Originally Posted by nksmfamjp

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.

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?



6.5x55 is the correct answer, use a good bullet and it is an elk killer. You know your drops on it, from your post you obviously have confidence in shooting it, there is an old saying with a lot of truth in it - "dance with the one who brung you".

I used a 243 and a 260 for years and never had issues with either of them, although I was always careful with shot placement with the 243.

drover

223 Rem, my favorite cartridge - you can't argue with truckloads of dead PD's and gophers.

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