[quote=clayshooter25;3687236]After seriously pondering all that has been written above and the data provided and realistically considering my options for future hunts, I've decided that I will be purchasing a Winchester Model 70 in .308 Win. Should I be fortunate enough to go on an elk or moose hunt, it is most apt to be in relatively dense forest (Northeast) as opposed to open range (Western US). As a result, I do not anticipate taking any 200-300 yard shots. Moreover, having a caliber that wil not give me a pounding means I am more apt to shoot this firearm on a regular basis at the range. I subscribe to the theory that the gun/caliber will not make me a better shooter, rather practice will!

Thanks to everyone above for having offered their experiences and opinion. It is truly appreciated

The .308 will work fine on elk, moose and anything smaller up to and including 300 yards.. It ain't like 300 yards is a real long shot, as long as you have a steady rest..The cartridge certainly shoots flat enough for 300 yard shots.. I would MUCH prefer to take a 300 yard shot with a steady rest ( with a .308 or many other similar rounds) than to take an offhand shot at 75 yards...