Tom I live out west. I hunt here in Idaho. I have seen what a 7mm does to deer.,It literally blood shots a lot of meat. I would deffinatly go with the 30-06... You can purchase a 130 grain for Deer....150 grain for Elk or ....240 grain for Alaska Grizzly Bear. I think it is the best choice on a all round rifle. I have a 30-30,,,,30-40 Craig,,,,,,270,,,, and I am now purchasing a good 30-06 so I can use it on anything. Whatever you decide it will be your choice and hope you make the right one and good luck to you on hunting out West...