New to rifle hunting? Want to learn to shoot fast and straight? Cut through the information overload. Learn from the mistakes I've made and seen being made over 30 years of hunting. Use my framework to jump several seasons ahead in skills and knowledge so you can make the most of your hunting time (and budget). RESOURCES Framework of checklists you can bookmark: courses.redkettle.co/pages/hunting-checklists 7-step shot checklist: courses.redkettle.co/pages/hunting-phase-5-shoot Free marksmanship course (and detailed checklist): courses.redkettle.co/courses/FREE-INTRO-Practical-Marksmanship-for-Hunters-pt-2-how-to-shoot Full marksmanship course (and in-depth workbook): courses.redkettle.co/courses/practical-marksmanship-for-hunters-pt-2-shoot

Ho-Hum. I'll just pick up my 30-06 and go hunting. It'll work on any game animal in north America at any distant anyone has any business shooting at uninjured game.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

I agree. The 30-06 is a proven cartridge. And it would be my choice for an all-round cartridge. This video was for deer only. Happy hunting!

@johnkendall6962

Жыл бұрын

@@RedKettleEfficientHunting It's more gun than you need for deer but I don't need to wait for a perfect shot placement.. The biggest deer I ever saw in the wild was shot by my father. It was what we jokingly call the Texas heart shot. The bullet entered the at the base of the tail and was found in the skin at the front of the brisket. I'm not sure a lesser caliber would do that.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

@john kendall, I shot my first roe-buck with a 30-06, so it has a special place in my heart. And agree, there's no hesitation with that cartridge. Impressive performance from your father's shot. Thanks for sharing. All the best!

@kristinejackson8268

Жыл бұрын

The 243 is great not much kick great at a hundred yards and below and you don't lose much meat.

@johnkendall6962

Жыл бұрын

@@kristinejackson8268 I had a .243 that I gave my granddaughter when she became old enough to hunt. It's a great deer caliber but you do need to be more selective of your shots than a bigger caliber like the 06. For as few a shots I'm going to get at deer the recoil doesn't bother me.

I actually own all of these cartridges except the 280 Rem and 6.5cm... I do have a 6.5 Grendel and 6.5 PRC. In the end I love all of them for various reasons but my two favorite rifles in my collection of dozens of rifles are both 7mm-08 Remington. Great and very insightful video... thanks!!

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks! I'm glad you found the video insightful. And what a collection. You make an excellent point. There should be room to like a cartridge for sentimental and other subjective reasons. Especially when they're all strong candidates. All the best!

Great video. Great articulation. Move right along at just right speed with great information. =subscribed!

When I chose a deer cartridge, I narrowed it down to 308 or 7mm-08 - though my selection process wasn't as thorough as this. I chose 308 mainly because practice ammo was cheap and I could shoot a lot without too much wear and tear. (I selected a pre-Hawkeye Ruger M77 Mk 2 for the same reasons, even though that rifle has other well-known deficiencies.) This video seems to validate my choice for the type of hunting I do, which is gratifying.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Practice ammo availability and cost is a good point. I picked cartridges that were generally available, but perhaps I should have factored in ammunition cost as well. Although it can vary. Either way, the 308 stands out as particularly strong when it comes to both availability and cost of ammunition. All the best.

@HyksosKhamudi

Жыл бұрын

@spencerbookman2523

Жыл бұрын

@@HyksosKhamudi I hunt mostly white-tails, but the terrain and foliage where I hunt rarely allow a shot beyond 200 yards.

@HyksosKhamudi

Жыл бұрын

@@spencerbookman2523 I hunt on grandpa's land where i live and about the farthest I think I could shoot is 125ish. My 1st deer was about 110 yards, 2nd about 20-25 yards, and 3rd was about 35-40 yards.

Great video. I just got a 7mm-08 this week an was questioning myself if I got the right calibre for a hiking hunting rifle. But watching this help confirm it.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Great. Congrats on your new rifle. As per the video, I think that's a great choice. All the best.

I really like this breakdown and I’m going to share this with all of the new hunters I know

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Tim. I'm pleased to hear you found it helpful. All the best!

Such a well presentable and mature serIes on deer hunting cartridges. Many thanks, it must have taken a lot of your time to compile and create the series.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks, John. I'm glad to hear you like it. Yes, it did take some time. I'd like to post more often, but I want to make sure the content is well-researched and thought-through. All the best!

Fun and informative. IMO learning to effectively use what you have is paramount. Really appreciate the ethical emphasis for hunting. After being a successful whitetail hunter for decades (4+) not one had any comments on what they had been harvested with. 20ga to 300 win mag, shot placement and energy transfer puts meat in the freezer.

Fascinating analysis but comes with some pros and cons. All of the calibres discussion are widely known and understood. At a high level, the calibres are unquestionably appropriate for the quarry. But then come a series of issues 1. Practice - in an ideal scenario, the shooter will spend a good deal of time on the range getting to understand their rifle and calibre. Availability of practice ammunition is therefore a consideration - 243win, 308win, 6.5cm, even 30-06 are available in

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi John. Thanks for your detailed comments! It's great to get your insight and experience. 1. I agree with your thoughts on availability of practice ammunition. And it would have been a good factor to include. But it varies a great deal from country to country. Maybe apart from 308. 2. Yes, the different cartridges come in several bullet weights, shapes and makes. The underlying premise for the review is a sectional density appropriate for the upper end of the CXP2 bracket. To give optimal expansion on that size of deer. You can, of course, mitigate that to some extent with slow-expanding or fast-expanding bullets (when increasing or decreasing bullet weight). You can argue for or against sectional density. In my experience, it does make a difference with regards to meat damage vs how fast a bullet kills. This answer feels like a video in itself so I'll save details for another time. But thanks for raising this great point. 3. Yes. Agree. In part 1 I stated that this is for cup and core spitzer bullets. But as per above, I agree that mono-metal bullets change the picture greatly. 4. Agree. I picked CXP 2 size animals (50-300 lbs), but that's still a great difference in body weight. It would probably be helpful to split this group in two. The killing power score is not a perfect metric, but I hope that viewers get a sense for how suitable a cartridge/bullet combination is for the different sizes along that scale. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts and observations. Other viewers will undoubtedly benefit. And I will include further comments in a part 4. Maybe even part 5... :-) All the best.

@adam-k

Жыл бұрын

@@RedKettleEfficientHunting Could you review the subsonic 8.6 Blackout for deer hunting? It is quite controversial. I have my doubts but others swear by it.

Personally my favorite caliber now is the.243 100 grain.low recoil and spot on placement for fast humane kill

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

It's a good recipe. I've shot a lot of fallow with my 6XC (basically the same as your 243). My preference is to use something bigger when huynting bigger deer at longer ranges. It gives me an excuse for more rifles. But as you say, it's easy to spot, and a 100-grain bullet has a high SD. All the best!

@robertswitzer3630

Жыл бұрын

Mine too. The white tail and Axis where I hunt usually don't exceed 100 lbs and shots are always within 200 yards.

@jeffreywilson690

Жыл бұрын

243 win 115 vld .568 g 1 bc @ 3040 fps 1000 fpe @700 yards

@kjmdrumz3

Жыл бұрын

I agree. Where I hunt (usually under 250 yards) I prefer my 😮 5.56 AR. If I know there’s a decent possibility of a longer shot, I’ll grab the .243 Win. I’m talking medium sized whitetail deer. I wouldn’t hesitate to shoot 400+ with the 243. But then again, I’ve spent countless hours loading, practicing, building my charts, etc. I know EXACTLY what my rifles and loads do at distance. Most of the “hunters” I’ve met that need a .30 or larger couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn if I dialed it in for them.

@carfvallrightsreservedwith6649

Жыл бұрын

​@@jeffreywilson690 115 grain? You're running a faster twist rate barrel......

