Which rifle to buy

[denton]

I've just been through a long discussion about using the 243 on deer. If you're going to do that, I suggest that you use a premium bullet, like the Speer Grand Slam or Nosler Partition.

As mentioned, the 7mm08 is a better choice if elk are on the menu. Again, a premium bullet would be a good idea.

Another chambering, less common, that you might like is the 6.5x55. Those of us that have them think they are about the coolest round there is. Case capacity is a bit higher than the 308 based rounds. I have no data to support this, but the round has a reputation of doing a better job that its paper ballistics would indicate. Also, the published reloading data is almost all for older milsurp rifles. You can go up a grain or two on those loads without problem, if you're shooting a modern rifle.

Still less common is the 257 Roberts. Those who have them seem to be extremely happy with them.... almost fanatically so.

Check the offerings from CZ and from Savage. Savage has a reputation for being ugly, but performing well.