I say get both.

Either is a great choice for elk and deer. I prefer a 30 cal like the 30-06, but that's just my personal preference.

Good luck in ID. Shoot some wolves.

270, or split the difference, 280 rem or 280 Rem. Ackley Improved.

I can't go with your AI suggestion since he's not a reloader. He needs to go with a common caliber and the 06 and .270 are as good as it gets for what he wants and with easily to be found ammo just about anywhere in either one.

280 Ack is now a SAAMI cartridge so factory ammo is available. Not as plentiful as .270 or 30/06 but it's out there.

"Out there" in more ways than one!! Poor guy would go broke learning how to shoot! The few that even produce the cartridge are charging anywhere from $3.00-$5.00 a round!! Definitely not a round I would suggest to anyone that doesn't reload.

Aaron, I may catch some static over this, but for your first big game rifle you're definitely on the right track considering a .270 or 30-06 (and don't forget the .308) - don't let somebody talk you into a magnum.

Averages about $2.80 a round...half the price of a Weatherby or Lazzeroni lol

I don't agree with this at all. While the sight might not need to be on target when the rifle is raised, the front and rear sights damned well better be in alignment, else you'll never shoot it as well nor acquire your sights as quickly as you could. Proper comb height and stock cast do matter in rifles, as much as they do in shotguns. Guys just tend to be apathetic because they have a rear sight as a reference and they neglect their right to refuse a stock which forces them to sacrifice their cheek weld to align the sights.

True 30-06 may pack a lil more punch but I prefer the flatter shooting 270 .the little size you give up makes less drop improving accuracy allowing you to hit the right spot ,and the 270 is big enough to do the job without as much damage. Also lighter in the field . Enjoy your choice, they are both good and should bring you good memories.