KonaBoy

Go with the 30-06

ufg8r93

I own an old 7400 in '06 and an A-Bolt II in 270 WSM. If I could only have one of them, I think I'd pick the '06. Ammo is still cheaper and easier to find, but our local Wal-Marts have started carrying multiple loads in the 270 WSM. For deer, I think the 270 WSM is a fantastic cartridge. Same goes for other, similar-sized game. For elk, I'd guess it's a little small. I'd go with a 30 cal. or above for elk, bear, etc.

One thing to note: my 270 WSM kicks harder than my '06. Part of the reason's certainly the semi-auto vs. bolt action thing. Still, the WSMs are starting to develop a rep for sharp shoves.

RON G.

I own a .270 that I use for Mule Deer, and a .300 Win Mag for Elk and bigger game. If I were to choose one caliber for everything, I would choose the .30-06. I love my .270, and my .300, BUT the '06 will do almost everything my two gun battery will in almost any situation. The only exception is LONG range where the .270 shoots flatter, and the .300 is flatter and hits harder. The only reason I chose two different calibers is because I live in Wyoming, and sometimes shots can be pretty long. If 99% of your shots are 300 yrds. or less, the '06 is hands down the best choice.

TEXAS 10PT

The 30.06 is a GREAT round. If you check ballistic charts you will see that a 30.06 180 grain bullet will drop 8.5 inches at 300 yards. A 300 mag 180 grain will drop 6.5 inches at the same distance. Not much difference. If you are taking a shot that far and have to aim high for bullet drop then a two inch difference in drop is still in the kill zone. You will then find you have to spend less money for a 30.06 and can find ammo anywhere. I thought about getting a mag but it just doesn't make that much sense monetarily when most shots are taken in less than 200 yards.