I realize this is largely a matter of opinion, but I'd like to ask you all what premium factory loads out of a 25-06 you recommend for big game. I had been using standard Federal 117 grain Hot-Cor loads with good results up until last year, when I had a bullet essentially "blow up" on a nice muley's shoulder from about 80 yards. We almost lost the buck -- we were lucky enough to track him down the following morning -- but the situation left enough of a sour taste in my mouth to not want it to happen again.

We've got some pretty good-sized muleys out where I hunt, and I will use the same rifle on a cow elk hunt this season. I do not handload. Of course, I will try 3-4 different loads and use the ones that shoot best out of my rifle.

So, what factory loads do you recommend for large deer and smaller elk from a 25-06. Some of the choices I've looked at are from:

Federal: Nosler Partition, Trophy Bonded Bear Claw, Barnes Triple Shock (100gr)
Remington: Premier Core-Lokt Ultra
Any others?

Thanks for your input. I realize there's not definitive answer here, but I appreciate everyone's experience.

i would shoot the barnes i started using them last year in my 243 for whitetails and i don't think i will use anything else again

115 gr Nosler Partition in Federal Premium would be a dood starting point. NP's generally fly pretty good out of most rifles but if they don't you could try the Fed premium 115 TBBC or 100gr Barnes TSX.

Best of luck!

Good advice on bullet types. Partitions are a good place to start to avoid the non-penetrating "blow up" you described. IMHO, if you are moving up to elk, then your quest for a better bullet should be only part of your mission.

Even a cow elk will run two to three times larger than deer and are much more durable also. Little jobs, little tools. Bigger jobs, bigger tools. Everyone should have a "cornerstone" 30-06 in their closet. You might consider picking one up, much better suited for the "elk job" especially since elk are not prone to giving one that broadside (deer) pose.

Also, FYI, in the big picture, mid-bores start at .375 and run through the .416's. 338's down are considered smallbores.

Good luck in your hunts this fall,
EKM

Thanks guys for posting informative responses. EKM, the medium-bore thing just slipped by me, I'll change the title. Thanks again you three.