re-barreling a gun

[outdooraddict]

I have the first gun i bought years ago a model 70 30-06.  not a pre 64, nothing fancy, heavy wood stock, big front sight on barrel. i don't shoot it, because i don't have much confidence in it, never spent a lot of time with it. always just was sighted in good enough but have killed some animals with it. i got to thinking, the model 70 is a great tight action, i should build myself a rifle i will love. With that said, should i keep the same caliber or change calibers. i know the list i can use with the same bolt face. and where do people recommend to get a barrel. I'm not a long range shooter, not a competition shooter. but want to "build" my own rifle and have it be my go-to.  it would be used for all sized big game in the general area (deer, elk, bear). i already have a .264 that i like. so want to get a different caliber.

[Smokeploe]

I went with a 338-06, it will just take a reboring and chamber work.  This will work for Elk, Deer, Moose and Bear.  It spec, are just below .338 win mag by about 700fps.  It is easy on the shoulder, bullets are easy to get and there are a great many to choose from.  And it maybe less expensive than a barrel change.

Smokeploe

[kselkhunter]

I had JES in Cottage Grove, OR rebore my old -06 to 35 Whelen.  It was the first rifle I ever purchased (used) when I turned 18, and wanted to keep it around so rebored it.  I considered going 338-06 as well.  Both are good calibers to turn a old -06 barrel into, without having to re-barrel. 

If going the rebarrel route, I'd probably go 280ai if it were me. 

[Bob33]

I had JES in Cottage Grove, OR rebore my old -06 to 35 Whelen.  It was the first rifle I ever purchased (used) when I turned 18, and wanted to keep it around so rebored it.  I considered going 338-06 as well.  Both are good calibers to turn a old -06 barrel into, without having to re-barrel. 

If going the rebarrel route, I'd probably go 280ai if it were me.

I did the same: sent JES a 30-06 and had it rebored to 35 Whelan.