Post by: Natas5150 on May 16, 2017, 02:26:49 PM
Thanks.
Post by: jrebel on May 16, 2017, 02:28:37 PM
Post by: Alchase on May 16, 2017, 02:32:39 PM
Your .270 will kill an elk deader than dirt.....no need to upgrade unless you want another rifle.
Agreed, .270 is good to go.
Bullet selection would be good to research.
Post by: Scheindogg on May 16, 2017, 02:35:31 PM
Post by: Roperfive88 on May 16, 2017, 02:53:06 PM
I killed my only elk with a 25-06 and hunt a 300 wsm now. I haven't got a shot at an elk but has been awesome at 300 yds on a couple nice whitetail bucks. My dad killed his branch bull 2 years ago at 180 yds with his .270 went 20yds and was done.
Post by: CP on May 16, 2017, 03:01:06 PM
Post by: C-Money on May 16, 2017, 03:11:38 PM
Post by: PlateauNDN on May 16, 2017, 03:13:03 PM
Post by: bobcat on May 16, 2017, 03:18:45 PM
Post by: Special T on May 16, 2017, 03:27:43 PM
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using Tapatalk
Post by: Woodchuck on May 16, 2017, 03:27:56 PM
Post by: dvolmer on May 16, 2017, 03:48:08 PM
I owned a 30-06 for years for both deer and elk. 5 or so years ago I sold my 30-06's and went to a 270 for deer and antelope and a 300 win mag for elk. Suits me fine. Like I said, you will get more opinions than you could ever imagine on this. My only warnings are to stay away from all the fad calibers that come and go. The 243. 270, 30-06, 7mm mag, and the 300 win mag will give you all the choices you need and easy access to reliable, accurate, and reasonably priced ammo. You can re-load all you want to fit any conditions or needs if that is what you like to do.
Post by: Curly on May 16, 2017, 04:04:49 PM
Looking for help on this before I buy in the fall. Trying to do my research now before hunting season.
The part quoted above stuck out to me so I have to ask...........why wait? :dunno:
Do your research now, and buy ASAP is my advice. That will give you time to get the rifle setup with a scope, settle on ammo that it likes, break in the barrel and get some practice in with your new rifle. :twocents:
Post by: Tbob on May 16, 2017, 04:06:30 PM
Take down anything in North America. I've shot antelope up to a big ol' bull moose. Ammo is readily available too. Best all around hunting rifle for my needs.
Post by: hunter399 on May 16, 2017, 04:10:22 PM
Post by: wheels on May 16, 2017, 04:28:41 PM
Post by: dc on May 16, 2017, 05:08:06 PM
Post by: ghosthunter on May 16, 2017, 05:16:03 PM
I hunt all big game with my 30.06 pump.
Elk 50 cal. Muzzy :tup:
Post by: Instinct on May 16, 2017, 06:31:53 PM
Post by: elkaholic123 on May 16, 2017, 06:49:50 PM
Post by: high country on May 16, 2017, 06:58:49 PM
Post by: bobcat on May 16, 2017, 07:40:11 PM
It sounds like you Want a new rifle and you have the .270 for deer, I think you should look at the 30 caliber variety for elk. 300 WM, 300 WSM, 300 Weatherby or the new 30 Nosler. Lots of choices especially if you reload👍
:yeah:
I've never seen so many people trying to talk a guy out of a new rifle! What fun is that? You want a new rifle- get one!
Post by: hunter399 on May 16, 2017, 07:42:22 PM
There's a reason the state minimum is .243. ..it'll work. After killing several elk the lesson I've learned is to be a good shot and don't take risky shots.+1 the 243 it will have less drop at 500 yard than a 270 or 30-06 .
But on this forum your playin with fire when you say 243 for elk.They act like there panty just got a wedgie,diapers need to be change,and the whole hunting world just crashes.I have tryed to push 243 for elk goodluck.
Post by: Duckslayer89 on May 16, 2017, 07:46:07 PM
There's a reason the state minimum is .243. ..it'll work. After killing several elk the lesson I've learned is to be a good shot and don't take risky shots.+1 the 243 it will have less drop at 500 yard than a 270 or 30-06 .
But on this forum your playin with fire when you say 243 for elk.They act like there panty just got a wedgie,diapers need to be change,and the whole hunting world just crashes.I have tryed to push 243 for elk goodluck.
