10 Best Cartridges for Elk: Voted by the experts!

[@backfire]

Go to learbackfire.com/ or call 800-707-4575 ​​to receive up to $15,000 in FREE bonus metals with a qualified purchase.

[@kennethbriody8396]

750ydd

[@LifeMyWay007]

What ballistics software do you use for videos like this? Is there one where you can select different calibers/loads from a dropdown to create a list like the one you show - or do you do it manually in a spreadsheet? Sure would be handy to have a comprehensive software for comparisons like this.

[@vinintheforest4690]

8​@@kennethbriody8396😢yr😅897😮

[@backfire]

@@LifeMyWay007 - Manual in a spreadsheet. I have some cleaning up to do on my spreadsheet, but eventually I'd like to publish it.

[@_bigbenbenny]

@@backfire ​ Sig has released a new Cross Magnum in 300 Win Mag. If you are able to get a hold of one, I'd love to hear your perspective about it. It sure would seem like it would be combining one of the most popular calibers with your families choice of bolt-rifle.

[@vettepilot427]

Observations as a gunsmith and custom rifle builder: 1.) I rebarrel more .28 Noslers into other calibers than any other cartridge. 2.) Over half the guns I built last year were 300 PRC. 3.) The guides that I work with and build guns for consider it their job to get the client under 300 yards regardless of caliber. 4.) The guides also mandate a "shoot till it drops" approach regardless of caliber. Follow-up shots are common and encouraged. Personal opinion: I prefer a .308 over the .270 Win and the 6.5 PRC.

[@ingelri2]

Are the .28 Nosler barrels being shot out or do people just not like them? Just curious because I got one a few years ago and love mine. I do load my own ammo, so I wonder if ammo availabilty plays into it?

[@maxtibbetts2102]

thanks for the info, what qualities make you prefer the 308?

[@vettepilot427]

@@ingelri2 I think most folks have unrealistically high expectations, and are disappointed. So, they go back to more traditional cartridges that they have in other rifles or more options/cheaper factory ammo offerings. I have replaced a few that were not shooting well that we felt were at the end of life.

[@vettepilot427]

@@maxtibbetts2102 As a personal preference, I prefer the larger and heavier bullet of the .308 for elk vs the 6.5 PRC and .270 Win. Flat shooting is not as important today with ballistic solvers and rangefinders, where we know the exact yardage and the correct holdover. In most cases, especially with a guide, you'll be within or around 300 yards. Randy Newberg also prefers the .308 and he explains the reasons in one of his videos. My personal choice for elk is the 300 PRC, but the 7mm PRC has a lot to recommend also with less recoil.

[@maxtibbetts2102]

@@vettepilot427 thanks man appreciate it

[@Aaron-hr5bb]

I lived in western Colorado until 2021 when I retired to a warmer climate at age 75. I started elk hunting with a 1968 Win Mod 70 in 7mm Rem Mag. Subsequently I used a .308, .270, .300 Win Mag and finally a .30-06. That last one was a 1978 Ruger M77 in .270 that an ex-wife returned in about 1990 with a pitted barrel due to not cleaning it. So, I had a 26 inch .30-06 stainless barrel installed and used it until a few years ago. I've killed several dozen elk, most with one shot. The closest was 5 yards with the .308 Sako and the farthest was 475 yards with the Ruger .30-06. Most shots were between 200 and 300 yards. My most successful series was 7 elk with 7 shots in 7 years straight with the Ruger. The cartridges were always Hornady 180 grain and the rifle carries an old Leupold 2x-7x VariX II. Most people I know who grew up in western Colorado use a .270, .30-06 or 7mm Rem Mag. However, the best elk hunter I've ever met was an old wrangler in Colorado's San Luis Valley. In 1934 he bought a Winchester 94 in .25-35 WCF and used it until he died in 1995. That's a 117 grain bullet at about 2200 fps and 1300 ft lbs of energy. I asked him if he ever wanted a bigger caliber and he said in 1950 he bet another cowboy a month's pay that he could rope an antelope and won. He was going to buy a Savage 99 in .300 Savage, but his wife needed some new pans for her diner and the money went to that instead. Elmer reported that he killed his elk every year while cutting firewood. The elk would come to watch what he was doing and when they got within 5 to 10 yards he picked up the rifle and shot one. Always one shot kills and an elk every year. Not exactly baiting, but close.

[@toddbrooks9845]

The last bit of your story put a smile on my face, I can picture it! Hope retirement is everything you want it to be 🍻

[@dewittsnyder4212]

You should put that in your book!

[@minervandusen324]

.300 Win for the win. If you can handle the recoil wihout flinching, it's a monster. 180grain for all species. I have dropped a Bull Elk and moose this season. Both within 5 yards of the first shot. Year before a monster whitetail. At 380yards. 1 shot. Love it!❤

[@chetlockwood1491]

I started with the 270 Winchester 7 elk, advanced to the 280 Remington 3 elk, upgraded to the 7mm Remington Mag 3 elk, last upshift was to a 30-338 Win Mag 2 elk so far. I didn't really see an uptick in capability or effectiveness until the 30-338 Win Mag, the 270 Win through the 7mm Rem Mag were all one shot killers, I never found them lacking nor did they let me down, but the Fast 30's hit with a degree of power not approached by the others, the results and reactions are visible. My next batter in the hot box is the 338 Win Mag, all the upward shifts were prompted by curiosity, not necessity. I would be perfectly content to finish my days with the 270 Win, but as they say variety is the spice of life.

[@kencleg7721]

I got 2 w 6.5x06 w 140 Berger’s 250/-300 shot once both shoulder or just behind both -50

[@ZeroBoostBuick]

I'm not surprised the 60 year old 300winmag is #,1 but I was very surprised the 338 winmag was not on the list. I'd choose the 300 winmag first because I have 2,.. One is a hunting rifle the other a target rifle. If I had a 338 winmag I'd choose it over the 300 winmag for Elk and Moose for sure. If the Old timers used the 35 Rem spitting out the Winchester Silvertip at 2,000 fps form a Lever action rifle and dropped moose in their tracks there is no reason why a 338 winmag wouldn't work just as good and gives you better range. And I think extreme long shots on big game are stupid. Why take the chance to wound a beautiful animal and make it suffer ? That's not hunting, that's a show off cool guy who laughs when they kill a Majestic Animal like it's a joke or something. It pisses me off.

[@Robert-fs1pb]

284 Ackley improved or 284 Ackley improved

[@austinogrady8832]

@chetlockwood1491 the real question here is, will you take this hoosier elk hunting?! Lol

[@workct4102]

What is the advantage of the 338 case over the 300 win mag case?

[@Clambelly]

Best ballistics comparison ever ! I love the fact, that you added a column showing maximum effective range. So many KZbin channels look only at long-distance "Target" shooting. BackFire TV is the ultimate source for hunters whose concern is ethical taking of game at distance. Jim, please keep up these excellent videos. Hope to see you next video "Best Long Range Lightweight Hunting Scopes". I know that many hunters are using 6.5mm on Elk, but I feel that the bullets are just not big enough. Energy may be the same, but a larger hole cannot be argued with. .300 Win Mag and 280 Nosler 7mm PRC should also be disregarded because of the unnecessary, excess recoil. That would focus almost all discussion on the 6.8, .280, and 7mm cartridges & then it become a simple matter of choice based on action / rifle availability, recoil, and reloading. It would appear that the BEST cartridges are based on standard loads 6.8 - 7mm bullet weights 162 - 175, which tosses out the smaller 6.5 and larger .30 cal cartridges. Of course this makes no sense to the thousands of game hunters using tried and true .308 and .30-06, but we are comparing ballistics for extended reaches.

[@joehayward2631]

For so many yrs hunted with my Winchester 3006, awesome cartridge especially for the east coast. Then an injury, my wife bought me the S&W AR10 308, i was able to get back in the game. The buffer spring saved my hunting. So if anyone has an injury look at the AR rifle. I looked up 3006 barrels Holy crap. Im doing great with the 308

[@Jay_guy712]

Growing up we used the 243 and 7mm rem mag, and both were super effective. It really comes down to shot placement and the bullet you use

[@altonguis8870]

Well put Sir, well put....