I admire the way you compared these cartridges. It gives everyone a chance to select the best cartridge for their use. I from the old school hunters that faithfully use MPBR but never considered wind when calculating it. Thank you. I'm not exactly unbiased since I've been using 7mm-08 for decades. Realizing its not the best for CPX3 game I reloaded 160 grain bullets for moose and was hoping to get good presentation when the possibility of a shot occurs. I did shoot 2 moose with this load. First one was a close quick broadside shot that wasn't exactly the best placement. It ran about 75 yards. It was a high lung liver shot. However the second moose was quartering towards me at over 200 yards (my theoretical limit if it wasn't a good penetration). The accompanying moose had turned and headed back in the woods and I had to shoot now or risk having a much more difficult shot with the moose quartering away so I decided to take the shot. To my surprise it fell right there. It tried to get back up and I was ready for a second shot but it never happened. So like you table says, the 7mm-08 can be used on CPX3 game with the right bullet, shot selection and limits. BTW, on the first moose, the bullet hit a rib on entry and was found in a rib on the off side so pretty good penetration for a close shot. I couldn't find the bullet on the second shot because it was probably in the gut but you can't complain about the results.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Denis. Thanks for sharing your experience. It's great to hear you have good experience with the 7mm-08. You obviously know what you're doing. On paper, the 7mm 160 grain bullet should work well for a moose size animal. And it's great to hear you had such good results. Btw, it's great to hear you had a clear idea of what your limits were with that combination. That kind of planning and forethought resonates well with me! All the best!

@denisleblanc4506

Жыл бұрын

@@RedKettleEfficientHunting Thanks. BTW, I'm hoping to work out a new load with 160 gn Trophy Bonded Tip. Preliminary test says my rifle can stabilize it to 100. Now if I could get some StaBall6.5 I could finish load development for a new moose load.

Very interesting how both your lines for 7-08 and 270 overlap. I have extensive personal experience with both and agree the 7-08 has the same terminal performance as the 270 and is the ultimate whitetail cartridge

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Steve. Thanks for sharing your experience. I don’t have experience with the 7mm-08 and must admit I got a little surprised. But I now have a newfound appreciation for this cartridge. All the best.

Excellent videos.....if ammo availability is a concern the 308Win, 30-06, 270Win and 6.5CM have a significant advantage in price and availability. Try buying a box of the Excellent 7mm08 or 280Rem or AI in a small town in the rural Southern US.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks! And thanks for your input. That's a good point. And one I probably shot have included in the video. I didn't, as I thought it was difficult to say something that applied globally. But on second thought, the 308 in particular might be a number on when adding this perspective. All the best.

Great logical analysis. 7-08 is my favorite as well. The only thing “wrong” with 30-06 is some shooters flinch and muff their shots. Lighter recoiling guns are highly recommended for new shooters

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. Yes, that's a good point. Even if the 30-06 doesn't have crazy recoil, I suppose it's enough to get some shooters to flinch. Thanks for pointing it out.

@adrianvanwyck2818

Жыл бұрын

I find the 30-06 recoil very jumpy as a shoot a 300wm and 308 with no problems but with 30-06 I can hit nothing

The 7mm-08, 6.8 western and 6.5 PRC are all similar to the 270 win. The only difference is that those calibers tend to be less available in the US. I'd go with 270 win over all of those b/c the recoil is negligible, availability and you can't argue against the performance (on CXP2 & CXP3) and versatility (close, long range, woods, etc.). Excellent video. thanks

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Rick. Thanks. Yes, it's a close race for those candidates. And the 270 is a sound choice (I own one). All the best!

@southerntriplej8061

Жыл бұрын

well in the south part of the USA the 708 is very popular. its my favorite cartridge. I sold my 270 because I can get the same performance with less powder and I reload.

@Lure-Benson

Жыл бұрын

In the Pacific NW the commercial ammo for 6.8 Western and 6.5 PRC is in every store selling ammo. Zero shortages on these 2 cartridges. 270 win and 7mm - 08 is absolute gone from any stores selling ammo. Only a month ago did deer gun 30-06 ammo again showed up at stores.

@JGray1968

Жыл бұрын

Unfortunately, ammo availability is too often a factor in choosing a deer rifle, but I've found a way to use it to my advantage. Damn, I can't find ammo for the .308, 7mm-08, .30-'06, .25-'06, 7mm Rem Mag, 6.5 Creedmor, or .338 Win Mag; so I have to buy a .280 AI rifle for deer season.

@Lure-Benson

Жыл бұрын

@@JGray1968 I don't think store-bought ammo has anything to do with what a person chooses when buying a rifle. The Choice of buying a rifle chambered is more to do with what the hunting is in a region of the US. I am currently in the Pacific NW in NW Oregon where we have Hugh mountains and massive canyons that East coast deer guns like the 308 and 30-06 and cartridges bases on the 30-06 just don't cut it for Roosevelt Elk and shooting black tail deer of Mule deer over massive wide canyons. Here in the Pacific NW are the 7 mm magnums the 300 magnums - 338 magnums and anyone using those deer gun 30-06 normally use them for a specific use where game is very close under the 100-yard mark. Here is pretty dominate the 300 magnums of all the cartridges in 300 mag. Here the 6.5 Creedmoor fad has dies down and the rifles are the most seen used guns up for sale when the hunters come to realization the 6.5 Creedmoor just is a wimp of a cartridge and won't cut it here for hunting.

My situational demands are primarily in dense wooded marsh at very short range [

I was looking at calibers for my wife a couple years ago for hunting out here in Montana. I was looking for an efficient cartridge that wouldn’t be overkill for things as small as pronghorn, but would be sufficient for elk and moose within a specific hunting distance (500 yards and in for deer, 300 and in for elk). My analysis was based on using the Hornady Superformance line with the GMX projectile, and I came to an identical conclusion. The 7mm-08 Remington, 7 mm Rem Mag, and 270 Win ended up being the most balanced of the three cartridges when wind drift, drop, kinetic energy, and recoil were all considered. Ended up going with the 7mm-08 and the Superformance GMX loading, and it has not disappointed. We’ve tagged deer from 80-just past 300 yards with it, all have been one shot kills and all have practically dropped where they stood. The exception was an older doe that winded me and my dog before the shot was broke. Even then, she went a total of 20 yards before kicking over dead.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Great to hear we got to the same conclusion Patrick. I think the GMX projectile is a sound choice when also you use it for elk size animals. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience. All the best!

Great video thank you!

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

2 ай бұрын

Glad you liked it!

Good analysis, good video. It leaves out 4 cartridges that are excellent choices for most animals up to moose. They are: .284 Win 7mm WSM .300 WSM .325 WSM (favorite) I would enjoy listening to this same analysis for the above cartridges. Regards, John Bucks County, PA

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi John. Thanks! I had to leave out a lot of proven cartridges. I am planning more of the same type and have made a note of the ones you mention. Right now I'm researching 7mm for myself. So the next one will be about that caliber. I've made a note of the other calibers for future videos. I will check out the .325 WSM - it's not one I have any experience with, but it looks interesting. All the best.

@Lure-Benson

Жыл бұрын

You must not have a clue that all moose aren't the same Spieces and not the same in size because in Alaska where the largest of all moose lives these are the Yukon moose which are Hugh in size and are well over the size of the Shiras moose in the lower 48 states. Yes, the cartridges you listed do kill moose in Alaska, but you risk your life shooting Yukon moose with these cartridges because it is common to get charged by these moose which don't go down easy shot with small rifles or rifle of 30 cal or less. The other problem that can turn a life or death for the hunter that use deer guns in Alaska is the bears either by accident is a chance meeting or the bear found the dead moose before the hunter then it can turn into a bear attack and the hunter has a deer gun to defend them self with which 90% time the bear wins that attack of a deer gun is used. I am telling you from my 26 years living in Alaska and operating a hunting - fishing guide services in many parts of Alaska. I have shot one cow moose in Alaska using a 6 mm - 284 win through both lungs, it put her down but didn't kill the moose, when I walked up she got up and charged me, dumb me shoots her in the head with a 9 mm handgun that stunned her, then she came at me again causing me to use the 6 mm - 284 again hitting her head on in the brisket putting the 6 mm 100 grain partition bullet through the heart putting her down again and for me to shoot her in the head with the 6 mm - 284 . The minimum for Alaska is always a 338 magnum and the 375 Magnums & 416s are as popular as East coast deer gun 30-06.

Exceptionally well-done analysis and superb video! I've seen a couple of one-shot kills with my son's .270, and dozen's taken with a friend's .270 Weatherby. I've shot a few deer with my beloved 30'06, Winchester Model 70, and hogs too with both factory and hand-loaded Nosler Partitions, so I love my 06! But if I was 10 years younger, and wanted just one deer rifle, I too would opt for a 7mm 08!

