I'm getting a left handed stainless/laminate Ruger Hawkeye from my wife for Christmas.
I've found a dealer that has a few left, one in 06' and one in .300 winny.
I hunt hogs throughout the year, and of course deer during season. Shots range from 50-300 yards, but 99% of the time under 150-175. My father and I keep talking about planning an elk hunt in the next 3-4 years, but who knows if that will actually happen.
There's always been something about the .300 Winny I've loved, even though I've never owned one. I shoot my Dads .270, .30-06, and 7 mag quite a bit and I'm very comfortable with all three.
So, should I be "sensible" and choose the 06' or get the .300 that I know isn't needed (but might be welcomed if that elk hunt does materialize)?
06' and .300 Win. Mag. shooters chime in.
I need opinions

tell me,what in texas do you need a 300 for?and if your planning on going elk hunting here out west a 30-06 is plenty.unless you want a magnum for status then get it.the 30-06 isnt a slouch and does very well.but if you can afford to reload or the ammo do it.i really dont think them little things you call deer need it but some folks really like the 300.i just got rid of mine,my 59yr old 30-06 still drops them.if ya want it for long range then get it.

well said.........

Do you have any rifles of your own?

I completely agree with what is posted above. The 30-06 will kill any deer, elk, or moose alive but if you (not your dad) already have a 30-06 class rifle then you may as well go with the 300 if for no other reason than to spread it out a little.

I would go with the 30-06, but that is just me, go with what you really want or you wont be satisfied until you get one.

BOTH- will kill any of the game you are interested in. But, Neither will kill any of those animals DEADER than the other one can. The 300 Win Mag = more charge and more range. But when you take a close look at their capabilities, you are just drawing straws at any shots taken 400 yards or less. Thats just my opinion though.

Went with the .30-06

i load for my 06 and to be honest there just isnt anything i cant do with it.the largest bear taken in alaska years ago was taken with a 30-06.its just the best for all in my opinion.hope you enjoy it and merry christmas

There is nothing unsensible about a .300 Win mag. As far as status ....not many people know I shoot one so I am status free. I just like the way it shoots.

I just went elk hunting yesterday; my hunting partner was the shooter, and had an old Remington 600 in 308 with 150gr core-lokts. 1 shot did the trick at about 200yds on a cow. Granted, I would rather use a more premium bullet on elk myself, but as far as hunting goes you can usually get plenty close to make the kill without much gun. Just use good bullets. The ol' 30-06 can handle about anything. I'm sure you won't be wishing for more gun in the hunting world.