.270

30-06 - versatility, manageable recoil, and ammo availability makes it a logical choice.

.270

Not knowing if moose and big bears would be in the equation, I’d opt for 300WM. Over gunned here but would about par for the biggest North American game. Could push a 150 at high speeds for wt, etc. and run a 210-230 for the big stuff.

I bought my 30-06 from saving my lunch money and doing odd jobs when I was a Sophomore in High School. It kicked pretty bad when I was a teenager, and then after I got out of the Marines, I didn't notice the kick anymore, but then I wanted something more exotic. I went through that phase for awhile, but always took the 30-06 hunting, and it never failed me. I tried reloading, but then found Federal Premium ammo and gave up on reloading. Eventually after going on hunts in different places, meeting quite a few other hunters and seeing what they used, I came to love my rifle and the 30-06 caliber. I didn't know anything when I bought it, then I went through that stage of thinking I knew everything, and luckily settled down to happy ignorance to where I enjoy my rifle and not want another one to hunt with. I'll still buy something new if it catches my eye, but when I'm heading out into the field, I'm carrying my 30-06

Why is it we notice the kick as Eddie has mentioned but in time we don't notice anymore? Same with me.

1 Rifle? I would lean 300 WM, 7RM, or .30-06.

1 Cartridge, multiple platforms? I might look at the .338 Federal, which I think is overlooked quite a bit. You can build an AR-10 in it or a bolt gun, it fits in a short action, and carries nearly as much thump as an '06 with the heavier bullets. 200gr SST has a bc of .455 so you can push it out a ways, at least as far as 95% of people hunt. 180-185 for WT and hogs, 210-225-230 for moose and bear or heavy African antelope. And it would be kinda unique, which is fun to me.

For Texas game, a 30-06 is over kill. You can kill all TX game with a good .243 and a good scope. It is good for most sheep and deer size animals. Shoot placement is key with any gun.

The question went well beyond Texas game.

Time behind the gun? First time I ever shot a 12 gauge, it was alarming (first gun I ever shot). Now, it doesn’t bother me at all, even with 3.5” shells.

I really wouldn't want to go after a West Texas Mule deer, Aoudad or a Big panhandle whitetail with a .243. For whitetail hunting only over much of the state its adequate but not a do-all caliber even in Texas

I'd say 243 is a bare minimum caliber for big game. I wouldn't want it to be my only gun. It's not even legal for elk in some places.

Don't think I would take a chance shooting a big bull @ 300 yds. plus with a .243....Just Sayin..

30.06

Simple choice.

Not flashy for over a century, but still kills stuff dead.

This is a 30.06 rifle I inherited from my grandfather. He got in the early 50's. Best we can tell it has less than 100 rounds thru it....probably a lot less. It is in perfect condition. I will never sell it and will pass it on to one of my sons.

My choice would be 300WM.

Lemme just walk through the West Texas mesquite brush once with it. (You know I'm kidding.) It's a beautiful thing.

Yes, very nice. Need to bring that thing when you guys come hunt this season with us.

I'm surprised nobody said they would go with a 6.5 creedmore.

Please explain a 30-60. I have never heard of that caliber rifle??

It's kind of like a 270 necked up for a 308 bullet.

I only hunt with my 30.06 until I bought my son his .243. Love that one now. Been using 06 for 15 years with no issues to 225 yards. 70+ animals down so see no point in changing. Fixed 6 zeiss on it.

I still have my 6mm from when I was a kid. I make a point to take it with me to the blind at least 1 time during the season. While I have other guns, I still enjoy using it. Now we have 2 grandsons (one 4 and the other 5) that I took out a couple of times this last season. They will be starting out on the 6mm soon enough, but now it would seem I'll be in the market for another one soon so that they will each have their own. I know there are many choices for guns, but I'm still amazed at what that 6mm will do. I didn't use it on any of my elk hunts, or while hunting mule deer but for hanging around here in Texas for me the 6mm is awesome. No doubt everyone has their own choice and many might say it isn't enough gun. I'll pass on the 6mm to the boys and have them paying attention to shot placement no matter what they decide to get as they grow older.

45-70?