Thanks for the opinion. IN no way was i being sarcastic, just looking for honest opinions. Again, i was able to buy what i wanted at the time of my purchase. Here is what i considered.
1. all around use... use an 06 on any game
2. price of ammo.. i am getting a box of 30.06 carts for $8 Can't get that price on the 7mm mag..
3. available anywhere. I think i can get 30.06 ammo at ACE hardware now..
4. poplularity - usually someone is hunting with a 30.06 so you should be able to get a few bullets if need be in a pinch.
5. Middle of the road recoil. (the price you pay for a .30 round) but not as much as some of the other magnum calibers. I came from shooting 12 gauge slugs so i know recoil.
6. Ballistics are not to bad on the 30.06. They are up there with all the other calibers in the same size wieght and range.