[@michaelspence1854]

@TheDilweedelk didn’t go 20 with the 243

[@hizsunhisatake6156]

My biggest 6x7 bull I got with a 243

[@codym2903]

@TheDilweed it does work at shorter ranges. I doubt he's picking them off past 300 with it.

[@TheRealConMan98]

⁠@TheDilweed I’ve seen more elk killed by the .243 Winchester than you or I will probably ever kill in our lives. Those old guys have good shot placement, know their limits, and have filled their tag every year for the past 50 years, probably with the same old rifle the entire time.

[@seanwhite304]

300 WSM loaded with 180g Nosler Partition or Accubond would be my choice . 400Y and in is my jam for taking Game.. Randy Newberg has killed more than you can shake a stick at . He's killed his fair share with trust 308 Win and 7mm-08 . Both using Nosler Bullets .

[@Paul-q3m7k]

35 Whelen loaded with 225 accubonds leaving the muzzle at 2800 fps . My kids shoot a 270 loaded with 130 grain barns and it goes in one side and out the other on bull elk inside of 300 yards , very capable elk cartridge

[@XXXXXX-bd2zb]

35 Whelen loaded with 225 accubonds -That is a fine choice, well done

[@savemeapieceofthatcorn]

Classy

[@firstjohn3123]

35 Whelan with 225gr Accubonds.... I doubt that will ever let you down. Solid choice. Even for bear.

[@shovelhead2155]

@12:17 Its so heartwarming seeing you and your wife and kids in your videos. Its nice to see a wholesome and happy family. Hers and your laughing was genuine enjoyment and nice to hear.

[@1clnsdime1]

I call BS that most hunters are taking 700yrd shots and killing elk. They may say they are but the Avg hunter can't shoot 700yrds.

[@rynedoppel6873]

My friend said he could and I believe him but when I gave him a spike opportunity at 650 yards last week he missed two shots. Granted it was downhill 30° a 5 mph wind and a ever so slowly moving elk. Still though it proved to be a harder shot than we both thought and we learned a lot about proper barometric pressure data. For instance the Hornady app needs you to enter pressure aside form the given pressure at the altitude you enter. Kind of a flaw in my opinion

[@minionkevin6623]

Here in Wyoming I hunt elk every year and I shoot a 300 win mag, 180gr Accubond love it! Most my kills are 400 yards and under. I did kill an elk a few years back at almost 700 yards with a 50 BMG that was cool. My Dad still hunts with a 270 works great. Its all about shot placement boys, and how well you know the rifle.

[@donaldbougie694]

You have reason,shot placement and a good bullet,you know?

[@deermeatfordinner]

Great video!!! I’m a 7mm REM Mag guy myself, but I think you nailed it with the 300win and the 7mm rem mag being on top… this video was full of great info and vey enjoyable to watch!!!!

[@johnbowlin900]

I agree Mr.Robert my personal favorite for deer hunting has to be a 270 wsm love you whatching your channel Gob bless

[@JoddieJesseWayne-yj4gm]

@@johnbowlin900killed my first Buck with a 270 rugar American nice wood stock another great gun

[@shaneziegler2555]

Exactly

[@JoddieJesseWayne-yj4gm]

@@JamesJones-cx5pk 7remi mag and aut 6 both tie in first for hunting unless we talking brush then 30-30 win

[@wilmoore5259]

What's your favorite bullet for 7mm Mag?

[@stans5270]

The 308 is like the Chevy 396 engine. It does what you need it to. But I doubt if any elk hunters worry about the cost of ANYTHING when it comes to hunting.

[@jaydunbar7538]

Not true, plenty of people who live in elk country hunt for a meat source same as I do for whitetail. The guys I know that live in Colorado and hunt every year use 30-06, and at the distances they shoot a 308 would effectively be the same.

[@MatthewC137]

The 308 is just boring. In that case size I'd take the 7-08 and in that caliber I'd take the 30-06.

[@kalebgoodwin493]

Or 30-06

[@user-po5po6pn8o]

​@MatthewC137 boring or exciting has nothing to do with effectiveness. Being obsessed with the equipment and always having the new thing typically makes you a bad hunter, you're focused on the wrong things.

[@nuckyduk15]

Ive used 270 Win, 7Rem Mag and 300 Weatherby and the old 300 Weatherby is still my favorite elk cartridge. Not because its better than the other two, but because theres something cool about hunting in the West using a Weatherby.

[@kcreyesmaquilan9741]

I agree 300 weatherby is one of the best cartridges out there for elk, moose, Caribou, bear ect.. if I could only have one center-fire rifle for the rest of my life it would be the 300 weatherby.

[@justinriley8651]

it actually is better than the other 2 by a large margin.

[@marknugent6155]

Is it spending twice as much a box of Shells ? I have ALWAYS WANTED a .300 Weatherby Mag . I came So close to ( pardon the Pun ) pulling the trigger and purchased one about 3 years ago . The price of Ammo stopped me in my tracks. I have a Ruger model 77 in 7mm Rem Mag and it's a tack driver. The balance the weight the way it fits my hand ... after watching several videos , such as the one we just watched , I'm kinda glad I didn't. But the Weatherby is still a Dream to own ! .

[@3efunding43]

agreed@@justinriley8651

[@keithhawkins4641]

I love my 7mag but I am getting to old to pack out elk that I can shoot with it 5 or 6 hundred yards. Have done that many times. Now I stick to 300 yards and us 7mm-08 and ttsx. works great.

[@guyminer3168]

Good video! This year's cow elk was at 405 yards in a stiff crosswind. 30-06, 178 gr ELD-X, through the heart. Excellent meat!

[@edwardlowry1886]

LOVE THE 30-06

[@marknugent6155]

What kind of Scope and features does it have ? Or do you use Kentucky Windage and Elevation ?

[@guyminer3168]

Used my normal 6x Leupold, with the 36mm objective and "LR Dots" as Leupold called them. I've shot with this rifle a lot and absolutely knew my holdover. The fellow with me on the hunt is quite a rifleman and we conferred on hold off for the wind. It worked great. @@marknugent6155 Estimating the wind is the tough part. Drop is just math.

[@getinthespace7715]

I'm sticking with 30 cal. Relatively Cheap. Bigger game. .300 Win Mag. Deer. .308 Win Defense. 7.62x39

[@williamfeldner9356]

My Elk caliber progression. 1st 7mm Rem Mag, 2nd 300 Wby Mag 3rd 375 h@h Mag. The best killer, the 375 h@h.

[@HoneyBeagle]

I love my 270. I’ve tried all kinds of stuff but I always come back to the 270. It’s just hard to beat

[@The_Hi_Life]

Agreed 👍 it just KILLS like the plague.

[@mptehc]

I call it the 90% solution to every fad.

[@AntonGudenus]

Just to add a little bit of experience from Europe and our version of elk (red stags): We harvest around 150 of the buggers every single year. And we use mainly 308 or 300WM for the job depending on range. 308 for everything under 200m and 300WM for everything between 200-500m. Though 308 definitely has harvested most of them, due to ammo cost. And they reliably drop red stags out to 300m.

[@JCTaylor21]

North American Elk tend to be larger/heavier than European Red Deer. Roosevelt/Olympic Elk can weight as much as 1,300 pounds/590 kilograms. The Win Mag is adequate, but Elk are a different consideration.

[@AntonGudenus]

@@JCTaylor21 You are right, that red stag are a bit smaller, with an average stag being around the 180-220kg (400-500lb) mark. Red stag and wapiti are about the same level of "bullet resistant" though and will drop with similar energy levels. Additionally one should not forget, that in northern Europe moose are most often hunted with 6.5x55mm, 30-06 or .308. And those animals are regularly over 1000lb.

