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Dear Sir,
Agreeable with another post. What do you now shoot ? What is the largerst calibers you have ?
Anything in the 'Elk Class' of a rifle cartridge will work fine.
When cartridge selection comes up in the discussion with my client and myself, I recommend the heavier bullets for what ever cartridge they bring.
Personally, I recommend to my clients a 338 Win. Mag. with 250 grain bullets and a 416 of any make, both with good tough bullets.
I do agree that shot placement and good tough bullets are the most important thing.
After 18 yrs. as a P.H., I think bigger is better. The 7mm is a very good cartridge, as is the 300 Win. mag. . I have used both and my clients have brought them as well, with very good results.
Last season I took a 35 Whelen for some clients to use, as it preformed very, very well out to 200 yards (the longest shot taken. Hit a Zebra in the front shoulder, 1/4ing towards us and the client dumped him) with 250grn. bullets.
I have had clients bring 270 Win. with 150 grn. bullets and they worked OK. The 270 is not one of my favorites, but they worked.
Generally, your shots will be at 200 yds. and under (some species require longer shots).
IMO, all the cartridges loaded with heavy bullets from 270 up to 338, or 35 Whelen are about the same at 125 yards. Beyond that range, I think bigger diameter at a reasonable velocity is better.
So, you may have something in your gun safe already that will serve you well. Or, it is a good reason to get a new rifle. Again, my choice for a working rifle would be the 338, loaded with good 250's. Yes, it is over powered for some game, but dead is dead. On the small animals, use your heavy rifle with solids.
One of my clients shot a Dik-Dik with his 416 and 400 grn. solid. He life size mounted it. If he had used his 338, he would have had 2 - 1/2's to mount.
Just my 2 cents worth.
Best,
Phil
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