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Ron. Thanks a lot. I'm glad you like it! Thanks for sharing your experience. I too, have several cartridges I enjoy shooting. And the 7mm-08 is now very much on my radar. All the best!

@jeff0nyschuk670

Жыл бұрын

270 Weatherby..bullets $$$$

@carfvallrightsreservedwith6649

Жыл бұрын

.257 caliber.., .25-06 (Oooo, in a Weatherby) with fast twist barrel slinging 130 grain Bergers or Blackjacks. Things Dreams are made of.......

Great video. As I've always been told, knowing what your cartridge is capable of and working within those capabilities is the most important thing to hunting. My great-grandfather took a citation elk with a .257 Roberts. He knew what ranges his rifle would be effective at and hunted within those parameters and came home with a beauty of an elk. Im a big fan of the 7x57 mauser cartridge, but im not going to try and take an elk at 400+ yards with it, because it's not going to perform well at that range on that big of an animal.

Shot placement, relative cost and availability of ammo, and how often I can practice with a particular cartridge will always determine how well I can take whitetails in central Kentucky. .308Win, 6.5Creedmoor, 5.56x45, and 7.62x39 are typically my go-to rounds. I've never had any issues with any of them. But if I had to choose one, I'm going with .308Win.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

In the light of availability, I'm wondering if the 308 should have taken a price. I'm debating with myself if I should get a 308 again.

I hunt deer and black bear in dense woodland habitat, so close range, 100 yard maximum. I’m trying to have minimum kick recoil because I don’t want to damage my shoulder which has been totally replaced surgically. I was going to go with the 243 but bears are in the area and encounters are going to happen. What caliber do you think would fit my unique situation?

I long ago came to basically the same conclusions. I use the 7mm-08 for most of my deer hunting. Out in the open valleys it’s the 280 Remington. I bought a Kimber 280 ackley last year and it is a laser beam. But really it’s only about 3% more capable than the Remington. Usually I only get 60-70 FPS more with the ackley so the difference is fairly small if you already have and like a Remington 280. If I didn’t reload these would be replaced by a .270 Winchester just because it’s so common. I hunted with .30-06 for several years but once I developed shoulder arthritis that extra recoil because annoying - but if you’re young, have at it.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Frank. Thanks for sharing your experience. It's great to hear we're on the same page. I have my eyes on the 280 Ackley, but as you say the gains are marginal over a 280 (or 7x64 as I have). All the best!

In the Woods the good old 30/30 will put meat on the table every time. In the fields any of the here mentioned cartages will do just fine. In the back country a 7mm rm or 300wm are ideal. Picking a caliber and platform to shoot it out of has everything to do with where one is hunting, what one is hunting, what one can shoot well and one’s personal preference. But if one has to pick an all round do it all. Go bigger. Remember that “a big knife can do a small job, but a small knife can’t do a big job.” That is as true with guns as it is with knives. Good luck, have fun and be safe.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Great perspectives. I particularly like your point point about understanding where and what one is hunting. Thanks for sharing and all the best!

Hornady 150 grain SST 308 has never failed me. I am currently building a 6.5 creedmoor though. And my next build will probably be a 6 ARC.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Joe. I bet you've had great experience with that combination. I love the 6.5's and suspect one will make it back into my gun cabinet in a near future. If we could buy AR's around here, I would be very interested in the 6 ARC. Good luck with your builds.

Interesting, thanks for sharing. I suppose you have used led core bullets for your comparison. Would be interesting to see if it would change if you would use monolithic bullets? For me, I have found that in my 20“ .308 the ballistics and max range (min velocity for projectile and energy) are better with 150gr bullets while it does not matter es much for the 30-06 where I use 168gr bullets.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Yes, I based this on spitzer lead core bullets. And I agree, using monolithic bullets will change that picture. One critical factor would be finding bullets that will stabilize in your rifle. Mono bullets are longer at the same weight and require a faster twist to stabilize. That's not really something inherent to the cartridge, but to your rifle. You can get away with a lower sectional density with monolithic bullets, which also changes the picture. I have limited experience with that type of bullet, but it's something that's on my mind, as I'm soon required by law to use them (where I live).

@mikeberger6664

Жыл бұрын

@@RedKettleEfficientHunting I heard from Hornady, and that equated also to what I use, which is: look for a muzzle velocity of around 850m/s, this will ensure that you will have a somewhat descent range before the projectile reaches its minimal expansion velocity of approximately 650m/s (which is debatable and depends on the projectile). RWS gives their max range on their box which equates to a velocity of approximately 700m/s. In a nutshell, monolithic bullets need speed… but when you over do it you will get blood shot meet if you do not have enough, you will not have enough speed and they will not open up… Interesting for the comparison would be to also see the max range depending on velocity. Last year I made such a comparison of all common calibers and projectiles (in Europe). If you would be interested I can send it to you.

@untermench3502

Жыл бұрын

@@RedKettleEfficientHunting Here in Maine, you could hunt for a lifetime and never get a shot over 100 M. I used to be a 30-06 fan because the brass was dirt cheap and there was a great selection of bullets available, now, the availability favors the 308. I also found that, at close range, the meat damage from the 30-06 was undesirable, and as one friend put it: "..you have to decide which end of the deer you want to keep." The trend to monolithic bullets also affected my decision to shift to the 308. The rifle I have has a 1:10 twist rate, so it favors the monolithics, now the problem comes to muzzle velocity, which the monolithics need to expand properly. settled on the 150 grain Nosler E-tip factory load for hunting. I get good expansion, plenty of energy and moderate recoil, as well as more than enough accuracy for the job at hand.

Excellent reasoning here...good video!...Thanks

When you consider that the 7-08 is just a shortened 7x57 Mauser loaded to higher pressures I have to give it to the 7-08 based on the wide availability of 7-08 ammo which is no longer true of the 7x57. But I'll keep my Ruger m77 in 7x57 as I can hand load a 120gr bullet to 3000fps for plains game, a 140 gr at 2750 for deer in hill country and 175gr at 2575fps for bear and moose. No elephants here so I don't have to worry about Bell's fmj load for those.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

I think the 7x57 and the 7mm-08 are close to being identical performers. I left the 57 out due to availability. But I agree that you're well set up with your 7x57. All the best.

Love the 6.5 Swede caliber for the smallish deer we have in Socal...308 WIN tears them up. Short range...hard to beat a 45/70 tho. Drops everything like a stone

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

I like the 6.5 Sweede too! I've never owned a 45/70, but it's on the list :-) All the best!

Very good review of all the calibers. Obviously this would be a 20 part series if you went into every detail and possible variable with every cartridge. Shooting 300 yards to me is nearly unheard of because the 2 places ive lived where ive hunted dont really allow for more than probably 200 in most cases unless you stumbled on an open field. This is why the .308 stuck out to me, under the 300-400 yard range it doesnt move in any direction that much and doesnt lose that much of its energy, still packs a punch in terms of energy as well as having the largest base wound channel due to caliber of most common rifle rounds. However if you are out west where 300 yards might be considered a short shot in wide open plains then .308, while possible to use, is likely not as good a candidate as the other more aerodynamic and flat shooting cartridges.

Well I am 62 years old and I am a Reloader and my Rifles for Antelope Whitetail Deer, Mule Deer and Caribou is the 6mm Rem and the .264 Win Mag. The 6mm Rem was my first Big Game Rifle when I was 14 years old and when I think the range will be longer I use my .264 Win Mag with a Nosler 130gr AB at 3208 FPS. I started carrying the .264 Win Mag in the middle 1980’s after my .270 Win Rifle jammed. To this Day there has never been a deer sized animal I could not have taken with the 6mm Rem and even the Antelope I took a 500.+ yard Antelope I had shot with my .264 Win Mag. I have hunted Iowa South Dakota Wyoming Colorado Montana Idaho and Alaska just FYI. In the factory calibers you listed a .270 Win would be my pick as it is and always been a very well balanced Deer and Antelope cartridge. For larger Game and Bears I just use a 300 H&H Mag with a Nosler 180gr AB. For what it’s worth If I had to have one rifle it would be the .280 Rem with a rifle with a 24-26 inch barrel and reloaded to it’s full potential. In 40 years of Big Game hunting my average shot on a deer has been just over 200 yards and Antelope right around 300 yards.

