Best all around caliber for Big Game?

[jkurkoski]

If you only had one option for one firearm, what is everyone's preference for a general purpose caliber for big game (deer, elk, moose, bear)?

Just curious?   

[C.C. Waters]

   I think the venerable 30.06 has already proven its worth and would be my choice on this continent .

[Faceman]

I have to say the 30-06 hands down. I would hunt any North American game with mine. You can get so many different loads with 30-06, so you cant hunt anything from antelope to bison.

[deadeye]

I agree with all here, it's probably the 30-06.  Mostly due to the numerous cartridges available.  Now with that said, I can't believe I don't own one.   

[proangler16]

    I'd have to go with the 7mm Rem-Mag, ballistics wise!!!   

[Grute Man]

12 gauge.  You can hunt both big game and birds as well. 

[deadeye]

Good thinking there Grute, I didn't even think about birds.

[jkurkoski]

I already own a 12 gauge shotgun with multiple barrels so that's a good start.  Also own a 30-30.  Was considering a
30-06, not sure on a brand (of firearm) yet, but definitely bolt action.  I would like to try some out of state (possibly
out country) hunts for Elk or Moose or Bison or Antelope.  But need to hone my skills as a hunter and times a wastin',
cause I am not getting any younger.  I appreciate everyones input.  How about preferences on brands for a 30-06?

[rem]

300 win for sure

[Faceman]

I already own a 12 gauge shotgun with multiple barrels so that's a good start.  Also own a 30-30.  Was considering a
30-06, not sure on a brand (of firearm) yet, but definitely bolt action.  I would like to try some out of state (possibly
out country) hunts for Elk or Moose or Bison or Antelope.  But need to hone my skills as a hunter and times a wastin',
cause I am not getting any younger.  I appreciate everyones input.  How about preferences on brands for a 30-06?

I personally love the remington 700 BDL

[Faceman]

12 gauge.  You can hunt both big game and birds as well. 

Grute you are a wise man.

[tripnchip]

If we are talking on gun i have to agree with Grute, if we are talking one rifle I have to go with the 30-06 for the game mentioned. What brand, hmmm, have had Savage, Win., 1917 enfield, Rem., all bolt action and with a little tweaking on the stock and loads they all were capable of shooting better then me. lol, kind of wish the kids and grandkids that have them guns now would come  up with a 06 barrel and scope for my encore. Have a 260 rem barrel on it and love it but miss the thumb of the 06.

[Cody Gruchow]

300 win mag, definitally is my choice