:chuckle:
Post by: Taco280AI on May 16, 2017, 08:08:34 PM
Post by: jdb on May 16, 2017, 08:12:20 PM
you sure about that??There's a reason the state minimum is .243. ..it'll work. After killing several elk the lesson I've learned is to be a good shot and don't take risky shots.+1 the 243 it will have less drop at 500 yard than a 270 or 30-06 .
Post by: Special T on May 16, 2017, 08:22:33 PM
Great article
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using Tapatalk
Post by: hunter399 on May 16, 2017, 08:23:45 PM
Do you have something to prove it wrong let's see it .Ya pretty sureyou sure about that??There's a reason the state minimum is .243. ..it'll work. After killing several elk the lesson I've learned is to be a good shot and don't take risky shots.+1 the 243 it will have less drop at 500 yard than a 270 or 30-06 .
Post by: hunter399 on May 16, 2017, 08:33:42 PM
http://gundata.org/blog/post/243-ballistics-chart/
http://gundata.org/blog/post/30-06-ballistics-chart/
http://gundata.org/blog/post/270-win-ballistics-chart/
If you find a better source let me know ,please dont hate cause you may not know something I'll teach ya.
Post by: NW SURVEYOR on May 16, 2017, 08:40:31 PM
One and done.
Post by: hunter399 on May 16, 2017, 08:45:55 PM
One thing I don't get about posts like this is why don't you just take the 3min to look it up before you post .with Google and everything on the internet .Its just strange to me.you sure about that??There's a reason the state minimum is .243. ..it'll work. After killing several elk the lesson I've learned is to be a good shot and don't take risky shots.+1 the 243 it will have less drop at 500 yard than a 270 or 30-06 .
Post by: Magnum_Willys on May 16, 2017, 08:52:31 PM
Post by: Scheindogg on May 16, 2017, 09:45:38 PM
Alright guys let's get back to the point.
.270 will absolutely do the trick. Any gun .243 or higher will do the trick if you can get good placement.
Like others said sounds like you want a new gun, if I were you I'd get a savage DOA hunter or trophy hunter XP and used the saved money from a more expensive rifle on ammo to practice practice practice with your new rifle before the season begins!!
:twocents:
Post by: Wacenturion on May 16, 2017, 09:49:46 PM
An old timer, like I ain't one :chuckle: told me one time the best elk gun he ever hunted with was a .375 H&H. He said it never failed him with shots that would have been doubtful with other calibers in the terrain he hunted in.....for what it's worth.
Post by: huntingfool7 on May 16, 2017, 10:07:19 PM
So I currently have a Tikka .270 I use for deer hunting. I was thinking about in the future doing some elk hunting and was wondering if I should upgrade to say a 30-06 for elk.
I'm a 30-06 guy. That said, 270/30-06/7mm mag class of cartridges will give similar results with similar shot placement. Nothing wrong with the 270 already in your rack. If you want/need something bigger, Go bigger .338/.35/.375
Post by: Special T on May 16, 2017, 10:11:28 PM
Bought a nice Browning Medallion Grade III back a few years ago in .325 WSM. Plan on using it the next time out for elk. Yeah, I know, limited ammo, etc., but appears to be a heck of an elk caliber according to some good articles that found it to be excellent on elk.Father in law has a 375 h&h.... If it don't kill the elk, the recoil will.
An old timer, like I ain't one :chuckle: told me one time the best elk gun he ever hunted with was a .375 H&H. He said it never failed him with shots that would have been doubtful with other calibers in the terrain he hunted in.....for what it's worth.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using Tapatalk
Post by: Oh Mah on May 16, 2017, 10:16:32 PM
This is a debate that has went on for 80 years ,your comparing Apple to oranges ,both are very good caliber.If I had to choose one 270 is it.Both are about the same ballistic,velocity,bullet drop,some say the 270 shoots flatter,30-06 has a heavy grain bullet and bucks the wind better.I would save your money and just use the 270 for elk,your not gaining anything by useing a 30-06.If you want a elk only rifle go get ,7mm mag ,300 win mag,338,act.I love the .338's could you tell me what this .338,act. Is? Thanks
Post by: hunter399 on May 16, 2017, 10:31:48 PM
Post by: Oh Mah on May 16, 2017, 10:40:33 PM
Post by: Dan-o on May 16, 2017, 11:29:22 PM
1. There are lots of good calibers out there that will do the job nicely.
2. The 7MM Remington Magnum is by far the best of them all.
Post by: CaNINE on May 17, 2017, 05:01:57 AM
The 270 is adequate for elk. But if you're looking to upgrade to a dedicated elk rifle, and I think you should, then leapfrog the 30-06 and get a 300 Win Mag.
