I own a very nice customized Marlin 336C in .30-30 as well as a CZ550FS in .30-06. These rifles obviously cover different spectrums as far as performance, which is why I own both of them. A year or so ago I bought a 336XLR chambered in .30-30, as I figured it would make a fine hunting rifle. I like the XLR a lot, and it is very accurate with the Hornady .30-30 LeverEvolution ammo. But sometimes I find myself wondering if I should have waited for the Marlin rifles chambered in .308 Marlin Express. So my question is this: what is the real world difference in performance between the .30-30 LeverEvolution and the .308 Marlin Express assuming the following:
Both the .30-30 LE and .308 ME are loaded with 160 gr bullets.
Marlin XLR rifle with 24" barrel.
Shots are taken within 200 yards, most probably less than 100 yards.
I realize the .308 ME is much closer to the .308Win in performance, but what will the practical difference be at the above listed ranges? Better penetration? Better expansion? How much better? Or will the effect on potential game be pretty much the same within the effective range of the .30-30 LE cartridges?
Both the .30-30 LE and .308 ME are loaded with 160 gr bullets.
Marlin XLR rifle with 24" barrel.
Shots are taken within 200 yards, most probably less than 100 yards.
I realize the .308 ME is much closer to the .308Win in performance, but what will the practical difference be at the above listed ranges? Better penetration? Better expansion? How much better? Or will the effect on potential game be pretty much the same within the effective range of the .30-30 LE cartridges?