I'll have to second the .308. It's ballistics are very similar to the 30-06, but with a short action. That can be important when you need a quick follow-up on a deer or bear that you will most likely encounter where you are hunting.

Here are the calbers it comes in.

.270 Winchester
.270 WSM
7mm Rem mag
7mm RUM
30-06
300 WSM
300 RUM
338 RUM
338 Win mag
375 H&H
375 RUM

With these calibers in mind I think the best one for you would be the .270 Winchester. On deer size animals, black bears and caribou it will be all the gun you will ever need or want. And for elk it still does a great job on them also. IMHO it is truely one of the very best do all cartridges out there. The 30-06 would be my second choice.

Remember that the dead deer really aren't going to care if you shot them with a magnum or a standard cartridge.

.300 RUM. Good luck.

If it was availible in 308, I wouldn't have to ask this question. The 308 is by far my favorite round, but it is not offered in the XCR. I'm kinda leaning toward the 30-06.

To everyone else who has responded, thanks for your opinions. I must admit however, I can see no need for anything "magnum" when it will be used 90% of the time on deer and black bear.

In all seriousness I would have to go with either one of the 270's.

AWWW...sorry, I didn't realize it doesn't come in the .308. From the list bigbulls gave, my second choice would have to be the '06. Won't be overkill on deer, but will still handle the bigger stuff. Plus, the shells won't cost you an arm and a leg like the RUM's and WSM's.

.338 win mag.

270, 7mm mag or if you like the power and recoil 300rum

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