Jeff,
A more accurate comparison between the .30-06 and .300 WSM would be with the 180- and 200-grain AccuBonds, since in the same length barrel these can be given about the same muzzle velocity. I know this because I've loaded for both rounds a lot.
That's been my observation as well... in fact was thinking that very same thing today shooting 200's out of my 23" bbl'd 300 WSM at 2,800-2,840.
Getting all amped-up over the 300 WSM vs. 30-06 is sort of silly IMO. To me it's more about the platform than the round. Either is totally elk capable as far as a competent shooter can shoot. 180's? 200's? Either will work... finding a good bull is an entirely different matter.
As the old saw goes, "the
best elk rifle is whatever the
best elk hunter has in his hands."