Exceptional analysis. Very good way of evaluating cartridges. If one is constrained to factory ammo choices and availability, then the 280 might not be the best choice. If you're a smaller framed hunter, then the 7mm-08 is a wonderful choice particularly if you're hunting woodland areas and CXP2. For CXP3, I'm more inclined to go with at least the 30-06. That said, in general, I completely agree with the recommendations. I like that you brought up velocity vs. diameter and that higher sectional density with larger diameter is more useful for upper-end CXP2 and CXP3 game, while velocity plays a larger role for mid-sized CXP2 and smaller. 7mm-08 and 280 are wonderful cartridges. In my experience, for the same energy levels, I shoot heavier bullets with larger caliber better than the small fast cartridges. In my opinion, optimal selections are monolithic bullets (e.g., Barnes tsx) in: Woods CXP2: 30-30, 350 legend, 7mm-08, 308 (Top picks: 30-30 lever action or 7mm-08 bolt action) Open country CXP2: 25-06, 270win, 6.8 western, 280AI (Top pick: 270win bolt action) Woods CXP3: 45-70, 30-06, 338 federal, 358 win, 35 whelen, 9.3x62 (Top picks: 45-70 lever action or 30-06 bolt action) Open country CXP3: 30-06, 6.8 western, 280AI, 7mm rem mag, 7prc, 300wm, 300wsm, 338wm (Top pick: 7prc bolt action) If you only have one rifle, then 30-06, 3x9 scope will handle 99% of big game hunting. Winchester M70 and CZ 550 fan here. Thanks for the great video.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

2 ай бұрын

Thanks! And thanks for sharing your experience. And I agree that the 30-06 is a great allrounder :-)

All of my deer hunting is a 100 yards and less, so cartridge doesn't matter that much. The rifle seems more important. Most of my deer hunting has been with the 8x57 and .30-'06. Others have worked as well, but haven't found a reason to change. Someone starting fresh or looking for something smaller can put your info to good use.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks. Yes, at 100 yards max all of them will do a good job. All the best.

@Lure-Benson

Жыл бұрын

@@RedKettleEfficientHunting Oh really all deer hunting is done 100 yards of less. This comment shows you have a deep lack of understanding what is past where you live and ignorance about hunting such places from Nebraska west to the deep miles of canyons of the Pacific NW. The cartridges you listed are popular for East coast where shooting is short range but get to the wide-open lands of Nebraska and states of the west and Pacific NW those cartridges can limit a hunter's range for hunt deer. I have hunted many years in Eastern Oregon over near flat sage brush lands and same in Idaho where deer see you from ranges the cartridges you listed the deer are out of range and they see you very easy then scatter really fast. I'm always amazed at the deer that are so in tune to their surrounds that even using caution by creeping up a ridge to look over in a valley often the deer are already looking your way knowing something is up and not right so be alert. I also hunt Utah and again the mule deer here are so in tune to what is around them the only deer I see already knowing I am there or something is wrong and looking up are deer out to 300 yards and farther. The only way to take down these deer is with a large magnum rifle that still have a large energy transfer at longer ranges. If a hit deer gets out of site that can cause extreme bad time looking for the deer so anchoring these deer where it stands is absolute a must do. Any deer or Elk lying flat in sage brush a hunter can look for hours before just stumbling on the dead animal. You need to say in the video this is where I hunt, and these are cartridge that work for where I live.

They are all good.a big factor is not only the cartridge but who his behind the riffle.

For all the stated reasons, it's a shame the .284 Winchester wasn't more popular, as it would seem to offer a little bit more oomph to the 7mm-08 paradigm, without being a long action cartridge or dealing with big magnum recoil pressures and noise.

I agree with you very scientificly set up and well thought out conclusion. However if you ever want to do a follow up video and adjust the criteria for 100% copper bullets which are required in California and a few other States. In short they need 2200-2400FPS or so to properly expand so this will favor the 270, 280. relative to maximum effective range. 2nd consideration is Jealifed/cronic meat damage that happens when a bullet hit at about 2800FPS and above. This is a consideration when you use the same 06 based cartridges. This is why 6.5 Creedmoor and 7mm shine for being able to maintain killing power yet be not ruining some of your best back straps etc.. if you stumble on that buck at 50 yards. p.s. I bought a 6.5 Creedmoor then started having regrets as I reviewed the amazing 7mm 08, however based on ammo availability, bullet choices 6.5 95grain varmet option etc.. they are extremely close with only having small trade offs. I submit the perfect cartridge is the one probably being deveoped as we speech 7mm PRC... with high BC/SD bullets Now that would be a sweetspot, especially if adopted by military snipers and the market so the $$ gets driven down. Can't hate a guy for dreaming!

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Mark. Thanks for your reply! I totally agree. Copper bullets will change the picture. I ran the review based on lead cup and core, as I am only just getting experience with copper bullets. From next year they will ban lead where I live, so I've started using them. Great points on velocity. And I hear what you say with regards to availability between 6.5 CM and 7mm-08. I think both are good choices. The test is based on average numbers. I'm keeping an eye on the 7mm PRC. I'm very interested, but the challenge around here is components. Hopefully that will change. Definitely :-) dreaming is important! All the best!

Dang, on point with my analysis. I have 6.5 and .308 for my hunting purposes. I wanted a 7mm-08 but ammo availability kept me from going with it.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Great and thanks for your input. Based on your comments and ones from other viewers (globally) I wonder if the 308 is the real all-round winner when factoring in the availability of ammunition.

@mr.mr.3301

Жыл бұрын

The solution is just buy it on line.

@Bigfish1day

Жыл бұрын

@@mr.mr.3301 🤣🤣🤣🤣, Guess you haven’t looked lately, only the main stuff is out there.

@stevemccall6201

Жыл бұрын

Not a problem if you reload. Just run 308 brass through your 7-08 die

@Bigfish1day

Жыл бұрын

@@stevemccall6201 Sounds good but $1000+ for equipment and supplies would be a waste of money for me. I shoot less tan 10 rounds a year. I shoot 3 shots to verify sighting is not off, and kill 3 deer.

Down here in Georgia my Bergara 6.5 Creed handles business the most yardage is maybe 200 to 300 yards and I get very good terminal ballistics energy on medium to big Bucks and then I can go shoot a match.

CXP... can you explain or link to an explanation

No magnums? No Westrrns? No PRCs? I like this giuy.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks, John :-)

In the piney woods 🪵 the 30-30 wit open sights is perfect. I also have an open sight Mauser in 30-06. 338 for elk.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Randog. The 30-30 is a great cartridge. I didn't include it here as I wanted to focus on bolt action cartridges. All the best.

The .270 has been my caliber of choice for almost 50 years. My model 700 has killed more whitetails than I can remember and I've never lost one. It's also accounted for several truckloads of hogs. No need to change this late in the game.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Ray. The 270 is a proven recipe, and you obviously know that from first-hand experience. This is a close race. I personally don't have a 7mm-08. Although I'm now intrigued by it, I'm not running to the shop to get one. But at least I have an excuse to get one now :-) All the best.

It’s a shame 7mm-08 isn’t more available on store shelves, at least where I’m located in the United States, specifically Pennsylvania. Years back you could find it, maybe 3 or 4 boxes on a shelf…nowadays I haven’t spa box of 7mm-08 in some time. I can find it online but that’s not always a perfect solution. I actually considered a 7mm-08 quite recently because I found an amazing deal on a Steyr Pro Hunter in that cartridge. For me though, the availability of factory ammunition in the places I live and shop dictate the winner. I can find 243, 6.5cm, 270, 308 and 30-06 basically everywhere…6.5prc also but I’m not ready to navigate that cartridge rabbit hole yet. For me I use 6.5cm and 308 and they cover my needs. I hunt two different areas, open terrain with shots out to about 300 yards and dense woods with shots less than 100 yards. I take the 6.5cm when I’m in the open area and the 308 when I’m in the thicker stuff. I wouldn’t mind a 270 but I’ve found that with proper bullet selection my 6.5cm is quite capable. It’s often overlooked, but I wish there was also more love for the 25-06.