[@JCTaylor21]

Those Scandinavian moose hunters would much prefer an 8X57 IS, 8X68 S or 9.3X62 over the 6.5X55 all day/any day. @@AntonGudenus

[@LRRPFco52]

Scandinavian game survey for Moose. 6.5mm and 7mm cartridges averaged shorter travel distances from the shot. .30 bores averaged longer travel distances. Very large survey with thousands of sample sizes. .30 bores accounted for about 50% of all cartridge types, mostly .308, 7.62x53, and .300 Win Mag. 6.5s were mosrly 6.5x55, and 6.5x284 Norma. 7mm were mostly 7mm Mag and 7x57 Mauser. .308 ammunition availability and pricing favor it even in Europe. The moose I've eaten in Finland was taken with .308 Winchester from a SAKO 75 or 85.

[@BlueMountainSports]

I think what happened to 308 and 06 was that many people in the US used cheap remington cup and core bullets, back in the day, and they would come apart. On deer not really an issue but on an elk they can run for miles if you hit bone and the bullet disintegrates.

[@accur81]

Hornady has really done well with creating and marketing cartridges - 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, 300 PRC and the 7mm PRC are doing very well.

[@joncox2682]

I agree. Most people aren’t shooting past 300 yards I also shoot a lot 300 win mag is my favorite cartridge and I do practice a lot and have been to a few long range schools are I think the farthest shot I would take game at is 700 yards ideally less than 500 yards.

[@brkyq]

Eating antelope and watching backfire. Good combo. I like the fact you had wind drift and I believe it is critical to understand for extended range. I had estimated 14 mile an hour wind drift at 515 yards and held about a foot right of intended impact point. BDX made the adjustment and hit was right on the money. The difference between wounding or miss and a clean kill.

[@semiprohunter]

300 Win Mag is 100% the optimal elk caliber and my personal go-to but honestly I may give the .300 WSM a try just to build a rifle in standard length action (way more lightweight options) with comparable effect. Great cross section, great energy.

[@greghuber9773]

Why not the 300 Rum ? Faster than the Win Mag slightly more recoil!

[@jonathancole6124]

​@greghuber9773 not short action. Not light weight.

[@shanedevon147]

​​@@greghuber9773300 rum has 50% more recoil than 300 winmag..

[@patricks.6812]

I've shot over 20 elk over the years and I always use my 338 Win Mag. Most of my elk have been taken at around 300 yards and I often see them drop in the scope.

[@davidbaker4838]

I’m a 30.06 fan. I have reloads for 150, 165, 168, and 180 grain Barnes TTSX. My 150 grain TTSX has plenty of energy (at 3100 ft/sec) for elk. Less recoil as well. My 180gr TYSX AT 2770 ft/sec will do the job as well. Grizzlies, brown bears and moose I go to my 300 WM.

[@mrdark9916]

I use the Barnes LRX load nowadays as it extends velocity threshold to 1600fps and ensures I get reliable expansion at the longer pokes out to 500yds. But used TTSX for many many years

[@fredhaferkamp7224]

I always used the Nosler partition on elk in 30-06. Never failed me.

[@FErdr20]

Hand loaded barnes 150 tsx does a fine job in this caliber as well.

[@andyeighttre]

300 Weatherby wearing a meopta r2 2.5-15 with a 200 grain accubond for spotting in open country. 350 rem mag wearing a meopta 1-6 with 225 grain accubond for the timber. On a trip the 30-06 with 180 grain sciroccos always goes along as a just in case.

[@kevinwood7358]

Hunting since 1970 and I really enjoyed this video. I have shot many elk using mostly the 300 win mag, but also the 300 WSM. My friends use 280 AI, 300 PRC, but mostly the 7mm Win Mag. My next acquisition will be a 7mm PRC for elk hunting, mainly due to heavy for caliber bullet availability. I may build this rifle using a 30-06 controlled feed action. That parts still up in the air. Thanks for the time and effort you put into this video.

[@paladin7284]

Really glad to see the .300 wsm getting some love

[@helok9]

I think there is a lot of BS regarding shots taken above 500 yds.

[@yarmonymatoid1562]

Good list. I love my TC Pro Hunter in .300 Win. CoreLock 180 Grain all day long. I've killed 20+ elk with this set-up. The longest was about 575 yards. Had to take it. Late in the season, nothing but short sagebrush between me and the herd. Drops them every time.

[@sylviahofer1246]

As a big time. 308 guy, I'm just glad it got mentioned. Thanks! 😂

[@aleehene]

I think our beloved 308 got the equivalent of a participation ribbon in this video. 😂

[@Just_Samson]

I’m a 300wsm aholic, love that cartridge. BUT! My next build may be a 6.5/7prc just to spice things up 😉

[@sirrloin]

300wsm is my jam as well. Only hard part at this time is finding rounds on the shelves.

[@billfulgenzi2287]

I was shocked that the .338 Winchester Magnum was not on the list. My choices .338 Win Mag .300 Win Mag 7mm Remington Magnum 30/06 Springfield .280 Remington I was very surprised that any of the Weatherby cartridges were not mentioned. I would place several in the top ten list. These choices of mine are based on actual experience, availability of ammunition, and rifles. I think most young people chose what new and flashy. Personally I want old and reliable.

[@barrycolla2506]

Isn't 338 overkill?...question from someone ho has never hunted elk....greetings from the Netherlands.

[@emmanuelcalderon1982]

338 win mag is probably more than average person can handle and Weatherby cartridges just aren’t very popular.

[@steveblack5952]

338 win seperates chasing game and eating game. It gets them on the ground.

[@SA-hh9mv]

I always associated 338 win mag as a guide gun for stopping dangerous game.

[@charleshuyck6641]

The most popular 3 are in order 30-06, 7mm Rem Mag, and 300 Win Mag. Modern bullets keep resurecting the 06. This based off of guide surveys and sales.

[@cchcch-jw9dw]

Be careful my friend we know that backfire tv guy loves the new high tech high BC bullets launchers .... As if BC equals killing power.

[@charleshuyck6641]

@@cchcch-jw9dw No paid to sell them but with new bullets the 308 and 06 make em obsolete.

[@skeeterdavis5777]

This has been the best way of explaining the 3 great cartridges ever. When you go back to the history of the Grandfather round which is the 30-06, then the other to where born so to speak. The 7mm mag and the 300winmag was developed in the 60's. AWESOME!! PEOPLE HAS FORGOT ABOUT THE CARTRIDGE THAT WAS BORN BEFORE THE OTHER 2. I DO UNDERSTAND PEOPLE WOULD HAVE SOMETHING ELSE TO SAY ABOUT THIS! If they would read the history on the 3 they would understand as well.

[@skeeterdavis5777]

@@charleshuyck6641 That's not true, read about the 3 he is talking about. (HISTORY)

[@charleshuyck6641]

@@skeeterdavis5777They don't outsell the greats. It's like Gibson and Fender Guitars they are still unrivaled and the 308 can be added too. 308 is most popular big game caliber in the world according to sales in the world. It's why a 66 mustang is sought after and collected. all the rest is a copy.

[@mattisaias5367]

#1 take away, if you’re shooting at a proper range per the cartridge, anything you use will kill an animal. Some are just more suited for a certain animal type than others. I feel that the 300 win mag, 30-06, 308 and 7mm mag are the most well rounded big game cartridges. The advancement of firearms and all the cool calibers and loads coming out every year are indeed cool but I think those 4 set the bar really high. Seems like they have the least amount of flaws and the most consistent Excellencies. But the new hunters coming into the sport and tradition will opt for the latest and greatest and if you have a lot of money, you’ll end up with a 26 or 28 nosler, or 30 nosler, or a 300 prc, or a 7 prc, or even a 6.5 prc. But then you have high ammo prices and why argue or a fight when you can drop 500-600 on a savage 110 in 7 mag, 308, 300 or 30-06 Vs dropping on average 800-1500 dollars on a high quality scared to scratch rifle like a Christensen arms, bergara, weatherby etc Not to mention the optics. It’s a to each is their own deal and if you’ve been hunting for years amd your dad and grandpa used 30-06’s growing up, you might not care for these ultra modern rounds

[@addisonmohler3664]

I had a 30-06 AI made by mistake and it's now my favorite elk cartridge. Performance of a 300 WM with better precision for LR and without the belted cartridge. It can also shoot factory 30-06 just fine in a pinch.

