For 165gr and below, the 308Win is my choice. Short actions seem so much easier to work up dynamic loads for. I can pretty well equal 30-06 performance with 165gr and below. You also have nice compact bullet design, with a tad light actions and factory rifles available. Seems like the most ideal deer gun available. I would have no quams and have taken my 308win from Deer to Moose.

For greater than 165gr bullet choices, the 30-06 walks off and leaves the 308. If you want to shoot 200gr bullets, I think you need a 300win mag, but the 30-06 will do it with ease.

For me all you need is a 308win and 300win mag (or equiv like WSM, weatherby, RUM), for just about anything.