Nice video. But my friend I've been a Ballistician for over 50+ years. Hunting, Load developing, re-loading. and Long Range Competition shooting mixed with a lot of silhouette shooting in both small and large bore Hand gun and Rifle. In all those years the three cartridges that gave the greatest results in knock down power, accuracy and Long range capabilities were the 243 Winchester, the 30-06 and the 270 Winchester. By far the one that gave the most surprising results was in fact the 270 Winchester. It can and does beat the 6.5 Creedmore hands down. I have loaded my 270 with 145grn Hornady ELDX bullets to just under 3200fps with a .315 Sub MOA grouping with a 24 inch barrel. It really shines with a 26 inch barrel. I recently shot a nice 4 point Mule deer at 510 yards with it, loaded with the Nosler 130grn BT bullets at 3200 fps. One shot and it hit it like a Freight Train. Normally I would never take a shot like that at that distance. I'm a beleiver in no more than 300 yards on any Big game animal. But in this case i had some unforseen circumstances and I knew my Rifle and the ballistics on the load and took the shot. The .243 is another that really does surprise you. But the old War Horse 30-06 is what I prefer on Larger game like Elk. But regardless of the recoil I love it for deer hunting with a 150grn bullet. They go 3100fps and knock em down real hard. Lastly there is the issue of ammo availability. I can go to any Walmart or Gun shop, Ace hardware ETC, and get ammo far cheaper than the 6.5 Creedmore or PRC or these other new fangled fad cartridges. All said and done, it's the real world Hunting I compare cartridges with. And for over 100 years the 30-06 and the 270 Winchester have been dealing out phenomenol killing capabilities on many Large game. Same with the 243. But it shines on Varmints too.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Dennis. Thanks for sharing your experience. All the best!

Would like to know how 6.5 Swede versus 6.5 Creed. I inherited my dad's Swede and my son recently bought a Creed.

@raytyre750

Жыл бұрын

Folks around here call it the 6.5 Losemore.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Doug. In my experience, the mid-size 6.5s have similar performance for hunting. The CM might be more accurate with factory ammo and off-the-shelf rifles as it's a newer design with tighter tolerances in the specs. Having said that I've owned two 6.5x55 and they were both sub-MOA. I agree with the numbers in the video. I don't think either cartridge is the optimal choice for the very largest deer in the CXP2 or CXP3 (elk) size animals. Other than at shorter ranges (say, 100 yards). Or if you use neck shots. Swedish moose is always used as an example of how capable the 6.5x55 is. But they are not as big as North American moose. Hunters usually use heavy (160 grain) bullets. And hunting takes place in dense woodland so ranges are often no longer than 50-100 yards. there are other factors, like ammo and component availability, but it seems like the 6.5x55 is now more common in the US (assuming that's where you're from). All the best!

I'm in love with the 7mm-08, great performance and light recoil.

At my age I've endured dozens of vids and articles on this subject. Cartridge selection depends entirely upon what you plan to hunt and within that definition there always exists multiple cartridge choices so selection should be easy, particularly when you keep in mind that shot placement is the killer, not the cartridge. For example, I normally shoot a .257 Roberts for which I handload. I've used that little rifle since Remington introduced that caliber in its Mountain Rifle and I've killed deer and hogs with 95 through 120 grain bullets at ranges of 200 - 250 yards and all were one shot kills. With the heavier 120 grainer I would not hesitate to kill elk or caribou with that round. Likewise, I've taken several deer with a .22 Hornet at under 200 yards with shots to the throat with 45 grain handloads. I cannot remember when I had to shoot those deer more than once. There is no such thing as a "best caliber" for anything in the non-dangerous game category, anywhere in the US and ostensibly upon the planet but flat shooting rounds are generally better overall than say a .30-30, if distances are long. There are as many calibers for dangerous game as there are for non-dangerous game and one's selection of a caliber for that purpose should be carefully considered because the guns to fire them, and the ammunition for them, are all nearly prohibitive in cost and their overall use isn't great. And then, there is the recoil factor. I'm not too sensitive to it but I'll admit that a .375H&H, a great all around caliber and a minimum caliber for Africa, will still push you around a bit. But it is manageable; not so with some of the African cartridges. The bottom line, pick a rifle in a caliber you like and that you will hang on too. Learn to shoot it and don't worry about what is supposedly the 'best'. All of that is highly subjective and really doesn't matter in the long run.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your experience. I agree that how you use the cartridge is miles more important than what specific cartridge you choose. "Best" is a refernce to help new hunters pick a well-balanced choice. Or give experienced hunters an excuse for a new purchase :-) At the end of the day we have a wide range of tools that will all work well. And it's about picking the one that suits your job best. And, the one means something to you in one way or the other. All the best!

This is a hard question, there are so many amazing cartridges!

I deer hunt in the US states of Tennessee,Virginia and Maryland's eastern shore. For whitetail and Sitka deer. 300yrd shots are tops . A 20" rem 700 in .308 does the job . Small handy rifle.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

That's a great set-up. I keep coming back to the 308. I like the bigger diameter, especially given we've being hit by a lead ban next year. I used to own a Model 700 .308 SPS Tactical 20”. Is that the rifle you use? I agree it's a wonderful compact set-up. Very handy. I shouldn't have sold it.

Completely agree with 308 as a woodland gun. I hunt white tail in the south east US. I use a 308 for its knock down power in heavy woods (sub 150m) AND it’s ease in acquiring. I can walk into just about any store and find 308. Even at the height of the ammo shortages during COVID. Ease of acquisition and insane knockdown power are exactly why I’m a big fan of the 308 for the job I use it for. However, shooting hundreds of meters (like 600 at my local distance range) the 308 begins to show weakness compared to other rounds.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your experience. I should have considered ammo availability in more detail. And with that in mind, the 308 might actually take the first place in my view. All the best!

@Lure-Benson

Жыл бұрын

I can always tell the green horns in hunting by the ignorance they talk about like claiming bullets have knock down power or blabber their fool heads over shot placement which is BS! Bullets kill by the destruction of organs - shock and stopping the oxygen and blood to the organs of the body. And of bullets had knock down power explain why bullets can go through many kinds of metal or plywood and not even knock these things over if bullets had Knock down power. This kind of green horns are who you hear killed another hunter because the green horn heard a sound in the brush then opened fire on sound shots.

@proudtennessean6152

Жыл бұрын

@@Lure-Benson I can always pick out idiots because they post the following things. #1 they don’t refute arguments they merely claim the whomever said something they disagree with is dumb. #2 you cannot even make sense of their post due to the poor grammar and spelling. #3 see below 👇🏻 Allow me to give an example of what when I say knock down power. I’ve been hunting deer off and on for years. I’ve shot 10 point bucks, yearling does and everything in between. With a 308 every single deer I hit goes to the ground. Immediately. Some (1-2 out of the dozens I’ve shot) get up and run a little ways (>200 meter). Most just lay there and die. Where the bullet impacted them. When you shoot a deer in the same area with a .223 or a .243 they may not even fall down and they almost always get up and run away. The key is mass of the bullet and the speed of the projectile. A needle flying at 3,100 fps (5.56 speed) will go right through the body but will not knock anyone over. The mass of the bullet has to be significant enough to transfer energy from the bullet to the target. This energy transfer will cause the target to be knocked down. Hence the term knock down power. Finally, the third and real true way to identify idiots is they will claim or imply they are knowledgeable about a subject and then post something that is not only easily refutable but just plain ignorant. Shot placement is key regardless of what one is hunting. For example. Since you are doubtlessly more familiar with human anatomy than animal, since clearly you are not a hunter, imagine you are hunting a human. If shot placement wasn’t a concern then why shoot in the chest or head? After all a foot shot is just as deadly. Imagine, snipers everywhere hearing all that time they spent on the range to hit a high center chest shot on their target and all they needed was a hit somewhere on the body. Anywhere. Didn’t matter where. Elbows are free game for kills, hand shots, knee shots. In summation. What. A. Dunce!

@Lure-Benson

Жыл бұрын

@@proudtennessean6152 The teenager woke gay KZread groupies can always be picked out from their BS post complete nonsense like claims of knock down power bullets have just mow over and throw animals to the ground or shot placement kills stone dead every animal in its tracks or used metric system to sound big and tough guy when the US doesn't use metric or claims lead bullets are some kind super bullets and believes all Alaskan's hunt brown bears with 10mm handguns or East coast deer guns and thinks all moose and bears are the same spices and make claims the 45 70 is more power than a 50 BMG ! The liar's nonsense is near endless by fools.

@proudtennessean6152

Жыл бұрын

@@Lure-Benson Jesus. I guess I overestimated your intelligence. My apologies. Since I’m clearly arguing with a drunk 12 year old from a country that doesn’t speak English as a first language or evidently own guns I guess I’ll just go back to asking my mounted 10 point on the wall if he thinks I’m a bs greenhorn. Of course he won’t answer. Because he’s dead. But it’ll still be a better conversation than this nonsense your sputtering out.

