A 30-06 shoots 200 gr and lighter bullets better than the 338-06 (look at ballistic coefficients). For heavier bullets the .35 Whelen and 9.3X62 make more sense, plus factory ammunition availability (not that I would use any except in a pinch).
Sorry, but it makes no sense when you say "look at ballistic coefficients" on the one hand for .30 caliber bullets, and then say that a .35 caliber cartridge makes more sense for heavier bullets. When you look at "heavier bullets" like the 250 or 300 grain .338 Scenars or the 230, 250, or 270 grain Hornady bullets the .338 wipes the floor with 35 caliber bullets.
And for my purposes, I just want a bigger bullet than .30 caliber, and not for long range so BC is not really a consideration for me. Less recoil than the .338 WM, great bullet selection, and the ability to use .30-06 cases if need be are just the icing on the cake.
