X-bolt or Model 70? 6.5, .284 or .30?

[swNEhunter]

I'm looking for a new rifle to add to my collection. I have a Ruger M77 Mkii 270 Win. that I've used for elk and deer. I am wanting to add a different caliber for shooting distances of 500-1000 yards. It will also be used for big game hunting.

I have it narrowed down to a Browning X-bolt or Winchester Model 70 because I can get a killer deal on either one. The calibers I was thinking were 6.5 Creedmoor, 7mm rem mag., or .300 win mag.

What are your guys' experiences with these models/calibers? Is there a different caliber i should be looking at? I really appreciate everyone's input!

 

[CarJunkieLS1]

For big game hunting at 500-1000 yards it's .300 Win Mag all they way simply because it delivers the most amount of down range energy.

But you better know your rifle, load data, scope corrections, judge wind, etc. and be able to get first round hits 100% of the time on a pie plate at extended distance.

 

[Corn-Picker]

No offense, but I think you need to figure out if you want a hunting rifle or a target rifle. If I'm shooting big game at 500-1000 yards I want a seven pound 300 WM, which is not something I want to punch paper with.

I'd go shoulder them and see which one fits you best. I wanted to like the x-bolt, but the stock just did not fit me. The Model 70 is CRF whereas the x-bolt is push feed, if that matters to you. I personally prefer CRF (because I can prevent it from throwing brass six feet away when I'm on the bench). Both are fine rifles.

 

[swNEhunter]

Thanks for the advice. Just to clarify, I won't be shooting animals out to 1000. I'd like to shoot paper out to 1000. If I took it hunting, I don't think I would ever shoot over 500.

 

[swNEhunter]

I know ideally I would have 2 rifles, one for target shooting and one more geared toward hunting. I can tell you right now that hunting is more important to me than punching paper. I just thought I'd add something different to my arsenal than the 270.