Please, explain to us why you skipped the oldest ones; the 6.5Swede & 7x57Msr!

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

4 ай бұрын

Good question Johannes. I’m pretty sure I called that out in the first episode. I wanted to limit the cartridges to one and the same capacity groups per calibre. The 6.5 x 55 isn’t that different from the 6.5 CM or the 260 Rem. Not for hunting anyway. And not to warrant including all of them in a single test. I suppose it would be interesting to do a 6.5 comparison to prove that.

I started deer hunting with a .243 , fantastic round, zero issues, well you know how it goes I ventured out one brutally cold morning and walked into a bull elk, hit with a Speer GrandSlam the bull piled up hard. Last year shot my 19th elk with the same gun, same calibre, same handload, same result, full exit out the other side, blood trail was more like a blood bath on the ground. To be honest, Iv never felt under gunned.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your experience!

Used a .270 since my days in the New Zealand Forest Service back in the 1960's. Never seen a reason to change to this day.....

I have been shooting a 6.5x55 Swedish Mauser since the late 80's here in Canada, I shoot 140 grain PSP and have taken hundreds of deer as well as Moose and Elk , the ELK went down inside of 50 yards a big 6x6 , I will take my 6.5x 55 over anything else I have shot

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Jim. The 6.x55 is a great versatile cartridge. And I think it's a fine choice for larger animals like elk when used at shorter ranges like you do. I used the 6.5 as a representation for the medium 6.5s as they share the same hunting performance.

A hunter has to know his personal limitations with his rifle and setup . All the calibers listed and more will do their job on deer with a well placed shot . It’s always good to take your rifle to a range to confirm your equipment is ready before the first hunt of the season . Preparing your hunt to increase your chances of bringing the deer closer to you is part of the hunting success .

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Agree! Thanks for calling this out. All the best.

Where I live I'm going to say 6.5mm creedmoor. But almost anything works .243 and up. I use .243, 6.5 creedmoor, 25-06, .308, and 30-06. The .308 and 30-06 damage a lot of meat unless I use a neck shot. The 25-06 is very nice but the creedmoor is even better. With modern bullets, .243 is more than enough for a whitetail. Our shots here are under 200 yards and most of the time under 100 yards.

In Germany an Europe also the 7,92 x 57 (8mm IS) is used wildly for Deerhunting. But the .308 Win is the mosten used I think.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Richman. Thanks for sharing. I had to leave out lots of great cartridges and wanted to focus on the most commonly available, from an international perspective. Interestingly, the 308 keeps coming in comments from all around the world. All the best!

Good video! What do you think about 6.5 prc?

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks! I should have included the 6.5 PRC as a faster 6.5. I left it out because I wanted to cover generally available cartridges. And the PRC seems like it's less readily available. I think that will change over time. I had a quick look at the numbers for a 120-grain bullet (to match the overall SD of the tested cartridges). And it's a fraction better than the 280 Rem in the wind. And it beats all the candidates for drop point blank range. So if you're shooting in open country, I think it's a great choice. But then you got to ask yourself if it's better to go with the 7mm PRC to get better wind performance. I'd probably say it's down to the size of animal you normally hunt. Small to medium size deer, I think the 6.5 PRC is a great choice. If you plan to shoot larger deer, with a cross-over to CXP3, then I'd go for the 7mm PRC. Or one of the other 7mm with more modern case specs. Which I'm creating a video on right now. I've personally been looking at the 6.5 PRC for a while. Still making up my mind on my requirements. All the best!

@MauserM18

Жыл бұрын

@@RedKettleEfficientHunting thanks for the info! Do you think 7prc will cause better blood trail compared to 6.5 prc?

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi @siyami avci, sorry, I don't get notifications for follow up comments. And yes, I think there will be a difference, in favor of the 7mm. It's not just a 0.5mm difference, as the frontal area is pi times radius squared.

20ga 50 caliber Sabot slugs fill the freezers in Iowa. I have even got 3 deer with my front bumper, now that has some real smack down power.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

You bet, that's real smack down power :-)

You should do something like this for elk size game. Great three videos

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks, Christopher. Glad you enjoyed them. Great idea. I haven't hunted elk, but elk size animals. Even so, I'm hesitant to say too much about an animal I haven't hunted. I suppose it's a good excuse to go and get some experience. All the best.

The plain old 308 and the 30/06 are identical if it's a 22 inch 30/06, and a 24 inch barreled 308, so I'd say that either one is all that I need.

I believe a good determination of the best deer cartridge would come from history. What cartridge has harvested more deer than any other. To this point that would be considered the best by the numbers of deer harvested and no other stats considered. At some point it would change as newer cartridges are introduced and the older cartridge falls out of favor. All these cartridges are quite capable of harvesting deer. I would venture a guess and say in the United States that cartridge would be the .30-.30 at this point.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

That's an interesting and valid perspective, Russell. I didn't include the 30-30 because I wanted to focus on bolt action cartridges. But the 30-30 is a great choice in the woods. As per the video I think frontal area is and overlooked metric to gauge dependability, and the 30-30 is at the top of the cartridges discussed for that number.

Why are the 25 caliber cartridges ALWAYS ignored?

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

4 ай бұрын

Sorry. My bad 😀

Of your list it's the .270 hands down but I've upgraded to the 6.8 western it's the .270's ulterior progression

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

I'm intrigued by the 6.8 Western. We just can't get ammo or components for it around here.

Finding a rifle that fits , to me, is most important to me.

All of them are good shot placement is king

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Well said Warren.

.280 Remington, Barnes TTSX 140 grain, kills Midwestern white tails with authority, took my longest running shot at beyond bragging range allowed for a yard of drop, it was a huge bodied 8 point quartering away at flank speed, went in right shoulder, came out behind left ear...shattered the neck from back to front... I have seen Nosler partition 140 gr. fail at 30 yards and a Federal factory loaded Nosler partition 150gr grenade on a button bucks shoulder at less than 30 yards...

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

that is a proven recipe. I use a 7x64 which is similar to the 280. I've just started using the TTSX in 120 grain and they seem promising. Thanks for sharing your experience. All the best!

The .257 Weatherby Magnum will do for game from antelope to moose.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

I bet Jim. I wanted to review cartridges that are generally more available, which is why your favorite didn't go on the list. Thanks for sharing and all the best!

Best is 7mm-08. But for me the best is the 358 Winchester.

They are all great with a straight shooter.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Great point!

The 30-06 is the grandfather of most of them cartridges and the30-06 is still boss

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Lone Wolf. As per my reply below, the 30.06 has a special place in my heart. I ran this test for deer in the range of 50-300 lbs and the numbers and my experience suggest one can get away with smaller cartridges for that range. But, in terms of authority, I agree that the 30.06 is the boss. All the best!

Worth getting Nathan Foster's extensive literature on this subject.

.308 all day. Wide selection of bullet offerings with bc as high as .7's and grains from 115 to 190. Available in ar platform and during the last shortage was literally the only box of ammo on the shelves at the mart

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Andy, I've thought about this since posting the video. I agree the 308 is a winner based on availability. I'm not sure if bullet availability is much better than 7mm these days, but it's definitely on par. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. All the best!

