Yes, I stole that from Larry Potter. Some quick background on my hunting. I hunt mostly public or block managed land in MT. It is a long travel for me, but I used to live there, so I kind of know what to expect.
I have a Ruger Hawkeye in 6.5x55. I really like it as a hunting rifle. Low recoil, drops mulies in their tracks, shoots like a laser, what could I not like? Well, I’m not sure about 6.5x55 on elk. If your only comment is that Swedes have killed moose with them for years, save your breath....I got that. I’d also be willing to bet most Swedes would rather have a 9.3x62 in their hands on that hunt!
So, the step up to me is some moderately customized model 70 based rifle with a good barrel, custom fit wood, open sights and a quality scope with bdc to 500 and about a 40mm objective.
So, let’s talk caliber....right now, I’m thinking 6.5X55, 6.5-06, 270 Win, 280 AI, or 30’06 AI. My deciding factors are elk killing ability, ballistics to 500 yds, bullet selection/quality, recoil, availability of good brass at reasonable cost, mag capacity, etc.
So what should I be thinking?