[@jefpanisi3764]

30-06AI. 25 inch pac-Nor barrel 190gr ABLR 61gr Superformance powder 2960fps 1/2 inches all day

[@concreteandgrading]

​@jefpanisi3764 oh wow, great load

[@jamiehurtt3530]

At my hunting elevation of 7000 ft the 210 grain ABLR mv of 2600+ fps in plain old 30-06 is my caliber and bullet of choice for elk out to 600 yds This bullet load combination is the holy grail for distance hunting in tje old warhorse has 1950 ft lbs of energy at 600 yds and has the potential in energy out to 700 yds on elk. the 210 grsin ABLR has a 0.661 bc and still flying at nearly 2000 fps at 600 yds. expand down to 1300 fps. Also the heavy ABLR expands well penetrates and holds together at lower 06 velocities at both close and long ranges. All this with much less recoil than a magnum cartrige. Nosler developed the 210 grain ABLR to be used in a 1:10 twist barrel . No magnum necessary at distance using this load . And flatter trajectory is of little consequence when shooting beyond 300 yds as long as you know your bullet drop dope with this high bc bonded bullet .

[@dansherwood9851]

The 270wsm I know is similar to the regular 270, but it’s better in most every way and I’ve had no problem killing several elk with one including a 407” elk at 485 yards. It works!

[@patchristopherson4585]

Agree...several taken in the low 500s with 150g

[@dansherwood9851]

@@duckwacker8720 makes it better all the way around. Fits in a short action, faster, more muzzle energy, etc…and the 140gr AB rocks!

[@lousypirate]

6.8 Western has essentially replaced the 270 wsm... but not enough to make it worth replacing the 270 wsm you own (coming from a 270 wsm owner and believer)

[@dansherwood9851]

@@lousypirate not at my house. But although it’s still here I confess I replaced it with the 6.5cm. Less recoil, better availability of ammo and cheaper cost.

[@lousypirate]

@@dansherwood9851 I’ve done the same for whitetail in MI, but still love the wsm

[@mmiller73]

My elk cartridges are .30-06 for situations where I expect shots out to 300 yards, and .300 RUM for situations where I expect shots beyond 300 yards.

[@DrewEdwardBacklas]

Hornady precision hunter shoots 2935fps out of my 24” barrel 280ai. I safely handload about 50fps faster than that with the 162eldx. It’s identical performance to 7rem mag with factory ammo with less recoil/blast/flash in my experience.

[@backfire]

That’s a really really nice setup there. 162 at 2950 in a high BC bullet with medium recoil? I’m sold.

[@DrewEdwardBacklas]

@@backfire 59.7g H4831, in remington fireformed 280rem brass, cci 250 primer .020” off the lands avg 2963fps.

[@2Advocate2021]

My 280 Ai shoots 168 grain Berger vld’s averages 2947 fps. Factory nosler brass, cci br2 primers, reloader 26, and seated .020 off the lands. 2947fps. 0.68 MOA groups really consistently.

[@The_Hi_Life]

Yep the 280 AI is a hidden gem! It’s a ballistic anomaly.😂

[@milkrvr4088]

Can you go up to 180 in the 280AI or does it start to fall off

[@ThemantleofElijah]

270 win is my favorite cartridge. It’s proven and been a killer for many years proven over and over. Just like Jim stated the 6.5 prc and 270 win are nearly identical

[@AString95]

My first hunting gun when I was 12 was a 270 WSM. I just thought it was cool. All these years later I wish I got the normal 270 because the ammo is so much less expensive and way more common.

[@marshmellow3110]

@@AString95I have a BLR in 270wsm. Recently picked up a BAR in 270. I kill a ton of pigs in the marsh in Louisiana. The auto load and cheap, easy to find 270 rounds were the deciding factor. Use the 270wsm in the woods for deer. Love them both, just wish the WSM wasn’t so expensive and difficult to find.

[@stevenwales2283]

I love the Nosler 190 grain ABLR in 300 Win Mag. Not a ballistic monster, but it just flatout kills!

[@LRRPFco52]

ABLRs are so soft, they expand immediately and cause a large wound channel at close to mid range, normal expansion at longer range since they will still open up at 1300fps impact speeds.

[@shootingatshadow]

I run that bullet too, at almost 3200fps, it's a monster

[@shootingatshadow]

​@@LRRPFco52yeah they do open quickly on closer shots, but they hang together well, I've taken moose at close range and it penetrated the whole moose and lodged in the offside hide. Retained a fair amount of mass too.

[@atomicwedgie8176]

Nosler Partition for thin skinned: Swift A-frame for thick skinned... simple

[@samhouston5217]

Thank you for another great and informative video. I love my 300WSM and have for many many years. tried and true, for me. I use 180 grain bullet though and it does bump up over 3000 fps which changes that chart quite a bit. Lightweight to carry and (when standing) not much recoil to worry about. That being said.... I'm considering building a 300 PRC now... we'll see.

[@jkat66]

I guess I'm just getting older and set in my ways. I still love the old classics and could care less for the new overrated calibers. I still hunt all of my Whitetail Deer with a 25/06 or .308 depending on situation. Black Bear with .308. And as soon as I get the opportunity to go Elk hunting I have a .300 H&H that will do anything a .300 Win. Mag will do more efficiently. And given the opportunity to go to Africa I have a 9.3X62 Mauser and a .458 Win. Mag. awaiting. Just waiting on retirement to get here. Absolutely love your informative videos!

[@Aaron-hr5bb]

In 2000 I had a Czech foreign exchange student who is an avid hunter. He owns a forestry company and owns or leases thousands of acres that he hunts on at least once a week and his parents own a hunting lodge. I visited in 2008 and one afternoon, out of the blue, he handed me a Brno .308 and said, "Let's go hunting." Seasons and licenses are different from here in the US. Mostly he kills hogs and red deer (several per month) using the .308 barrel on his Sauer 202 . He also has a 9.3 x 62 barrel for the Sauer that he uses for bear hunting in Kamchatka. Those are the same as the brown bears in Alaska. So, you don't have to wait for Africa, head north to our 49th State.

[@jkat66]

I actually have a friend who has recently moved to Alaska and is working toward becoming a licensed hunting guide. I told him I would be his first customer for a bear hunt.@@Aaron-hr5bb

[@user-ou1og8fs5m]

Great comparison man. My opinion being said. Favorite cartridge is 300 RUM with 26" 1-12 twist. Specialty once in a lifetime , basically, elk hunt. Loaded with 168 gr at 3300fps. I just wanted the flatest shooting gun to 600 yds. I needed light (CARMS carbon fiber wrapped barrel, stock, and detatchable mags). I load Shiracco II's. Just an overweight old guy high in the mountains of Utah. If you are not loading your own, you are missing half the fun. Nothing like a 380" bull dropping before the echo in the canyons stops. Keep up with the great content.

[@helodriver20]

.300 win mag. 200 grain Sierra #2165, 65.7 grains of IMR 4350, Winchester mag primer. For us (out west, Colorado, Calif, and Nevada), it’s killed more deer and elk than every other caliber we own combined. 🦌❤️

[@randomname6710]

If you can't get closer to elk than 700 i've got some serious questions about your hunting acumen lol

[@jacobhawkes5377]

I couldn't agree more! I think something to take into consideration is, I'd be willing to bet most guides are taking city folk who are clueless on how to get closer but have the money to have a custom rifle built that allows them to take long range shots. Just an assumption on my part.