Post by: Curly on May 17, 2017, 05:29:23 AM
Post by: Skyvalhunter on May 17, 2017, 05:36:28 AM
Post by: MooseStock on May 17, 2017, 05:45:46 AM
Post by: NW SURVEYOR on May 17, 2017, 05:54:40 AM
I have shot more elk with the 7mm Mag than with my .338.
They are both deadly, I just prefer the .338 as most of my shots are at less than 100 yards in the timber.
One thing that I learned years ago is this; A mortally wounded elk can go a long ways in a short time when spooked.
Growing up on the westside with all the hunting pressure, we wanted that elk on the ground, NOW!
Some areas had so much pressure that someone could put a kill shot in it and perhaps make claim.
Now this has never happened to me, but I have heard of it happening.
The .338 will leave a better blood trail all thing equal.
Bigger payload and more punch.
Elk are big animals and under ideal conditions just about anything will do the juob.
Rarley have I had the opportunity to shoot an elk under ideal conditions.
Prepare for the worst and hope for the best.
All that said, I still think the .280 or .280AI is a fine cartridge for elk.
A bit more punch that the .270 with minimum recoil and better than the .338 at beyond 400 yards.
As for the .243, I think that using one for elk is irresponsible and not fair to the elk.
And the advice to buy ASAP and practice makes a lot of sense,
Post by: Jpmiller on May 17, 2017, 06:49:28 AM
Post by: Magnum_Willys on May 17, 2017, 06:55:29 AM
Can we all agree on two simple, timeless truths:Fixed for ya! :)
1. There are lots of good calibers out there that will do the job nicely.
2. The7MM Remington338 Win Magnum is by far the best of them all.
Post by: White Pass Outfitters on May 17, 2017, 07:11:32 AM
Post by: high country on May 17, 2017, 07:14:19 AM
Post by: jrebel on May 17, 2017, 07:31:32 AM
I'm just lucky I guess. I've killed a dozen with inadequate rifles without issues and another dozen with the recommended rifles......and I continue to use inadequate rifles because I shoot them well and stuff dies on contact.
I've even killed a few with a stick and string....LOL. :chuckle: :chuckle:
No one is trying to talk him out of a new rifle.......matter of fact, I would reccomend a rifle for East side elk, west side elk and possible even a different rifle for when you draw the cow elk permit. I vote for a 300 win mag (or variant), 338 or 416 rigby (because it's cool). Maybe all three. :tup:
Post by: nwmein199 on May 17, 2017, 07:49:21 AM
Post by: Magnum_Willys on May 17, 2017, 07:52:40 AM
Post by: high country on May 17, 2017, 07:59:14 AM
Post by: Wacenturion on May 17, 2017, 08:09:07 AM
Bought a nice Browning Medallion Grade III back a few years ago in .325 WSM. Plan on using it the next time out for elk. Yeah, I know, limited ammo, etc., but appears to be a heck of an elk caliber according to some good articles that found it to be excellent on elk.Father in law has a 375 h&h.... If it don't kill the elk, the recoil will.
An old timer, like I ain't one :chuckle: told me one time the best elk gun he ever hunted with was a .375 H&H. He said it never failed him with shots that would have been doubtful with other calibers in the terrain he hunted in.....for what it's worth.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using Tapatalk
:chuckle:
Post by: JDHasty on May 17, 2017, 08:15:15 AM
Post by: Roperfive88 on May 17, 2017, 08:25:56 AM
I'm just lucky I guess. I've killed a dozen with inadequate rifles without issues and another dozen with the recommended rifles......and I continue to use inadequate rifles because I shoot them well and stuff dies on contact.
I've even killed a few with a stick and string....LOL. :chuckle: :chuckle:
No one is trying to talk him out of a new rifle.......matter of fact, I would reccomend a rifle for East side elk, west side elk and possible even a different rifle for when you draw the cow elk permit. I vote for a 300 win mag (or variant), 338 or 416 rigby (because it's cool). Maybe all three. :tup:
If your going with a 416 rigby why not the 338 lapua same case with a 338 bullet.
