James - Sorry if I sounded like I was arguing with you, that is not my intent. I totally agree that certain rifles seem to have the quality of being "that" rifle..... But in my humble opinion, the shot placement and choosing the right bullet/load has a big impact on making that rifle/load the "right" one. But if you have hunted for as long as I think, you knew a "poll" type question like which is the best gun would cause some debate

But......If I had one rifle/load to pick, for the areas I hunt and distance I shoot, it would be my 30-06 with 150gr Nosler Ballistic Tips. It has that certain Hammer of Thor effect on whitetails.

Erik

Rusty Axe Camp