I would agree that the 30-06 may not be the best choice for varmits, but it does a great job there. It may not be the best gun for deer, but it does the great job there too. Bear?, put the bullet where you should, dead bear. What is called a "compromise" could just as easily be labeled "versatile". One would be well equipped in most any circumstane on the North American continent with the 30-06.(and for most game on other continents also) It's 102 years old and still as popular as it was in 06'--1906!. That can't be said for the countless miracle rounds that have gone obsolete in the same period. Must be something to it. But as many have pointed out, it is nice to have the option for other calibers too. I love my .222 Remington, but many would say that has been bettered. The woodchucks don't say that, and they ain't talking when shot with the 30-06 either. So if one thinks the 30-06 is not for them, fine, don't buy one, I won't lose any sleep. Dan