Post by: kball4 on May 17, 2017, 10:36:11 AM
Post by: AdnaHunter on May 17, 2017, 11:23:11 AM
Post by: Woodchuck on May 17, 2017, 12:24:18 PM
Post by: Natas5150 on May 17, 2017, 12:33:33 PM
Thanks.
Post by: JDHasty on May 17, 2017, 12:39:13 PM
Post by: Curly on May 17, 2017, 12:46:12 PM
(BTW - bullet choice is potentially another controversial topic). ;) :chuckle:
Post by: jrebel on May 17, 2017, 12:58:27 PM
Post by: high country on May 17, 2017, 01:46:08 PM
I would argue bullet weight is not as important as bullet construction. 130 grain bonded bullets will kill an elk (Barnes, Nosler partition / accubond, etc.). I have always been partial to the 150 grain nosler partition, but am currently working a load for the 140 grian Bergers VLD Hunters. :tup:
My 257 100tsx did a complete pass through on a Westside cow @ 400 yards. Never took a step. I'd not sweat any bullet in a 270win as every bullet made was designed to work at its velocity.
Post by: Chukarhead on May 17, 2017, 01:49:54 PM
I used to use a .30-06, but I had a cow take a step once after the shot, so I quit that one.
Now I only use a .50 cal. Almost twice as much gun as a .270. A .54 would be exactly twice as much gun, but bullet selection suffers for .54s, and honestly, .54 is overkill. My 290gr Barnes bullets put 'em down good and hard. They're twice as big, so they're over six times as good (bullet goodness= Pi times diameter)! If I feel like I need a little more zip, I just pour in a little more powder. Ka-POW!
Post by: chester on May 17, 2017, 03:16:55 PM
Thanks all for the replies. Sounds like I opened up a pretty good debate on the matter. One thing I have learned over the past is never discuss religion, sports or politics and now I can add what caliber should I use for elk hunting. :tup: In all seriousness though thanks for the help. As of right now I think maybe I will stay with my .270 and go with a 150 gr bullet. If I do get the itch to buy another I won't go with a 30-06 as I would not gain much from my .270. So if anyone has a good idea of a bullet I can use for elk in .270 I am all ears. Currently I am using 130 gr Federal ammo for deer.
Thanks.
Go find the 140gr accubonds and practice. You will kill anything in this state with that set up
Post by: yakimarcher on May 17, 2017, 03:56:00 PM
Post by: Taco280AI on May 17, 2017, 04:03:06 PM
Post by: C-Money on May 17, 2017, 04:04:48 PM
Post by: hunter399 on May 17, 2017, 04:10:14 PM
I don't like to put these out there cause when I buy them I like to be able to find them .But for a huntwashington member I will hook u up.
This is what you need,nosler bullet,loaded in winchester cases.accubonded holds almost all there weight,with a bad@as mushroom that punches quarter size holes in everything you shoot.
Post by: hunter399 on May 17, 2017, 04:13:08 PM
I use the 140 Accubond in my .270win. Deadly.I was writing same thing you thinking , that what I use in my 270 win anyway.
And they just look cool,and work better than they they look.
Post by: JDHasty on May 17, 2017, 04:20:52 PM
You want a elk droping ,deer slayer,bear hamburger,cougar Killen ,round then you need these.
I don't like to put these out there cause when I buy them I like to be able to find them .But for a huntwashington member I will hook u up.
This is what you need,nosler bullet,loaded in winchester cases.accubonded holds almost all there weight,with a bad@as mushroom that punches quarter size holes in everything you shoot.
I remember back when Bill Steiger was not having a lot of luck getting the major manufacturers to look at his bonded bullet concept. Now it sems that almost all have incorporated it into some of their designs.
Post by: hunter399 on May 17, 2017, 04:26:40 PM
Post by: jay.sharkbait on May 17, 2017, 04:31:49 PM
Anything less than a GAU-8 is unethical for elk. :tup:
Ethics shmethics.......I'll gat an Elk with whatever is rolling around in the back seat of the rig.
After finishing my beer.........tho
Post by: Ddouble on May 17, 2017, 04:41:25 PM
Post by: Woodchuck on May 17, 2017, 04:45:12 PM
Even a Tikka .243?Anything less than a GAU-8 is unethical for elk. :tup:
Ethics shmethics.......I'll gat an Elk with whatever is rolling around in the back seat of the rig.