[@robertwaterman4451]

My bud and I both had successful backcountry hunts in WY this season. We practiced to full competency out to 450 yrds. In the end, our guide called in the elk to 50yrds to both of us. Could it have happened further out? Yes. Did we have to? No. My brief experience says that in that country you should be able to get it done inside 400yrds and anything beyond that is not being patient or willing to stalk closer.

[@robertwaterman4451]

I should also say that they both dropped in their tracks with a 30-06.

[@sebastianpoe3799]

Why stalk closer when I can just pull the trigger at 700 yards and drop it though

[@alexmills1329]

@@sebastianpoe3799some say that’s not giving the animal a fair chance, or even hunting at all. 2100 feet away is a lot of distance for things to change in, you’re talking about half a second or more for anything to move out of position and make that shot non lethal… if the bullet you’re shooting even has enough energy down that far to drop the animal at all.

[@sebastianpoe3799]

@alexmills1329 the goal isn't to give the animal a fair chance. Goal is to put meat in the freezer. Not all of us hunt on flat terrain where it's easy to get right on top of the animal before we pull the trigger. My 7prc does just fine dropping them at 700 yards

[@tomhenry897]

Because many so called expert shots miss

[@richards.mchardy3556]

I have used the 30-06 and .270 all of my life ,I personally have not lost any game I don't bother with trying to go more than 300 yards max because once you get your game, that's when the work really begins

[@theleo91386]

I can't really argue with the list. I'll just add since the 30-06 and 280ai are on there, there should be an honorable mention to the heavies of the 06 family. The 35 Whelen and 338-06.

[@Joeatsaco69]

I have always heard the top 2 for Elk. When I chose my first Bolt gun I wanted to ensure I could shoot anything in North America. Back in 1987 research was hard to find but I did settle on the 7mmRem Mag as it was very close but less kick. I have since rebuilt that Savage 110E and put a match barrel on it and I can get 1 hole groups (not JaggedHoles). I reload so I can usually get more out of the Caliber.

[@davidhague7184]

It was surprising to see the 338Win Mag that low on the list. My guess has to do with recoil and its not as flashy as some of the newer options.

[@davidsonneman1121]

I would put 338 win mag way up there. Also 35 Whelen and 375 H & H. For me, 400 yards is a long ass shot in the elk woods

[@JCTaylor21]

I completely agree. Novices fail to consider frontal area. On large animals (750-1,000 pounds) you need to poke a big enough hole to be effective. I also agree with your 400 yard limit for most people. An animal can move 18" to 3 feet easily in the time it takes a bullet to travel 700 yards. No one can account for that. 325 WSM with a 200-220 grain bullet and 9.3X62 with a 250 or 286 grain bullet are two of my favorite cartridges on 1,000+/- pound game.@@davidsonneman1121

[@1rstTry]

🙄

[@CurtHolder]

The men today can't handle that type of recoil with skinny jeans man buns pedicures and weaves

[@deanbacon8245]

I like my 338

[@BareSphereMass]

Spoilers From Left to Right 0:54 (1=left, 10=right) 14:52 1st place: .300 Win Mag 14:39 2nd place: 7 Rem Mag 13:42 3rd place: 7 PRC 12:22 4th place: .300 WSM 10:19 5th place: .300 PRC 9:12 6th place: .30-06 2:53 7th place: 6.5 PRC 8:53 8th place: .28 Nosler 4:02 9th place: .270 Winchester 1:08 10th place: .280 Ackley Improved 5:21 Typical Range 6:36 Skip Add 16:30 Bullet recommendations

[@Specter_ZO6]

Thank you

[@tonywoconish6695]

🗣really 🙀 the .338WM not even mentioned!!!! Something WRONG with this list Sir. SEMPER FI 🤠🇺🇸

[@adamjapalucci848]

I’ve fallen into a wsm rabbit hole and have been reloading and shooting 300wsm for 10 years, I completely agree with your statement in about your numbers not being the best comparison! 150-180gn bullets are my preferred range ballistically.

[@guyminer3168]

300 WSM is one heck of a cartridge.

[@GAbel338]

Lots of death with the 270 wsm in this house, Great cartridge

[@jfess1911]

Hi. Have you found your WSM to be a little picky as to what it shoots well? The WSM's use the older-style taper-only chamber design instead of the "match-style" with a section of tight freebore now used for most other long-range cartridges? Although the WSM's and the 300 Win Mag both use "taper only" chambers, the WSM version is much tighter, starting at .3099" dia vs the older WM at .315". I have wondered if this change makes the WSM's less picky for accuracy. Thanks

[@lavernedofelmier6496]

I started hunting in 1964 mostly mountain and heavy timber. My choice was the 30-06 with 220 grain round nose core- loc. never lost an elk. Available in every mom and pop hardware store.

[@strat1080]

The 308 isn’t a favorite amongst avid Elk hunters because it just doesn’t have the range that some of the other favorite Elk cartridges do. Elk hunting is tough, especially a DIY public land. It’s kind of funny. Growing up in Colorado and being an avid hunter I never ran into any other hunters that carried a 308. Everybody had a 270, 30-06, 7mm RM or 300 WM. The 308 seems to be more popular amongst people that live at the lower altitudes and more wooded areas. You don’t see too many folks in the mountainous regions of the West carrying a 308. Many shots are just too far to be comfortable with a 308 or you are many times also in grizzly country and want a rifle with a little more horsepower

[@lorenjackson8961]

My favorite....is the same one I've used in Alaska for years on Moose and Bears....340 Weatherby Mag.

[@scottlawrence1826]

Thank you!! You helped me verify that my 30-06 was a good choice.

[@mrdark9916]

30-06 is an excellent choice for literally everything lol. It shows up in the top section of every single "best cartridge for XYZ" video ever made lol It is simply the single most versatile cartridge for North American big game

[@jeffwomack5821]

Good research and video. Her laugh when she fired that rifle was priceless. I had to listen to it a few times and thinking I should make it a ring tone for my phone.

[@tomwoodard5563]

Just took a 310in 6x6 bull in Idaho this past weekend with a 7 PRC, using 160gr Hornady CX copper bullets. Cartridge performed better than I did. Lousy shot placement on a moving elk at 470 yards took 3 shots - but I came out of the mountains with a nice one.

[@harrypest]

27 Elk in 31 years. 6 cows with a front stuffer. 21 bulls-First 7 were with my Grandpas hand me down Remington 721 in .30-06. The last 14 were with one of three .300 Win. Mags. Started with a 1963 First year production Model 70, then bought a Ruger M77 Mark II in 2003 and my last 3 Bulls were with a CVA Cascade. I have shot out to 440 yards. I am sure many cartridges are as good or better, or even adequate, but my confidence is in the .300 Win. Mag. with a 180gr Nosler Partition pushed by 69.8gr of IMR 4350 at 3.315" COL.

[@vincentwood7036]

Here in South Africa we use cartridges like the .308 Winchester to hunt some pretty big animals like Eland, at fairly descent ranges, out to 400m - 500m sometimes. We even hunt Cape Buffalo with 30-06 and .308 Winchester.

[@shaynelhta]

You must not have watched Ron spomers Chanel. We were recently informed that you're hunting too big of game at too far of a distance for the 308...

[@albertawildcat3164]

Pay no mind to these 'compensating' American fellows Vince. They seem to think you need artillery to hunt anything larger than a rabbit. I guided for 38 years in the Canadian rockies and my American clients always brought way too much rifle for whatever they were hunting. I've taken every big game animal in North America with my .303,.308, ,270, and .243 as I am sure you have in SA. If you can shoot straight you don't need a cannon!🦌🐐🦬🍲

[@timbucker]

@@albertawildcat3164 Just curious which one you'd choose if you could only have one...

[@albertawildcat3164]

@@timbucker the 270, it's been my favorite for a long time. Good long range performance and range of bullet weights.

[@timbucker]

@@albertawildcat3164 Thank you!

[@jakelindau292]

Taken 2 elk with a 7mm wsm and 17 with a 300 win mag. Closest and farthest with the 7 at 28 yards and 532. 300 win is from 70 yards out to 430. Shot placement is everything.

