New WT rifle ?

[jr1968]

I want to get a new rifle to hunt WT deer with, my max range is about 140 yards and
are deer weigh at most is about 130 lbs.

I got an old 30-06 and it's heavy, and a lot of felt recoil. Can't decide between a
.243 or 25-06? Can some of you guys give some opinion?

Thanks,
jr1968

 

[wayno945]

I would say 25-06 or 257 Roberts. Given your max range, maybe a lever action 30-30?

 

[JohnB]

jr1968

Either will get the job done. As would the 260, 6.5 Creedmoor or 7mm-08.

JohnB

 

[sask boy]

The 7mm-08 is a great calibre & fun to load for!!
140 gr. is just right for the 7mm-08.

Blessings,
Dan

 

[cloverleaf]

At that range you have lots of options. Any of the above would be great picks. There are some other "unique" options that might fit the bill really well, although I have only had experience with one. The good 'ole 250-3000 Savage would be my choice (of course ) but a 243, a 25-35, a 44 carbine, and host of other "under powered" older rounds get the job done marvelously and come in some really cool rifles. Dont count your '06 out either. Find some remmington "managed recoil" loaded ammo and give that a try. That will do the job. You have landed on a great board for all kinds of support in loading down your '06. There are so many options in 30 cal bullets and lots of load info. I am betting that you could match just about any performance/recoil level you would like. Of course if you just want a new rifle there are several folks here who will "support" you in that decision. For example, A new Savage weather warrior in 250-3000 Savage..... CL

 

[taylorce1]

I agree with CL on this one, .250-3000 sounds about perfect. However, since you have the .243 you might look at a .358 Winchester.

 

[DrMike]

Plenty of choices. I'd say you're only restricted by your own interests. As has been mentioned, even the 30-30 should be in play at the ranges you indicate you intend to shoot.

 

[Guy Miner]

What kind of rifle have you always wanted? Perhaps now is the time to scratch that itch, with something cool.

Say a 7x57 Ruger Number One? Super cool, easy shooting and very effective...

From my own inventory, such a task would likely result in one of these being chosen:

6mm Remington, 700 BDL, 3.5-10x Leupold
.25-06 Remington, 700 CDL, 6x Leupold
.30-30 Marlin/Glenfield, 2.5x Leupold
.308 Win, Browning BLR

Or possibly something else, but those rifles of mine and my two sons really spring to mind. The .25-06 and the 6mm have really proven themselves out at 300 - 400 yards on mule deer, but do a fine job at more modest ranges as well and have very light recoil.

I like that 7x57 Ruger Number One idea though... Might have to do something about that myself!

Regards, Guy

 

[BK]

Geez, am I the only one in their right mind this morning? Whelen! Or, maybe .358 Win. Heck, given the range limitation, .45-70, .450 Marlin, .444 Marlin, .375 Win., .38-55 Win., .32 WS. Coming from the other direction, 6mm, .240 Weatherby (the new Vanguards are pretty cool), .250 Sav., .257 Roberts, .260 Rem., 6.5 Creedmoor...

 

[FOTIS]

Tikka T-3 Lite in 25-06 or 270.

The 270 will make a nice buck up elk gun if so needed.

 

[ScreaminEagle]

my vote is for 7mm-08 or 257 roberts

 

[truck driver]

Well if you can't take the recoil from a heavy 30-06 I would suggest a 6.5 Creedmore or 260 Remington leaning towards the 260 with the little extra punch.

 

[Al in SC]

260 would be ideal. Can shoot up to 14o grain bullet. Perfect for deer.

 

[BK]

May I ask what your old '06 is? Not that I'd stop someone from buying a new gun, but maybe a new stock that fits you a little better might be worthy of a look....

 

[Hegland]

maybe a new stock that fits you a little better might be worthy of a look....

Excellent point. My own old .30-06 has no pad at all, and it continues to surprise me at how tolerable it is.

Of course, if you're intent on a new rifle, nobody here will stand in your way. Any of the .308 or 57 mm derivatives would be a great choice!

 

[HOGWILD338-378]

Vanguard S2, 25-06 would work nice just depends on your budget ?
viewtopic.php?f=9&t=26339
http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewIt ... =379576049 :lol:

 

[muleman]

I would get behind a Mod 70 featherweight in 257 Roberts or 7mm-08.
Scott

 

[DrMike]

Either of those would be very sweet, Scott. My Featherweights have never left me in the lurch.

 

[Vince]

Put me in the 25-06 camp.

More than capable at longer than your 140 Yard distance. Very little recoil and much easier to find, than .257 Roberts, ammunition and reloading components, and last but not least, it gives you decent capability from varmints to medium sized game.

 

[Kodiak]

Look for a 30-06 reduced load offering, maybe a 150 gr. load, put your heavy-wt hunting clothes on and head to the woods. You'll never know when the rifle goes-off when you shoot.

Of course, its always nice to shop for a new rifle.