After finishing my beer.........tho
Post by: jay.sharkbait on May 17, 2017, 04:51:08 PM
I've found an F150 to be my most effective caliber to date.
Yes, but your truck placement sucked.
I think it's weird how someone who is so good with a M107 at 1k can be so average when it comes to hitting an Elk with a truck.
Post by: Ddouble on May 17, 2017, 04:53:28 PM
When I blow up cinder block walls they aren't moving lol.I've found an F150 to be my most effective caliber to date.
Yes, but your truck placement sucked.
I think it's weird how someone who is so good with a M107 at 1k can be so average when it comes to hitting an Elk with a truck.
Post by: Scheindogg on May 17, 2017, 06:42:17 PM
Thanks all for the replies. Sounds like I opened up a pretty good debate on the matter. One thing I have learned over the past is never discuss religion, sports or politics and now I can add what caliber should I use for elk hunting. :tup: In all seriousness though thanks for the help. As of right now I think maybe I will stay with my .270 and go with a 150 gr bullet. If I do get the itch to buy another I won't go with a 30-06 as I would not gain much from my .270. So if anyone has a good idea of a bullet I can use for elk in .270 I am all ears. Currently I am using 130 gr Federal ammo for deer.
Thanks.
Fwiw my friend who solely hunts with his .270, also uses exclusively Remington core lokts. Says you don't need anything fancier- it gets the job done
Post by: JDHasty on May 17, 2017, 07:17:04 PM
Thanks all for the replies. Sounds like I opened up a pretty good debate on the matter. One thing I have learned over the past is never discuss religion, sports or politics and now I can add what caliber should I use for elk hunting. :tup: In all seriousness though thanks for the help. As of right now I think maybe I will stay with my .270 and go with a 150 gr bullet. If I do get the itch to buy another I won't go with a 30-06 as I would not gain much from my .270. So if anyone has a good idea of a bullet I can use for elk in .270 I am all ears. Currently I am using 130 gr Federal ammo for deer.
Thanks.
Fwiw my friend who solely hunts with his .270, also uses exclusively Remington core lokts. Says you don't need anything fancier- it gets the job done
I know a heck of a lot of others who do too.
Post by: brew on May 17, 2017, 07:32:56 PM
Why do I always have to look up stuff that I already know.thank you for providing a site that disputes the information you have given....yes in some instances the 243 will shoot flatter than other cartridges but you are comparing apples to oranges. you are comparing 243 winchester ballistic tip bullets to "regular" core lock type bullets of the 270 and 30-06. On the site you linked a 243 95 gr ballistic tip bullet with a 100 yard zero will be 10" low at 300 yards and a Kenetic engery of 1227 ft lbs. A 270 shooting 130 gr ballistic tip bullet will be 10" low at 300 yards with a 100 yard zero with a Kenetic energy of 1689 ft lbs. a 30-06 shooting a ballistic tip 150 gr bullet will hit 13" low at 300 yards with a 100 yard zero and have a Kenetic energy of 1746 ft lbs...that info took me about 3 minutes to find on the site you provided so i don't hate me for checking the facts...i would rather have 1/3rd more kenetic energy at target than worried about an inch or two of miscaculation...maybe this is a "teachable" moment for you
http://gundata.org/blog/post/243-ballistics-chart/
http://gundata.org/blog/post/30-06-ballistics-chart/
http://gundata.org/blog/post/270-win-ballistics-chart/
If you find a better source let me know ,please dont hate cause you may not know something I'll teach ya.
Post by: WA hunter14 on May 17, 2017, 07:46:25 PM
:chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:Anything less than a GAU-8 is unethical for elk. :tup:
Ethics shmethics.......I'll gat an Elk with whatever is rolling around in the back seat of the rig.