[@mikelobdell2666]

If you asked what cartrige have you killed the most elk with the first 3 spots would probably be any order of 300 win-mag, 7mm rem-mag, 30 06

[@workct4102]

30-06 has more tags filled guaranteed

[@ronvanpelt8196]

Yeah, it's not the cartridge so much as the shooter ability. I'm a veteran senior shooter with lots of range/competition time and my eyeball data tells me that the average hunter is definitely maxed out at 200 yards with 300 yards a slight possibility. UNDER all circumstances not CHERRY picked perfect situations. Test yourself... put a target up at 200 yds (even 100 if thats all you have). Then put your rifle on the bench with 5 rounds in the magazine. Now walk briskly for 2 to 3 minutes a little stair climbing if you like. Now immediately pick up your rifle and fire those 5 rounds as quickly as you can say 5 to 10 seconds max aim time. Now look at your target....Nuff said you'll get my point then. Oh BTW thank you Jim for posting these great videos much appreciated. Emily was priceless in that clip!

[@guardianminifarm8005]

Very well done. 7 Rem. Mag for me. My daughter used a 300 Win Mag a few years ago with a muzzle break to harvest her first. I am with you on 308. I might go out to 500 with my handloads and the right bullet. Thank you.

[@danstanfield5570]

25.06 is bare minimum. A Favorite! You won't believe it. 300 belted WBY. Magnum, shoot 300 belted H&H Magnum at deer and antelope.

[@galendeig6747]

I'm really surprised the .338 Win Mag wasn't on there. Fantastic cartridge for Elk and flat shooting at longer ranges.

[@jam5287]

It’s sadly one of those cartridges that I think is being forgotten. I can never find ammo for mine. And even the bullets for reloading are scarce. It is a badass cartridge and can put down the biggest of animals. I love mine.

[@no_regerts5176]

The soy boys can’t deal with the recoil.

[@billfulgenzi2287]

I was shocked that the .338 Win Mag wasn't 1st. My top 5 would be: .338 Win Mag .300 Win Mag 7mm Remington Magnum 30/06 Springfield .280 Winchester I was very surprised that none of the Weatherby cartridges were listed.

[@Comet-hn3gm]

I use 338 win mag. There are plenty of great rounds, but shot placement is more important than the round. Bullet style is the next most important. I have killed many Elk with 30-06 with good placement and bullets. Use what you have and be good at it.

[@ourlifeinwyoming4654]

Amen. I learned to hunt elk from a hunting legend in Montana. He had a couple of stipulations when he took you out. One of them was the requirement to bring a .338. He had a coveted stash of Trophy Bonded Bear Claw bullets. In his home he had a couple of mason jars full of elk ivory teeth. He was dialed in with and insisted upon the .338 with results to back it. All that being said, his primary location required 300 - 400 yard shots. He wounded one the he never found back in the 70's with a 30-06. That's why he went with the .338 he told me.

[@BB-nw3mj]

People are going out and buying the 6.5 PRC for hunting and already have a .270 Win in the safe....silly

[@adamclarkson724]

Great rounds both

[@thegrantdanielsband]

@@adamclarkson724 Can always sell the 270 🙂

[@JVR-gd7zw]

I like gun(s) and have to test things for myself. Having shot out a 270 barrel which was rebarrel 280ai and own 6.5prc. The 6.5 projectile worked better in my opinion. Not much but in elk and bear I found myself saying, wow that was devastating more than with 270. Although I ended up liking 5+1 enough to build a 270ai. Yes I hate trimming brass that much or shoot that much. 5+1 is because I got 20 in pack. Never understood leaving exposed ammo on gun. Just randomly check coal of ammo. As careful as I might they get dinged exposed lead tip can change shape, hollow cavity can plug, or ice/water on case and change pressure.

[@BB-nw3mj]

@@JVR-gd7zw That devastation is all bullet choice..within 500 yards I can load a .270 WIN in 140-150 grain bullet to do anything a 6.5 PRC can do if not more. and with a larger diameter wound channel. You are correct in that the difference is not great but if I already have a nice accurate .270 WIN I just dont think there is enough difference in a pure hunting application to buy a 6.5PRC unless someone just wants one...which is also fine. You don't really have to have an excuse to go buy a rifle. But if were going to get a another rifle I am going to step it up couple notches and get a .300 PRC or .300 WSM. If I did not have a .270Win I would go 6.5 PRC all the way...mainly because the industry is going that way and it does start to have some advantage at longer distances. It's all application.

[@VinnyVince762]

😂 we want shortish action and shorter barrel lifespan 😂

[@allanboyer2769]

I'm 60 yo now, got my first gun when I was twelve. I have been hand loading since I was 16. The first rifle cartridge I ever loaded for was .30/06, and I still own and load for it today. I've had .300 Win mag, takes a lot of powder and kicks like an army mule. It is a fine cartridge, just not as comfortable for me to shoot as the /06. It tends to destroy more meat with that extra 300 fps velocity. If you are a guy taking long shots, it will give you longer range and a bit more punch. I sold mine to my brother and he does use it for elk.

[@jordanmoore332]

I have a elk hunt next month, and it us between the 300 WSM with the 200 Gr. Terminal Ascents and the 6.8 Western with the factory 175 Browning load. As I have been shooting these both throughout the year at 500 to 800 yards I become more impressed with the 6.8 and less impressed with the 300 WSM, both shoot great and adjustments between the loads are nearly identical but I find myself having an easier time hitting first round impacts with the western on smaller targets at longer distances.

[@mt4merica400]

I have killed many elk in my life. 300 wsm is hands down my favorite for folding them big critters across the canyon. Good luck on your elk hunt.

[@toddmartin3962]

my elk hunt in Wyoming starts next weekend and I'm taking those exact same guns: 300 WSM, 6.8Western. Handloads are 212 ELDx @ 2760 FPS out of the WSM and 170 Berger EOL @ 2925 FPS out of the 6.8W, both are shooting sub-quarter-inch groups. the 300WSM will be my primary rifle, taking the 6.8W just in case something weird happens during travel, etc. Did take a cow elk from 340 yards with the 68W last year in Eager AZ, 1 shot with the 175 TGK, DRT, no movement, no steps. Best wishes on your hunt!

[@WallDiver7]

I've reloaded a lot of ammo for my son's 300WSM. I found it to be relatively flat and more accurate when using a 180gr. bullet.

[@TheWVgoodguy22]

I am surprised that one of the quintessential classic elk cartridges was so low, including being below the 308, 270 Win, 7mm 08, etc… and that is the .338 Win Mag.

[@beludo06]

I think its because its such a big cartridge, only a dedicated elk hunter would choose one, where the rest of them are more likely to be used in different applications. In short, you can kill elk with a 270, but an 338 would be overkill for white tail. Why they other smaller calibers would be more favored by the general public. Thats my 2 cents.

[@TheWVgoodguy22]

@@beludo06 yeah that’s what I was thinking too about the reasoning behind that. I would have no problem taking a 338 Win Mag deer 🦌 hunting, but like you said most people including myself have other options. Like my 270 Win and 300 WSM.

[@willelliott5052]

I will elk hunt with the 7 PRC starting this Saturday. While I expect fine performance, because it was just released, its placement on this list, as with my purchase, is purely theoretical.

[@JosephBacon-m1t]

Breaks my heart that the 6.8 Western never took hold. Great ballistics in a powerhouse short action. 165 gr. Accubond is an amazing round with great long range performance.

[@mr.caceres305]

6.8 western should take some time. Of the people I have heard using it love it. I’m deciding between 6.8W and 7prc.

[@JosephBacon-m1t]

Mr. Carceres305 as much as I hate to say this, I’d go with 7PRC. All companies at this time seemed to have abandoned 6.8 western. Everything is hard to find for that round.

