The 30-06 works great. Especially if you are after something big like elk,moose,or big bears or boars. It will kill all of the above without outrageous recoil.
For deer,I want something that kicks less and/or shoots flatter at normal hunting ranges of 500 yards or less.
Last few years I've been using a 6.5 Creedmoor with a 120 grain monolithic bullet at 3000 fps. It shoots flatter and/or kicks less than a 30-06.
This year I'm going to try a 7mm-08 with a 120 grain monolithic bullet. Also going try a 243 with the 90 grain accubond. May even take my CZ in 6.5 Grendel. It shoots about as flat as a 30-06 and has a lot less recoil.
Where are you hunting that 500 yards is normal deer hunting range?
He who joyfully marches in rank and file has already earned my contempt. He has been given a large brain by mistake, since for him the spinal cord would suffice.