After finishing my beer.........tho
Post by: hunter399 on May 17, 2017, 08:06:06 PM
Why do I always have to look up stuff that I already know.thank you for providing a site that disputes the information you have given....yes in some instances the 243 will shoot flatter than other cartridges but you are comparing apples to oranges. you are comparing 243 winchester ballistic tip bullets to "regular" core lock type bullets of the 270 and 30-06. On the site you linked a 243 95 gr ballistic tip bullet with a 100 yard zero will be 10" low at 300 yards and a Kenetic engery of 1227 ft lbs. A 270 shooting 130 gr ballistic tip bullet will be 10" low at 300 yards with a 100 yard zero with a Kenetic energy of 1689 ft lbs. a 30-06 shooting a ballistic tip 150 gr bullet will hit 13" low at 300 yards with a 100 yard zero and have a Kenetic energy of 1746 ft lbs...that info took me about 3 minutes to find on the site you provided so i don't hate me for checking the facts...i would rather have 1/3rd more kenetic energy at target than worried about an inch or two of miscaculation...maybe this is a "teachable" moment for you
http://gundata.org/blog/post/243-ballistics-chart/
http://gundata.org/blog/post/30-06-ballistics-chart/
http://gundata.org/blog/post/270-win-ballistics-chart/
If you find a better source let me know ,please dont hate cause you may not know something I'll teach ya.
The question was does a 243 win have less drop at 500 yards than a 30-06 or 270 cal .It does have less drop at 500 yards.The question said nothing about 300 yards ,said nothing about engery,velocity,bc,wind drift, or anything else you wanna add .Bending or changing distance to make yourself have the right answer is good for you but not me.Ya it took you 3min to look at the wrong distance and post up something you think is right .DIAPER CHANGED.
Post by: Alchase on May 17, 2017, 08:14:36 PM
So I currently have a Tikka .270 I use for deer hunting. I was thinking about in the future doing some elk hunting and was wondering if I should upgrade to say a 30-06 for elk. Yes I know .270 can take elk but I have read that the shot placement for that caliber must be very precise. Plus I want to be humane. I am sure I have opened a can of worms asking this question but I am just curious what everyone opinion on a good hunting cartridge for elk hunting is. A guy at Cabela's told me about 6.5 creedmor claiming it to be a great round with feet per second for hunting elk. I do not remember what exactly he told me but said the caliber was viable for elk. Looking for help on this before I buy in the fall. Trying to do my research now before hunting season.
Thanks.
Yep can of worms opened and the "package" measuring ensued, lol
Yes your .270 will work just fine, and the only excuse you need to buy a new rifle of a different caliber is
"because you want one"
:hello:
Post by: hunter399 on May 17, 2017, 08:15:33 PM
Here is the quote of the question ?you sure about that??There's a reason the state minimum is .243. ..it'll work. After killing several elk the lesson I've learned is to be a good shot and don't take risky shots.+1 the 243 it will have less drop at 500 yard than a 270 or 30-06 .
Post by: Taco280AI on May 17, 2017, 08:19:42 PM
The only thing that matters for trajectory is knowing where your bullet will be. One shooting flatter than other :dunno:
Post by: Oh Mah on May 17, 2017, 08:48:03 PM
Post by: Ingwe on May 17, 2017, 09:17:06 PM
Post by: Magnum_Willys on May 17, 2017, 09:49:16 PM
.338 Winchester mag, 250 grain nosler partition:yeah:
No one thinks its not enough, no one should think its way too much. Classic !
Post by: hunter399 on May 17, 2017, 10:29:34 PM
Post by: NW SURVEYOR on May 18, 2017, 03:54:41 AM
Post by: Skyvalhunter on May 18, 2017, 05:34:37 AM
Post by: huntingfool7 on May 18, 2017, 05:43:59 AM
I was thinking maybe air rifle for elk ,ya that would be awesome.I wonder if you would hunt modern,or muzzle,with a air rifle or is it even legal in washington,off topic a bit , but on topic with elk hunting .watch and enjoy.Not legal in Washington. Big or small game-no air.
Post by: Duckslayer89 on May 18, 2017, 05:48:38 AM
Post by: bod on May 18, 2017, 08:07:28 AM
Post by: Okanagan on May 19, 2017, 11:58:27 AM
The .30-06 etc. are not enough bigger than .270 to be worth the move, for me. You may spend your money as you please, of course! ;) I've got a .30-06, a .243 and a .22 that cover the bases of what I rifle hunt, but have always kind of hankered for a .375 H&H for elk... :)
Post by: bobcat on May 19, 2017, 12:05:34 PM
Or maybe a 375 Ruger, if you're a reloader.
I just got a 338 a couple months ago so it'll probably be my elk rifle from now on. That is until I get bored with killing elk so easily and "too dead" with it, then I might go back to my 270 for the added challenge.