[@thepiedpiper-i7x]

I wouldn’t write it off yet or at least I hope they don’t: it is an excellent cartridge design based off the 7RSAUM case, is the most recent short-magnum entry of the only two SM-cartridges Winchester/Browning still hold a patent to! I’m actually in the process of building one myself, but as is usual here in 🇨🇦; were always late in catching up, so ammo/components will still be hard to find for quite a while, but I’m convinced given time, it will re-establish itself between all these .270 aficionados!

[@thepiedpiper-i7x]

@@exothermal.sprocket Not really: its basically a necked-down & very slightly altered 7RSAUM case!

[@exothermal.sprocket]

@@thepiedpiper-i7x Didn't one rifle maker recently release a faster-twist .270 Winchester?

[@jobo1647]

Extremely happy with the performance of my .325 WSM, 220 gr SGK at 2850fps with Superformance. Hoping for an elk or moose tag next year.

[@JCTaylor21]

I'm a fan of the 325 WSM as well. Try Alliant Reloder 26 and Reloder 17 in your 325.

[@jobo1647]

@JCTaylor21 If I can find them I will!

[@walthall9698]

Great article as usual. As usual I hunted with a 300 WM again this year with great results. One shot kills even at extended ranges, this years large bull was at 564 yds. I have used the Nosler accubond for a while now including the long range version but have switched to the Speer Impact which is a better bullet. 84 grains of MagPro and the 190 Impact going 3050 was some of the best performance I have had in quite a while. 93% retention at extended range and excellent performance utterly destroying the liver. Coastal elk here in Oregon are much tougher than the Rocky Mt. and also a good bit larger body wise. FYI your beloved 6.8 western ISN'T better than the 270 WSM.

[@Joe-t1p6t]

Hey, did you know in Colorado, we have both the Rocky mountain, and the Roosevelt 😮

[@GwadeG12]

I've taken 2 with 270 one shot each. 3 with 7 mag one shot each as well. Both calibers are amazing. We will be using a .270 on elk this weekend 🤞🤞🤞

[@krisshepherd740]

I shoot a 160g accubond out of a 7mm mag with great success. My 270win I haven't shot elk with yet. My rifle shoots most bullets great. 145gEldx, 136g terminal ascent and 130 g cx. Hat bullet are you using?

[@Tulip258]

You did an excellent job at getting a very interesting comment section going haha. Im enjoying people’s back and forth debates more than the content!

[@aaronwilcox6417]

Id be happy with an 30-06 using an controll feed action 2-12× optic, proper positional shooting sling and Sig ranging bino for firing solutions. This can do a lot and it all the paraphernalia one needs quite honestly.

[@keithbryantjr.3020]

I’m using a Remington 700 30-06 with a 3x9x40 scope and shooting the federal fusion 165 grain. Rangefinder and knowing what your round drops at a certain distance is all a man needs. Comfortable taking 3-400 yard shots with this setup

[@kennethkeehn450]

You make very cool videos I don’t chime in much and I hate to take up your time. I must say you are the happiest man at your work I have ever seen Allways smiling God bless you and you family bro.

[@wyattgraham5711]

I'm not surprised that the 6.8 western didn't make the list. I do think it needs to be an honorable mention. I am surprised that the berger eol made the list though. For factory ammo, it was a very fair analysis. Handloading and elevation can change where the bullets are effective out to. I would like to see the effective ranges redone at a different elevation, I believe this was a sea level analysis. I usually see elk 8,000 ft and higher. I personally do have an -06 load that is above 2000 fps at 800 yards for 8,000 ft elevation. The great thing about this video is it's not a debate, but it includes the debate of very few wrong choices.

[@backfire]

Good point about the elevation and max range. I just use this same excel sheet for all my vids, but in this case it would be better to see the numbers at 8,000.

[@danielworrel]

I agree. Most elk are killed above 8000 feet of elevation. I assume the data he is presenting is at sea level. I also think 2000 ft./s is arbitrary. I care more about down range energy.

[@wyattgraham5711]

@@danielworrel I am going to debate that one. Feet per second is what most bullets are rated for on adequate expansion. 3,000 ft-lbs with a 180 grain bullet is way different than 3,000 ft-lbs energy with a 225 grain bullet.

[@BcFuTw9jt]

Don't personally know anyone running a 6.8 or seen anyone use one and I guide out of Cody Wy or Pine Creek MT for the last 8 years

[@tonesmith909]

I run 6.8 Western also, 170gr Bergers. While its a great cartridge its just not that popular and I think Hornady will market the 7prc to surpass its wonderful attributes. Makes no difference to me as I reload and I am getting 2990 fps out of my Bergers, easily drop elk past 600yards. I suspect “guides” dont see them because anyone who owns 6.8 likely reloads and is a hunter who does not need one. Imo the 300winmag is the best all around cartridge , you dont have to load it so hot to kick so hard. If I didnt have the 6.8s Id be a 300winmag guy.

[@steveblack5952]

Glad to hear P.O. Ackley is finally getting credit. P.O. was from Utah. So is the 50 BMG, 380 AUTO, 45 ACP. Oddly enough I have dropped elk with 308, 338 lapua, 30-06, my regular pack rifle is 257 weatherby. If your dropping elk past 500 your just practicing long range. Your not stocking and hunting. Give the elk a chance. I know longer drop elk at a grand or more.

[@robinharris6771]

What is an "expert" ? Folks harvest elk with bows and muzzle loaders. They get closer than 100 yds. That takes some kind of expert. Does packing a 338 Lapua Arctic Warrior make you an expert? Do 800 yd shots make you an expert? IMO, the Expert Elk Hunter does not worry so much about "the ultimate cartridge" The HUNTER can use a Savage 99 in 300 Savage or Grandpa's old 30-40 Krag and get clean kills. Is that "Expert"? I'll agree its best to use an adequate cartridge and an appropriately constructed bullet. The rifle must be sighted in. Very important, the shooter MUST be able to follow through and call the shot. Why? You call the shot by having a mental image if the sights in target as the gun recoils. That means your eyes are open. Thats a great start for shot placement. I'm not knocking the 300 Win Mag. Its a great cartridge . If you can shoot it without flinching. Many cannot. A Hunter with a .260, a 7mm-08, a 308,etc,or a 25-06, a 270, a 280, a 30-06, will likely be able to shoot it. If the Hunter gets within 300 yds (another part of "expert") the Hunter can decide "I;m steady and I KNOW I can make this shot. Thats good. Even better ? "Wind is blowing too hard. " Or "I am blowing too hard" Wait. Or get closer. Or pass in the shot. THAT is EXPERT. That said...I'm not an expert. I've built and carried a 375 Chatfield -Taylor (375/338) and a 30-338.. Just because I build rifles and it was my preference. If you show up with a 308, a 270, a 280, a 30-06.... You are doing fine. I dont think my over 70 year old body is in good enough shape for another elk hunt, (An "expert" is in physical shape) If I did, I might use my 1903A4 copy or my peep sight 30-40 Krag. I might hang at camp and cook a pot of stew or chili. You never know. Those high energy young hunters just might drive an elk in front of them right into camp, Age and Treachery vs Youth and Enthusiasm

[@gunningforsurvival6568]

I’m glad u mentioned the .308 I don’t know why, but for some reason I was under the impression that you weren’t a fan of 308 I was glad to see how it measured up to the rest thou

[@backfire]

I usually pick the flatter shooting cartridges for th big open canyons where I hunt but there’s no doubt it’s capable if used at an appropriate distance.

[@arthurshingler2025]

The 300 WSM pretty powerful and a little better than a 30-06 (one of my favorites).... can be had in a handy rifle. I like mine, and it's in a cheapo Model 70.

[@patrioticguy1791]

I just purchased a Bergara B14 a week ago and took it to the range Saturday for the first time. 24-in barrel and I only achieved 2870 FPS with Hornady precision Hunter 175's. I was a little disappointed but it shot .4" groups.

[@backfire]

What cartridge? 7 prc? That does seem a little slow but I bet the barrel will speed up 50fps after you’ve shot 100 rounds through it.

