.25-06 okay, or should I go bigger?

[rromeo]

I currently have 2 hunting rifles. A Ruger No.1 in .300 Weatherby, and a Weatherby Vanguard in .25-06.
I have been thinking I should be looking for something in .270 or 7mm for more versatility, but should I get rid of the .25-06? Should I get something other than .270 or 7mm?
Basically, what would be my best choice for deer hunting in Virginia?

[dbuckbee61]

the 25-06 is an ok deer rifle caliber...but lacks just a bit in the energy factor. In my opinion, a 30-06 is a fine choice for hunting white tail around here. I've taken literally hundreds with an 06. I know , I know, I know..some are going to swear by the 7mm mag and the 300 mag..which is fine if you're shooting out at 5 to 600 hundred yards. But in Virginia.....you will rarely be shooting that far. Stick with the 30-06...it hasn't been around for over a hundred years and remain the most popular cartridge for no reason.

[gunderwood]

Yes, get a decent .30 cal like .308Win or 30-06 (I prefer 308Win). Don't bother with any of the mags unless you are taking them out west and are going to hunt large game. In these parts you can anchor a black bear with a 308Win no problems.

Most hunters who swear by magnums, but don't shoot past 200 or 300 yards just plain can't shoot. They need the extra power to make up for the fact they gut shot something IMO.

My preferred hunting rifle is the Marlin 1895 SBL in 45/70. I like it because it is handy and lever guns are just cool. Good out to 150-200 yards before the trajectory gets a little steep.

[SgtBill]

Anything in the .30 Cal. will do the trick without being a Magnum .308 0r 30-06
For myself I like a .270 and my handloads for Va. Deer.
Bill

[Vahunter]

Keep the .25-06 it's an excellent flat shooting deer rifle if you need to take a 300 yard or so shot. It doesn't take a .30 caliber or magnum for the deer here in Virginia.

[Palladin]

Keep the .25-06 it's an excellent flat shooting deer rifle if you need to take a 300 yard or so shot. It doesn't take a .30 caliber or magnum for the deer here in Virginia.

.243 has put down many a VA whitetail... 25-06 will do it better.

+1 for keeping the 25-06 - sweet shooting rifle IMO.

[BluemontGlock]

25-06 ... doesn't get much flatter than that...
and as one already said, plenty of deer have been taken with a .243...
25.06 has that beat hands down...not the most common of ammo, but if you load your own...

and you have a .300 already...doesn;t sound liek you need anytihng more for deer, unless you jsut wanna...which is a-ok with me

[jdonovan]

Basically, what would be my best choice for deer hunting in Virginia?

Both of what you have a fine for VA deer... and whitetails in general.

I subscribe to the theory that as long as there is still edible meat left the deer can't be too dead. Did I mention I hate tracking game?

The 25.06 is a great thin skinned medium to long range rifle. The .300 weatherby fits nicely for the things that the 25-06 is a bit too small for.

IMO you have a very nicely balanced 2-rifle battery there. I might choose a .300 winchester for better ammo availability, but thats a minor nit-pick.

If you intend to go after some of the VERY large NA game the .300 Wby might be a bit to small, but if Alaskan bear are not on the to-do list you have a full lifetime of versatility in what you have now.

[SgtBill]

When it is all said and done it comes down to the shooter and shot placement.
Bill

[rromeo]

Thanks guys. I'll keep the .25-06, I love the rifle.