Post by: Miles on May 19, 2017, 12:10:57 PM
Post by: Curly on May 19, 2017, 12:45:54 PM
http://www.fieldandstream.com/12-best-rifle-cartridges-for-elk-hunting
12.) 6.5 Creed
11.) .270 Win
10.) 280 AI
9.) 7mm Rem Mag
8.) 28 Nosler
7.) 30-06
6.) 300 WSM
5.) 300 Win Mag
4.) 300 Weatherby
3.) 30 Nosler
2.) 338 RCM
1.) 338 WM
Post by: NW SURVEYOR on May 19, 2017, 12:59:12 PM
Post by: Hi-Liter on May 19, 2017, 01:18:52 PM
I told ya, .338.
Yeah .338 is great but heavy. I like my .300 win mag all around, drops them dead no issues.
I have a Colt Sauer .375 H&H that was given to me years ago by my grandfather, never shot it. Its too damn nice of a gun.
Post by: Miles on May 19, 2017, 01:40:03 PM
Here is what a writer for F&S had to say about elk rifles:
http://www.fieldandstream.com/12-best-rifle-cartridges-for-elk-hunting
12.) 6.5 Creed
11.) .270 Win
10.) 280 AI
9.) 7mm Rem Mag
8.) 28 Nosler
7.) 30-06
6.) 300 WSM
5.) 300 Win Mag
4.) 300 Weatherby
3.) 30 Nosler
2.) 338 RCM
1.) 338 WM
Looks like the author is part of the bigger is better crowd. Typical.
Post by: NW SURVEYOR on May 19, 2017, 02:05:30 PM
Grampa would love to look down and see you shoot at least one bull with that .375.
Guns are made to be used, not looked at.
Post by: JDHasty on May 19, 2017, 02:53:37 PM
Here is what a writer for F&S had to say about elk rifles:
http://www.fieldandstream.com/12-best-rifle-cartridges-for-elk-hunting
12.) 6.5 Creed
11.) .270 Win
10.) 280 AI
9.) 7mm Rem Mag
8.) 28 Nosler
7.) 30-06
6.) 300 WSM
5.) 300 Win Mag
4.) 300 Weatherby
3.) 30 Nosler
2.) 338 RCM
1.) 338 WM
Looks like the author is part of the bigger is better crowd. Typical.
I cancelled most magazine subscriptions back in the late 1980's and early 1990's for just this reason.
Post by: Magnum_Willys on May 19, 2017, 03:00:40 PM
Post by: huntnphool on May 19, 2017, 03:34:28 PM
Post by: NW SURVEYOR on May 19, 2017, 04:12:34 PM
He also emphasized shot placement.
I agree that under those conditions the .270 is adequate.
The problem I see is during less than ideal conditions.
I generally get 1 opportunity to shoot an elk during a season.
You take the shot your presented NOW!!
I do not have the luxury that Jack had to wait for the perfect setup.
He could be fairly certain that he would have another opportunity, I do not.
If I have to take a Texas Heart Shot, I NEED penetration.
I want that exit hole to leak like crazy if the elk is spooked and still moving.
We have all shot elk that died real quick, but believe me, the time will come when one will travel, even mortally wounded.
A good blood trail is always nice.
Whatever you choose, be sure you don't error on the side of being under gunned.
With my .338 I don't worry about it.
The same applies to my 7MM Mag, but the .338 gives me a little more confidence.
Post by: Miles on May 19, 2017, 04:19:55 PM
Post by: NW SURVEYOR on May 19, 2017, 04:38:24 PM
Hopefully I have not talked myself into buying a new rifle.
Miles, thanks for the reality check.
I am saving up to pay for a drop camp in Montana for Deer/Elk.
Post by: Oh Mah on May 19, 2017, 05:31:35 PM
Post by: NW SURVEYOR on May 19, 2017, 05:38:49 PM
.338 for me with the 7mm RM as a back up.
My kid shoots a .280.
Post by: Taco280AI on May 19, 2017, 06:25:48 PM
Post by: Oh Mah on May 19, 2017, 06:28:10 PM
Post by: yakimanoob on May 19, 2017, 09:47:38 PM
I am definitely not in the bigger-is-better camp. I'm in the cheap, high-quality, good ballistics, and I'm-not-a-good-enough-shooter-to-shoot-farther-than-400-yards-anyway-so-what-the-hell-do-I-need-a-magnum-for crowd.