A person should pick a round that works when everything goes wrong not when everything goes right. A .308 cal. 180 gr. bullet at between 2500 and 2700 is the best. Sensible recoil and blast in a light,short rifle. Ammo is available everywhere. I only wish there was a high quality 4 power scope available to put on top of it. A 2x7 scope is the next best thing. The 2.5x8 Leupold is a nice scope also. Biggest mistake hunters make is buying a scope with a big objective lens and a top power number that is unnessary. I adds unnessary weight to their rifle. As does a long barrel. A 20 inch barrel will get all of the performance you will ever need out of a 308 or 30-06. And will be much nicer to climb into a tree stand with or sneak thru the brush with. I have come to like stainless steel rifles with synthic stocks. Tough and low maintiance. Remember stainless will still rust if not taken care of. My son in law found that out the hard way with his new Kimber Montana rifle. A couple of more things. I want controled round feed on a rifle. It always works. That can not be said for push feed rifles. I also have three position safetys on all of my rifles. Two position safetys can be a pain in the rear if they don't lock the bolt when in safe position. When you go to shoot and the action is open with no shell in the chamber is not a good thing. Also the "slide" safetys like on Rugers Americans and Mk1 rifles have been known to freeze when cold and wet. Ask me how I know that. They also have a terrible habbit of "clicking" when used. A safety that clicks is a deers best friend. Another thing. Don't use WD40 to "protect" your firearm. Use it only to displace water not to protect while hunting. Wax lube like Boeshield protects the best of all of the lubes. It sticks to the metal, doesn't smell and doesn't wash off like oil. I suspect wax baised chain lube would be just as good. Don't use silicone on ANYTHING when hunting. It stinks. Put a balloon or a piece of electrical tape over the end of your barrel when hunting in the rain or the cold. If you get water in the bore and it freezes you have a dangerous situation. Protect your hearing by wearing two stocking hats. They push your ears against your head and cover them to reduce the affect of the blast when shooting at game. Use a "fox" call to call deer. It has worked for me more than once. Use after shave to create a trail for the deer to follow. Use a decoy. Use hearing protection. Treat all guns as if they are loaded 100% of the time.

Really the 7s are where it’s at. It had taken over 100 years for us to realize it. Long rang shooters are going to the 6mm so not sure what will happen with the 6.5.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Yes, it's interesting to see the shift from 6.5 to 6 mm in disciplines like PRS. And I agree it will be interesting to see how it affects trends in hunting.

The best hunting rifle/caliber is a 6.5 prc with a 16.5" barrel. It beats all of the 308/3006 based rounds with 24" barrels. It has less recoil than a 270 win. or a 308 win. . If you dont believe me , DO the stats. It is my goto combo. My long range varminter is the new 22 creedmoor. It outshoots everything but the 6.5 prc with only 9 pounds of recoil.

30.06...hands down. I have NEVER shot a deer and missed or lost the deer. My closest shot is 17 yards...my furthest shot is 348 yards . Of course I live in Florida so with the flat surface longer shots are hard to come by. And the deer are smaller and makes a smaller target.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Will. I agree that the 30.06 is a great cartridge and a guaranteed deer slayer. I shot my first deer (roe buck) with a Remington 700 Mountain Rifle in 30.06. So it has a special place in my heart. I ran this test to find the most balanced cartridge for CXP2 (50-300 lbs) which is why I think you can get away with a smaller cartridge in most cases. Thanks for sharing your experience. All the best!

7mm-08 is great if you are a handloader, the factory ammo options are pretty terrible now adays

I have most of those calibers. For where I hunt l love my .300 Savage. It would take a decent size truck to haul all the deer l have taken with that old gun.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

That's what I like about cartridges. Many have the same'ish performance, but some of them have individual appeal and history for us as individuals.

@kesleycottrell1416

Жыл бұрын

That old 99 Savage seems to be my lucky gun. I have 14 other deer rifles to choose from but if I'm hungry for venison the .300 Savage is going hunting.

Well now, I’ve been rifle killing deer, antelope, elk, wild pigs for nearly 60 years. The BEST? caliber/ rifle combination is the one you can hit the bullseye with. Big bore big thumper doesn’t mean crap if you’re a moron and won’t practice and end up gut shooting or breaking a leg. It doesn’t take 7mm to kill a deer. .223 is used in the American south where deer are small compared to the northern deer. MY personal favorite is a Remington 700 in .270 Winchester. I have hand loaded for years for maximum repeatability. ITS THE RIFLE YOU CAN ACTUALLY HIT WITH is the best. Cool video here.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Well said, Tim! I agree that if legal, the 223 can be a great cartridge for smaller deer. I've shot several roe deer with an old Remington 600 in .222. But in Europe, the .22 centerfire calibers aren't legal for medium deer and up. So I left it out of the review. All the best!

My 30.06 kills whitetail deer 🦌 with pass through shots, better blood trails for tracking but more bone and meat damage. My 243 kills whitetail deer 🦌 with less recoil, less pass through shots for blood tracking. My 270 kills whitetail deer 🦌 dead in their tracks if a high should shot is made with not tracking or loss of meat. I enjoy hunting with all my weapons but the 270 was a later purchase, had it been the first purchase, it likely would have been the only purchase. All stated calibers I mentioned have widely available and economical ammunition and are calibers that aren’t going away anytime soon.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi there. It sounds like we've made the same observations. Thanks for sharing your experience. All the best!

I have a believability problem with the formula that is used, as it appears to be unsupported by the laws of physics. My comments are as follows... The equation specified is: = Kinetic Energy x Sectional Density x Cross-sectional area = (1/2) (M V^2) x ( M/A) x A = [(MV)^2]/2 =MV ...in its basic form for each bullet assessment. In physics, this is described as the "momentum" of the bullet. In this equation, a dilemma as to the correct term for Sectional density needs to be addressed... Sectional density The sectional density of bullet that is often quoted is M/A or M/d^2, where M = the mass of the bullet, A = Sectional area of the bullet, and d = the diameter or calibre of the bullet. There is a dilemma that needs to be addressed as to which is the correct formula to use for the sectional density of the bullet... - a dilemma to be addressed To help overcome the apparent dilemma as to the use of a cross sectional area A = π(d/2)^2 or A = d^2, where “d” is the diameter or calibre of the projectile or bullet; in the sectional density calculation of a projectile; the author offers the following comments... In practice, the sectional density of a bullet is often compared with its ability to effectively kill certain sizes of animals. When used in this manner, it does not matter if the comparator uses A = π(d/2)^2 or A = d^2 in the denominator; as long as either option is consistently used in the comparison process. In this case the coefficient to d^2 is a redundant dimension. However in the author’s opinion, when the sectional density of a bullet is used in the basic comparative manner described above, it is used incorrectly; as there are many things to consider in the terminal ballistic behaviour of the projectile. However given that each bullet has the same terminal ballistic properties, the assessor needs to consider the ability of the projectile to initially punch a hole through bunkers, body armour or bone…, and its ability to create a lethal bullet cavity within the target animal. The basic physics of the recommended alternative approaches are described below: The Momentum Sectional Density - the ability to punch a hole or penetration comparison The terminal energy of the bullet = F x D (F = force, D = penetration distance) = M x a x D (M = mass, a = deacceleration) = M x ∆V/t x D (∆V = terminal velocity V, t = time) = MV x D/t (MV = momentum) Ignoring the D/t component of the energy equation (i.e. this is seen to be adequate from experience), the “momentum sectional density” of the bullet is equal to MV/A, where area A = π(d/2)^2 or A = d^2 for convenience of calculation. Note that d = the diameter or calibre of the bullet. Lethality - the ability to create a lethal bullet hole comparison The terminal energy of the bullet = F x D (F = force, D = penetration distance) = M x a x D (M = mass, a = deacceleration) = M x ∆V/t x D (∆V = terminal velocity V, t = time) = MV x D/t (MV = momentum) Ignoring the D/t component of the energy equation (i.e. this is seen to be adequate from experience), it is assumed that the lethality of the bullet is proportional to momentum of the bullet, times the circumferential length of the bullet hole “C”, e.g., here it is assumed that a larger bullet will generate a larger tissue destroying shock/cavitation wave, and a larger area for the animal to bleed out through. The “lethality” of the bullet in this case is equal to MVC, where C = πd or C = d for convenience of calculation. Combined performance comparison Considering the above discussion, choosing a calibre bullet that has good penetrating power and good lethality can be a daunting task. Hence one possible way to achieve the combine benefits of both considerations is to multiply the basic momentum coefficients together to obtain a combined performance comparison equation: = [d x (MV)^2 ]/ d^2 = [(MV)^2]/d (M= mass, V= velocity, d = calibre) This equation assumes that equal weight is given to the penetration and lethality abilities of the bullets under consideration. How to use these comparisons It is worth mentioning here that if a small calibre bullet has a poor lethality rating, its’ lethality rating my be improved by shooting the animal more than once, as this will improve the chance of hitting vital organs, and by increasing the lethal bullet hole cavity area, e.g. it is not uncommon for small calibre military rifles to have a 2-3 round automatic burst feature for these reasons. It is recommended that the comparator uses the above recommended formulas in conjunction with the ballistic chart characteristics of the gun and cartridge in question, and the recommended limiting penetration or lethality characteristics of the intended target. For example, it is often quoted from experience that a bullet must have a minimum energy of 1,000 ft.lbs (1,356 joules) to be able to effectively kill a deer, or 1,500 ft.lbs (2,034 joules) to kill a, elk or moose, etc. However, it should be noted that a small calibre bullet with a high velocity can have the same momentum sectional density score as that of a recognised cartridge for hunting a large animal like a deer, however at the same time not have the required lethality score. The question that remains unanswered is... is this an adequate bullet for ethically hunting a large animal like a deer? One possible way to help overcome this dilemma is to use the combined comparison formula of [(MV)^2]/d, when comparing the performance of one bullet with another, and set this as the minimum standard for bullet lethality selection. However there are always exceptions to the Combined Performance Comparator factor to be considered. For example, if the bullet is designed to pierce body armour and then some; then the Momentum Sectional Density factor is more relevant. In wartime, the opportunity time to perform a lethal shot is often limited, hence the Lethality factor is more important, i.e. every shot counts. However if the intended animal target stays still enough for a lethal shot to the brain to be undertaken, within the accurate rage of the firearm, then the Momentum Sectional Density factor is more important. If the shooter is considered to be an untrained marksman, then it is recommended that the Combined Performance factor [(MV)^2]/d be used. When used in conjunction with the above formulae, this lethality information now informs the shooter the effective range limit of their cartridge and gun combination on the intended target. It should be further noted that these methods are approximate estimates only, as the terminal ballistic characteristics of bullets in animals can vary widely. However, a good hunter should also know the accurate range limitation of their gun and ammunition, the environmental limitations under which the shot is undertaken, including opportunity time, and know where to shoot an animal to obtain an immediate lethal outcome.

