I have not read all the responces, but here is my take on the subject. I personally own a 30/06, 25/06, and a 243. I think the ole 30/06 cant be beat for whitetail, although, I hunt with my 25/06 or 243, depending on if my wife is hunting. She uses my 25/06. The reason I like the 30/06 is you can find shells for them pert near anywhere and in a wide range of selection. Im not a handloader. I believe the 30/06 has all you need and more to put a smack down on deer. The reason I use a smaller calibur is because I tend to flinch. I'm a big ole boy, you may call me a wuss, but I have a problem with flinching. It helps me with that when I have a gun I know has little recoil and I can relax. I may have to trail up my deer, but I have always had good blood trails so that hasnt been a problem. If I had no issue with flinching it would be 30/06 all the way! JMO Have a Great Day!