[@patrioticguy1791]

@@backfire 7MM PRC.

[@liftheavyhunthard09]

Glad to see the old 30 06 still kicking... that is what i have used to kill the 10 elk and 13 deer that i have harvested and it has been great. I am color blind so an exit wound is pretty important for me to be able to track and i have only ever had one pass through on a spike bull so my next rifle i will be purchasing is likely going to be a 300WSM or a 300 Win Mag just to get that next level punch. Enjoyed the video!

[@sidepass]

Kind of funny you kill elk and harvest deer.

[@skeeterdavis5777]

​@@sidepassread again what he said. It's cool when somebody says something and they twist it around.😂

[@liftheavyhunthard09]

​@sidepass haha interesting observation not sure why I said it that way the end result is the same.

[@bustabass9025]

The .340 Weatherby has been a stalwart elk rifle for decades. Recoil is a fact of life with high velocity cartridges; I get it. Weatherby was producing flat out elk killing rifles and cartridges, long before this sudden surge of flavor-of-the-month, shoulder fired hot rods, started showing up all over the gun mag landscape.

[@twolak1972]

You bet , The 340 weatherby is about AS GOOD AS IT GETS.

[@davecamilleri9411]

Maybe another question should be how many elk have you wounded and not recovered with your favorite caliber. I shoot a 338 RUM loaded hot and typically with a 300 gr Berger running 2850. Muzzle energy at the muzzle is close to 5400 ft lbs and muzzle energy at 1K is about what a 308 has at the muzzle. Overkill, absolutely not, it kills quickly, most shots are DRT with a couple of exceptions, but I have never had to track a well placed hit on an elk. I have made a couple of bad hits, gut shots and the elk was hurt badly enough that I followed it and finished it off. Longest kill to date is 850 yards on a late season cow. Many kills over 500 yards, including two cows last December and both were 585 yards one shot kills. I use a very good muzzle brake and good hearing protection to tame the beast. One other thing, I live and hunt in Wyoming and there are way too many Grizzly bears in the woods. I also rely on my choice as a self defense tool against big angry Grizzlies. For the record I killed my first elk over 25 years ago and my average is over 2 per year as we can have up to 3 elk licenses a year in Wyoming. My friends hunt with 300 RUM, 300 Weatherby, 300 Winchester Mag, and a few with 7MM Remington mag. and a couple friends shoot 338 Rum and 338 Edge. The people I know that shoot 6.5 Creedmores wound a lot of game and typically have to take 5 or more shots to put an elk down.

[@davecamilleri9411]

Another successful elk hunt, 350 yards 250 gr Berger from the 338 RUM, first shot dropped him in his tracks, but I shot high and broke his back, second shot through the shoulder and done. He never took a step and best part was for once in my life I got to drive my Jeep right to the elk and use the headlights to see while I quartered him up while looking for Grizzly bears over my shoulders in the snow.

[@billyhancock7851]

So you are another 6.5 Creedmoor hater, I noticed you didn't mention how many elk got away from 243, 22-250, 270, 6,5 , 7mm prc, 7mm Rem Mags, 45-70, 308, 30-06, 300, win mag, 338 win mag, 308 Norma, 8mm Norma mag, 350 Legend ect,ect JUST 6.5 creedmoor, yea ok

[@riverwalker2173]

​@@billyhancock7851just ignore the ignorant. He probably would say the same about the older 7mm-08 Rem

[@marvinmagruder1067]

This is some nice info. Everyone has their own preference. As a gunsmith's opinion I would not go out and purchase a firearm if I already have something that will down an elk. No matter what the caliber, a firearm is no better than the person pulling the trigger. I hand load my own ammo. It is much better than factory ammo. I have toured the Sierra bullet factory. I am a big fan of Sierra. No matter what lead you are using it is no better than shot placement. I have no problem taking a 3006 elk hunting. A 270 is really good also as long as the shooter knows how to handle it correctly. Just my two pennies worth. Keep up on the nice videos.

[@lesalbjerg5648]

Very interesting list. I am a very serious elk hunter. I've taken 20 plus Elk, and for me it is the Remington 300 UltraMag all the way if I could only have one gun. I've moved to the Hammer Bullets from being one who used to use Barnes and Swift before. .

[@TheMightyflea2001]

I 100% Agree with you!! 300 RUM is an all out hammer with the right ammunition. Nosler ACCUBOND LONG RANGE 210 Grain is my go too.

[@backfire]

So a question. Not criticizing at all-just wanting to understand your perspective. If you go 300 RUM, you either want crazy power or crazy flat shooting. But then a copper bullet compromises the BC so you’re not crazy flat shooting. And a copper bullet could easily penetrate all the way with much less power. So why 300 RUM and a copper? Seriously asking, as I like to get lots of different perspectives. Hope you don’t mind the question.

[@lesalbjerg5648]

Excellent questions! I feel I could write a book. There is a third part of the equation and that is speed. I am pushing the Hammers really fast. I used the 210 Burgers for many years. I am not sure you have examined Hammer Bullets out of Montana, but they are designed to kill by going all the way through with a minimum terminal velocity of 1,800 fps. I am shooting lighter copper bullets at some insane speeds. I'm shooting an accurate load sub M.O.A. with the 137 grain Hammer Hunter at 3,850 FPS. Max PBR is 437 yards according to JBM calculator. I have a self imposed limit of 600 yards at elk and this load still has lethal velocity and energy at that range. Hammer has solved the engraving pressure issue with copper bullets. I enjoyed your video "The Fastest Bullet" I was going to comment but will now. I have an accurate load with the 124 grain Hammer Hunter that averages just a hair over 4,200 FPS. Just for the fun of it and being ultra careful, I and a few others have been able to do what P.O. Ackley always wanted to do, but couldn't with the bullets in his era. I broke the 5,000 fps barrier with the 110 grain Blackout bullet from Hammer in the 300 RUM. Another advantage of the light fast bullets is less real and felt recoil Thanks for your great work on your KZbin channel. I learn a lot. I was excited because I think my next rifle is one you are excited about, the 300WSM. I'm not sure if you have ever looked at Hammer Bullets. Weatherby now has some in factory loads, and I think there will be more to come.@@backfire

[@altonguis8870]

@@backfire Great question Sir...

[@altonguis8870]

@@lesalbjerg5648 Great answer and speed is one thing a lot of people over look, small or smaller projectile moving extremely fast is devasting. Double the speed and quadrupole the energy where most people go for mass/weight (double the mass and double the energy)...

[@edwardbrown1051]

I lived and hunted in Colorado in the mid-70’s to mid-80’s and a favorite elk cartridge of local residents was the .243, 100gr. Watched a young lady take her first cow with one at just over 600 yards.

[@VR-vv2qe]

I think many people inflated their distances compensating for things.

[@Tomffoolery]

You are projecting lol

[@cmiller1190]

Great video! So basically what it boils down to, is if you're good with recoil, & in grizzly country, the .300 Win mag is hard to beat! If you're recoil sensitive, you'll be hard pressed to do better than the .270 Win. If you want be somewhere in between, the 7 Rem Mag has the answer for you, with the 7 PRC being an awesome alternative at the top end too! Now having watched the video, it begs the question, "Why haven't we seen a .270 AI ?" It would, for all practical purposes, in every way, totally outperform the 6.5 PRC, the 6.8 Western, and the. 280 AI.

[@ryandearing60]

I still think 6.8 Western is the Golidlocks cartridge. Heavy enough for most anything you want to hunt without massive recoil. We've killed 2 elk and a mountain goat so far.

[@thedirtygot9570]

If tikka made a rifle in it, maybe would catch on better!

[@calvinruggles732]

I've never made up my mind on the 270 for elk. I have a lot of family that use it, and have seen a LOT of elk killed with it. Unfortunately, I've also seen more runoffs produced by that cartridge than any other. So as I said, I've never made up my mind on it, and use my 300 win mag

[@riverwalker2173]

Then stick with your 300 mag. Don't overthink it.