The 264 win mag is a belted mag based on the 375 h and h case shortend or a similar variant from holland and holland. Its in the old school barrel burner class as it really screams the lead down the barrel. In my opinion i would call it a early 26 nosler but not quiet as fast. With the right load and a 130grn or 129grn accubond longe range at around 3100 fps or slightly more this caliber is capable taking elk at a fair range 500ish max range with a good shooter. Moose might be a bit much at that range but better at the 300 yard range. Thats my opinion on what i like for knock down power and i like a little extra power when it comes to the bigger game than a deer. With the new 26 nosler out and comparing info on these 2 i would say the barrel burner thing is from the past with newer steels for the barrel on this caliber in 264 win mag. I'm considering building one. I think it is a fine mid caliber choice bigger than 243 smaller than 7mm leaves you with 264 or 277 and jack oconnor shot the **** out of a 270 and the were a few europeans that really liked the 264 win mag. This has good potiential as you dont see a lot of 264 win mags running around for a conversation piece and the what did you shoot that with thats not big enough. I hear that from a friend when i grab my 270 for elk hunting and i just point to my jack o'connor picture and he just gets in the truck and stays quiet for the rest of the day lol