It also gets confusing when you compare brands of ammuntion. You are probably quoting Remington core-lock ammo for the 30-06 at 500 yards (880 foot lbs). However, a look at Federal Premium and Hornady Custom ammo both still have 1200 ft/lbs at 500 yards with a 150 grain bullet.

Bottom line is you can do research till the cows come home. There is no "best" one rifle (which is why I own 6 different calibers!

If you are into hand loading, or don't mind spending a fortune for ammo, then by all means go for an oddball/new caliber. However, if you want to be able to pick from a good selection of ammo at a reasonable price, stick with either the 30-06 or the 7mm rem mag.

Sure, there are guns that do a certain job better than these, but both of these will get the job done WELL for anything for anthing from deer to elk.