For ammo availability 308 is the king in South Africa lots of people also use the 30-06 the 6.5 Creedmoor also very popular what ever you use learn to shoot it well at all your hunting ranges

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Awie. The 308 is a great, and probably underrated cartridge in these times where high BC bullets get so much attention. If I had prioritized ammo availability more it might have come out as a winner. And I agree, the cartridge on it's own doesn't do the job. You got to learn to shoot it well. thanks for sharing your thoughts. All the best!

@frankgilliland3318

Жыл бұрын

HI , I agree have used a 30.06 for about 30 years works for me on eland,kudu,widebeest and gemsbok . the 6.5 creedmore is a relatively new comer is SA and i think most game farms are not totally sold on it , for the bigger species ,I would personally feel undergunned to take an eland with it . The 243 Winchester is however ,in my opinion , an excellent choice for springbok , blesbuck ,warthog and impala which i have also hunted extensively .

Agreed

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

that's great to hear. All the best!

Speed kills! High velocity equals better bullet expansion and more efficient kills. .270 SMOKES a 6.5 CM and a 7mm08 for that reason.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

You overlooked (or ignored) the 30-30 which is far and away the major deer harvester every season. Of course it's used primarily for hunting and not paper charts.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

I wanted to focus on all-round bolt action cartridges. I think the 30-30 is a great cartridge for the woods.

probably the 270 as it will Work well on the plains too.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Agree. As long as one considers distance and bullet choice for the large plains game. If you're off on a safari it's worth checking if there are local restrictions for caliber or bullet type. All the best!

Could keep to imperial or metric. For beginners it’s very confusing and sometimes the . Is left out of inch unit. Otherwise great😊

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Thanks Tom. Good point. We'll stick with imperial going forward. All the best!

Sambar! 30-06, all 7mm & 300 mags.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Paul. I agree with your point of view. In this review I focussed on CXP2 size deer and other animals. Sambar are in the CXP3 class and definitely need cartridges with more authority when using heart/lung shots. All the best.

280 Remington 140 gr bullet ! The best!

Give me a 243 for a small deer up to 50 kg and 300 yds Anything bigger give me the 270 for everything else, these being picked for many reasons, i would prefer a 284 before the 280 rem but these are home loading cartridges and the others i picked are not, you will find these readily at any game shop

Oh, I disagree on so many levels. Let me say this. Any of those cartridges are fine deer rounds. They all have the ability to kill, some at quite long ranges. The factors more important than the ballistic numbers to add to any attempt at defining the best will cause varied results from person to person. 1. How well does the gun fit. If you're not comfortable with the gun, accuracy is a harder fight. 2. Where do you hunt. A woods hunter who shoots 100 yards needs a different weapon than a mountain hunter who needs to reach out 500 yards. 3. How far can you shoot. Set up a paper plate. Take 3 you hit all 3 back up further, try again. When you start to miss, you're reaching your maximum effective range. If it's 200 yards, you Don't need a 50 bag. A miss with a cannon is still a miss. Very few deer get scared to death! The reality is the weapon is more important than the cartridges. You need a gun that fits your needs of your skill and your hunting style. That is different for everyone. So find the gun that fits you. Then, choose a caliber that can kill a deer. There are hundreds out there. I hunted a lot with a 257 Roberts , it did a fine job for me. So understand what you're asking of it to do to fill your needs. Then make your decision. We reinvent cartridges so we can increase sales. Many times there is no real benefit to it. Grab what works for you. If it does, don't let anyone tell you differently. There not you.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Matt. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience. I'm not sure we actually disagree that much. This video is about cartridges specifically. In isolation. If you watch all three parts I call out many of your points, including A) the optimal cartridge choice is ultimately specific to a given hunting scenario. B) Cartridge choice is irrelevant if you are not able to hit the specific size vitals under a given set of conditions. And C) there is an overlap between the evaluate (and other) cartridges. I picked the cartridges in the test as generally representative for cartridges in their class or category. I could have included the 260 Rem and the 6.5x55 for example, but the performance is really not that different from the 6.5 Creedmoor. And I picked them for general availability (although that does depend on where a hunter lives). I'm a firm believer that skill and knowledge trump gear. Or, at least, that gear requires a foundation of skills and knowledge. Based on your comments I suspect that idea resonates with you. Thanks again for sharing your experience. All the best.

@mattholland8966

Жыл бұрын

@RedKettleEfficientHunting I don't think we disagree much at all. I sold and repaired guns for 30 years in my shop. I've seen people do and say stuff that would shock you. The average shooter has a minimal knowledge of what they are doing. Figure that as about 1/2 the shooting public on both ends of that at about 15 percent that are pretty good and on the other end you wouldn't hunt with for money. Beyond those 10 percent are excellent, let's say knowledgeable And gifted or on the other end an accident waiting to happen or just down right dangerous. If you tackle a topic in firearms remember it will be looked at from all these points of views. You can't go too detailed or you'll lose the viewer. But if you don't make it clear they come away with.the wrong idea. I commend you on what you're doing. I know it's not easy. I was just trying to show there is so mu h more than ballistics when making the choice for the right gun. Example I have seen. Brace yourself. " I want one powder to reload my pistols. Rifles and shotguns", Or, " I shoot a 300 Weatherby Magnum because you can use any 300 cartridge in it. 300 savage, 300 H and H 300 winchester. " he was telling me this as I was trying to extract a totally destroyed case from his rifle. Just because someone owns something don't mean they know how to use it!!! Good luck and keep up the good work.

having over 5K rounds of 308 in inventory certainly influences the choice

5 muley bucks, 4 muley doe, 3 doe antelope, 4 female aoudad sheep, all with a .270 Nosler 130 grain. 3 deer were under 100 yards; the rest were over 200 to up to 400 yards. None ran, all but two were one shot. Pick the gun you understand and can shoot accurately without flinching, and you will harvest meat.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Agree. That's sound advice. And that's a great harvest, Tim. Thanks for sharing. All the best.

🤠 I came back to make a correction to my comment today and it was deleted? ☹ WHY??? 🤷‍♂️

It all depends of where you hunt. If your in heavy brush, the good old 30-30 will suffice out to 100 yards. But, in open country where long shots are the norm, a .30-'06 may be your choice. There simply is NO one "Best" cartridge.

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

Hi Robin. Agree. Where you hunt and what size of deer you hunt makes a big difference. I hope the matrix helped visualize that. All the best.

Throw the 260 Remington in the mix and be very surprised!

@RedKettleEfficientHunting

Жыл бұрын

260 Rem is a great cartridge. I picked the 6.5 Creedmoor as the 6.5 representative because it seems like it's becoming more generally available of the small/medium 6.5s. All the best!

Any of those cartridges....can work. BUT, to me.... the rifle itself is more important than the caliber.