Ok, well my buddy had his kid use the 30/06. even though this was the kids first elk hunt he has logged 100;s of hours deer, turkey and rabbit hunting. We spent quite a bit of time having that kid shoot the 06 to get him ready. Even though he didn't get the chance at a bull he had a very successful hunting trip. 2 other kids in camp shot elk, 1 cow and 1 bull. Great experience for them