Originally Posted by
Alsatian
The classic answer to that question is the .30-06. More widely available ammo. More range of bullets in commercial loads. The .30-06 has an advantage over the .308 ballistically. While some would argue this difference is marginal and/or insignificant, it is never said that the .308 has a ballistic advantage over the .30-06 -- chew on that for a minute.
Can't argue with the ballistics logic but I can't resist defending the advantages of the .308:
1) More compact cartridge with those obvious advantages.
2) Less recoil.
3) Greater accuracy. The difference is generally insignificant for hunting but benchrest shooting is something I have done a lot of.
The .308 is, last I checked, one of a few American loads that can almost compete with the 6MM PPC. Reasons cited for the very small advantage found in the 6MM PPC? Exceedingly well made rifles, a smaller flash hole and an incredibly well designed cartridge....for benchrest shooting.
Not disagreeing with you. It is indeed true that the .30-06 is generally a more effective hunting load. The .308 is arguably a more efficient load. How about small female/youth whitetail shooters for example? A necked down .308.....say the .243 may be ideal.
Reloading is great for taking ones mind off the problems of the world. So is hunting....unless the bullet clashes in less than ideal circumstance.