Post by: Buzz2401 on May 19, 2017, 10:55:50 PM
Post by: Scheindogg on May 19, 2017, 11:13:33 PM
7mm-08 for me.Lmao this is the reason I'm a .308 guy
I am definitely not in the bigger-is-better camp. I'm in the cheap, high-quality, good ballistics, and I'm-not-a-good-enough-shooter-to-shoot-farther-than-400-yards-anyway-so-what-the-hell-do-I-need-a-magnum-for crowd.
Post by: Alchase on May 19, 2017, 11:26:13 PM
I hear with those big magnums you just need to shoot in that general area and the elk will drop :chuckle:
Works for grouse, LOL
Post by: Jpmiller on May 20, 2017, 07:59:38 PM
I hear with those big magnums you just need to shoot in that general area and the elk will drop :chuckle:
Works for grouse, LOL
I'm half convinced I could walk up to s grouse and grab it to save the shell lol
Post by: JDHasty on May 21, 2017, 08:52:58 AM
Putting a 30-06 above a 7mm RM on a elk killer list is just plain wrong and no 308 win. yet a 6.5 creed has me scratching my head of course I do consider Field and Stream a joke of a magazine.
An industry insider told me that the magazine editors want you to incorporate the "something new" that few presently own and make it all the rage so that more people will buy a new rifle from their advertisers. They want as many references to this newfangled caliber "slipped in" even where doing so is a stretch. It is all about making people want to try what "everyone else" has to see for themselves if the hype lives up to it's claims.
The end goal is to generate a critical mass of "fan boys" and have this take off "organically" and then ride the wave until the whole process starts again with the next "wonder cartridge."
It also sells magazines to the fan boys because they have to have everything that is in print on the subject just so they don't miss anything.
Post by: Alchase on May 21, 2017, 09:05:45 AM
I hear with those big magnums you just need to shoot in that general area and the elk will drop :chuckle:
Works for grouse, LOL
I'm half convinced I could walk up to s grouse and grab it to save the shell lol
Shhhh, don't let the secrect out! :o
Post by: JimmyHoffa on May 21, 2017, 09:07:39 AM
Post by: 700xcr on May 22, 2017, 07:52:51 PM
375 H&H would be sweet for an elk rifle! :tup:375 Ruger Guide Gun with a Nosler 300gr. Accubond traveling 2590fps is my elk rifle. Back up is REM 721 300 H&H shooting 200gr. Partitions.
Or maybe a 375 Ruger, if you're a reloader.
I just got a 338 a couple months ago so it'll probably be my elk rifle from now on. That is until I get bored with killing elk so easily and "too dead" with it, then I might go back to my 270 for the added challenge.
Post by: Allen23 on May 23, 2017, 01:35:35 PM
Post by: Westside88 on May 23, 2017, 02:11:47 PM
Post by: str8meat on May 23, 2017, 05:53:40 PM
Post by: Miles on May 23, 2017, 06:11:45 PM
With bullet performance these days hunting and killing has changed drastically in the last 50 years. You hear about the debates of old from the 50's 60's 70's and today about which is better blah blah blah. I say find a gun that you are confident with and know your range and limitations while hunting and get out and enjoy the woods. I happen to have a .270 WSM and really do enjoy that rifle, I have never hesitated shooting anything with it. I did shoot my bull last year with a .280 Ackley Improved, and after messing around with that cartridge last summer I really like it as well as far as performance!
:yeah: This... and practice! The latest and greatest magnum will not make you a better shooter.
Post by: NW SURVEYOR on May 23, 2017, 06:13:02 PM
Post by: NW SURVEYOR on May 23, 2017, 06:19:00 PM
But deader is better
How can you argue with logic like that?
Rob
Post by: hunter399 on May 23, 2017, 06:19:54 PM
Well almost no one uses #2 and #3 on that list but other than that its close to the order I would put them but I'm used to areas where elk going an extra 50 feet means another 1/2 day pack outa the canyon but I would drop the 30-06 below 7mm mag.
I was catching up on this thread,If 50 feet is a half a days hike then you got bigger problems then your rifle.
Post by: Miles on May 24, 2017, 05:19:27 AM
Well almost no one uses #2 and #3 on that list but other than that its close to the order I would put them but I'm used to areas where elk going an extra 50 feet means another 1/2 day pack outa the canyon but I would drop the 30-06 below 7mm mag.
I was catching up on this thread,If 50 feet is a half a days hike then you got bigger problems then your rifle.
C'mon, you know the Magnumb crowd tends to over exaggerate everything.