New Rifle

[Bigbear2]

I am trying to decide on a new rifle caliber.  Its between the 45/70, 30-06, 300 win mag.  I will be moving to Idaho soon and want a gun that will be good for deer, elk, and bear. I am thinking maybe a 45/70 because of the thick brush in the area that I will be at and it may be the gun for between 50-100 yards.. But I am also thinking 30-06 because ammo is available everywhere and WTSHTF I want to be able to find ammo or barter for it. I am also going to be living in an area where there is Grizzly Bears, so protection if I don't have spray, the 300 win mag might be the one....suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[Elkfever4]

You'll get a lot of differing opinions on this subject but I'll throw my 2 cents out.  I shot a 30-06 pump action for many years, took several deer and elk with it.  For the most part, it was a great rifle with enough power and reach for the country I hunt.  I finally upgraded to a Tikka T3 300 WSM, stainless barrel and synthetic stock, two years ago because I wanted something with a little more reach and power and that was lightweight and accurate.  I couldn't be happier with it.  It meets all my needs, whether I hunt the thick country of SW Washington or the big country of NE Oregon- for elk, deer and black bear.  I think its an all around great rifle for big game for the price.  Good luck. 

 

[cowboystl1]

i use a marlin xlr 45-70 it is a great brush gun with hella knock down power and the rounds are fairly easy to come buy even with the ammo shortage on i had no troubles. its really your call the only draw back is recoil same as the 300 it can be brutal when shooting targets but as every hunter knows when the game is on no report no recoil lol

 

[hank4elk]

I had been tempted to get a 300WM,but have stuck with the old Rem. 700 30-06 for elk and deer since I don't hunt Grizz.  Had it for 30 yrs and have only upgraded stock,scope and trigger. Accurate,easy on shoulder and ammo available anywhere.
If I was in thick bear country(besides blacks) I might upgrade the 30-30 Win I take everywhere when not hunting game. You can pick up a 45-70 used fairly reasonably,I think.