I would think it would depend on where and how you hunt. If most of your shots are 100 yards or less, the 12 gauge or 30-30 would be the ticket. If you need to reach out and touch something at 200+ yards, then the .270, 30-06 and above is what I would use. I would also take into consideration how far away any adjoining houses were to your property that you hunt. Those higher caliber rounds travel a long ways if you don't hit your mark. Also, how many other hunters are in the woods with you. Safety first, bone collecting second......