BoilerUP
Member
How long will it take a hunter to "shoot out" a barrel though, even one that is a teenager?
Motega; I don't know where you "Just Read" this information, but that is so wrong it's pathetic. First; every manufacturer of rifles is different. It's not possible to say that a particular CALIBER BARREL will last a certain number of rounds. That's totally ridiculous. And for what it's worth; I've had my Savage 110E 7mm Remington Magnum for just over 20 years now. I don't shoot it that often except right before hunting season to sight in and have a little fun; but at the BARE MINIMUM; I shoot at least 100 rounds a year. So at the very least, I have about 2000 rounds through it. And the barrel isn't anywhere near "Worn Out". What you read is simply wrong.I just read barrel life on a 7mm mag is about 800 rounds. That just plain sucks, especially for a kid looking for a life-long hunting rifle. A new barrel will be slightly different even on the same action... so as soon as you can say you really "know" that rifle it'll be time to basically start all over again.
If you are relying on the few extra yards a 7mm shoots flat for, my advice would be to work on becoming a better hunter and able to get closer to game.
Also consider the resale value if you ever want to sell the rifle. A .30-06 has a much wider market than a 7mm. There are guys that won't even consider buying a 7mm mag BECAUSE of the short barrel life and because it is completely unnecessary on North American game.
I wouldn't give even a great deal a second look- you might be able to GIVE me one, but I wouldn't offer you 1/10th of what it is probably worth.
No matter where you go you can find ammo for a .30-06 and you can find a better selection of bullets as well.
As far as kick goes, give me a break please... 100 pound girls I shoot with can shoulder our .300 mags, Weatherbys, etc. without complaint.
But WHY is the question? Believe me, a .30-06 will kill anything under 100 yards which is where you should be anyway.
[So, to have a summary of this page, a 7mm will do me fine, and will do fine for the hunting i will be doing as well, but the 30-06 will also be a great caliber? /QUOTE]
YES..!