Weatherby doesn't show up on the list due to the high cost of ammo. Your example is not a valid measure of effectiveness to prove your point.
In other words, people shy away from the .300WBY because they find something that "better" suits their needs? Like more something with more affordable ammo? ...
No, because they can't either not afford their rifles AND/OR don't care for the make. And "better suit their needs" can be a whole other set of variables, as too much recoil, prefer another caliber (taste and needs are subjective) etc. About the only quantifiable MOE are ballistics and round characteristics. Weatherby are over-bore as most people know and there are other myriad cartridges out there that take elk cleanly. The "is there anything better" is an OPINION, and from a ballistic perspective and effectiveness on game, the Weatherby's a top contender.
Agreed, "better suit their needs" can be for a wide range of reasons. But the reason you specified was cost of ammo, which is completely valid - no need to back away from it. The other reasons you mention are also valid reasons for choosing something else.
I also agree that "best" is an OPINION. As such it is based on individual and subjective criteria, many of which are by necessity related to personal preferences and capabilities (physical and economic), something some here don't get at all.
If the sole criteria is the effect of the bullet after impact I vote for a .50BMG with a 750g AMAX bullet.
Coyote Hunter - NRA Patriot Life, NRA Whittington Center Life, GOA, DAD - and I VOTE!
No, I'm not a Ruger bigot - just an unabashed fan of their revolvers, M77's and #1's.
