You’re buying a deer hunting rifle today… what round?

308

Unless NATO rapidly converts all of its DMR platforms to 6.5, I'd still go with 308 just because of availability. The Creedmoor round is fun and trendy and accurate and all, but it's not too fun when you can't find any boxes on the shelves or, if you do find them, they are $2+/rd.

If you reload, however, that's a different story.

Btw, 308 can still ring steel like a madman at long range: LINK

3006

.308
Just brought one last week to be my new deer rifle.

I know 6.5 can be used as a deer caliber but I see no justifiable reason to use one when there are much better rounds available for that purpose.

For me, with some longer shots, I’m looking at 6.5x300 WBY, 28 Nosler, and 6.5 PRC.

Of the two you listed, I’d go with the .308. My son hunted with a .308 in his early years. Outstanding round for most deer hunting situations.

There is no wrong answer between .243 and 300 WinMag,,,,there are some things to consider, Ammo avail, distance shot normally, game to be taken, recoil, etc. I wouldn’t use a .243 on Elk, nor a 300 WinMag for 100 years shots on S. La marsh deer, but consider all the variables that you would have regularly in front of you then make a choice.

I’ve always wanted a 257wby. I’m sure ammo is hard to get right now. I already have a 30-06 308 and 6.5 grendel so that’s what I would choose if and when I get a new rifle

These threads are always a pissing match and there are always dumb absolute statements made in them.

Of those two flip a coin.
They’re both great calibers for deer.
.308 will likely be a little easier to find but the creedmoor is getting much easier to find now.

I have both and basically flip a coin when I put one in the truck when I leave to go hunting. Building another 6.5 cm as I have an extra barrel and action. The action is getting blue printed now.