I own numerous big game hunting rifles which include both the 30-06 and 7mm mag. I've used both for deer and elk but when I had the opportunity to start hunting moose I picked up a .338 mag. Using a 250 gr. bullet knocks them down real fast.My .338 mag is quite a bit heavier than both my 30-06 and 7 mm mag (with scope I think it is just over 10 lbs). Then again with the amount of recoil it has, I wouldn't want it to be lighter. Beside moose and paper, I haven't had the need to use it. Perhaps someday I'll go after some big bears and it will come in useful. Even though it has seen limitted use when I needed that extra punch itwas the right rifle.