Rifle Caliber question to the Elk gurus

[bwana72]

Guys,

I just booked a private land hunt in New Mexico for Elk(and Mule Deer). It's not my first hunt for Elk, I hunted with the same outfitter a few years back and killed a nice 6x7. Anyways, I have a Browning A-Bolt chambered in .300 WSM sitting in the gun safe. I am considering using it for this trip. Have any of you used this caliber on Elk, and if so, what were your resluts? The last time I hunted them I used my .338 Win. Mag. Any info woild be much appreciated.

Edited May 28, 2010 by bwana72

[Phredator]

Which rifle do you feel most comfortable shooting? That would be the one to take. Both calibers are equal to the job at hand. I've taken 20+ elk with a 30.06 and have never felt undergunned.

[bearguide]

I agree which ever one you feel comfortable with they will both do the job good luck

[colorado bob]

I've used a 30/06------plus the guys in my camp mainly use the 06. We use 180 grain bullets. I have taken 20+ and probably another 20 with the others in camp. Of those 2 rifles I would probably opt for the 300WSM-----I would use a good bullet------180 grain Nolser Partitions come to mind first. I would site it in 3" high @ 100yards & make sure I had a sharp knife. Good Luck---CB

[bwana72]

Thanks guys...I think I am going to try the .300 WSM. I have used the .338 Win. Mag to take Elk, Caribou, Black Bear, etc. so I do have alot of confidence in the gun and caliber. But the .300 is super light and shoots great. I have it topped with a new Leupold Vari-X 3 4.5-14X50. And I will definately use a good bullet. Nosler, Berger, or Swift. Thanks for the responses guys, good luck in all of your adventures, and maybe we'll meet up along the trail someday !!

[redgreen]

Definately don't feel undergunned with the 300 wsm. I've never used one of them, but do know that a 270 Winchester will fold them quick.

[hunterbobb]

I don't know much about Elk hunting but I do know guns. As everyone has said use what you feel comfortable with.

Since you are using the 300 WSM I would use a 180 gr bullet. I would also make sure it was a controlled expansion bullet such as a Nosler Partion or a Barnes X bullet. Elk are big targets and require a lot of penetration to get to the vitals. Especially if you have a less than ideal shot.

Don't try to save a few bucks by using a cheap bullet. Ammunition is definatly not the place you want to scrimp.

:gun2: