in Northern Mn, iron sight's only,my shots were all under 150yrds but you cant beat it for heavy cover,also I know afew guys that hunt Elk and Moosewith thiers,but again they get up close and personal with them.....Even tho I have a -06 if I decide to gun hunt deer(archery last 24yrs)again I would go to the 30-30 for deer andas for Elk,Moose and maybe Bearit would be the 06.