Which caliber for mule deer

[Dirtdevil]

Here's my question. I have had a last minute change to go on a once in a lifetime mule deer hunt in Alberta. And I don't feel like any of my rifles are completely dialed in. Calibers to choose from 300 rsaum. 308 7mm Rem mag. 308 is closest to being done. Just need to confirm data. 300 is good for 400 yds. 7mm is in the load development stage. Current load is 3/4to 1 moa I have 2 days to get one ready. What would you do

 

[Dirtdevil]

I probably won't limit any shots to 600 and under

 

[manitou]

Pic the one you are most comfortable shooting with at this time. Easy answer. Any will have the fpe and velocity to kill a mule deer easily out to 500+ yards if you do your part. Pic the "most dialed in" one.

 

[Orange Dust]

Whichever one you have the most confidence in. Sounds like you have doubts about all of them. Take them to the range and decide there. Pack tonight. Shoot some more when you get to Alberta. Have a great time!!!

 

[codyadams]

.308 can get pushed around in even moderate wind depending on what bullet you choose, but accuracy is most important. I would do the next stage in load developement for the 7mm rem mag, and take both the .308 and 7mm out, validate the .308 and shoot the 7mm, sometimes you get lucky and find a great load right off. Then if you do, take the 7mm rem mag out and validate it as well and then if it is as good/better than the .308, you can choose. But definately get your .308 squared away so you have that if nothing else.

 

[CVCOBRA1]

Grab one and get it done. Don't try to wrestle with three or even two to get the job done. Put your mind on one and finish it.

 

[snox801]

Yep just take the one that's most dialed in and go with it.

 

[sable tireur]

You haven't given us very much information to work with in order to help with your decision.

How developed is the .308 Win?
What is the bullet type and brand?
What is the bullet weight?
Have you developed a confidence with this rifle and load?

Personally, I'd be all over the .308 Win. and ignore opinions about trying to get any other rifle ready. Finish the .308 then start packing so you have time to remember what all needs to go with you. Passport, ammo, permission slip for the rifle to cross into Canadian air space, etc. Then consider the weather carefully and pack your clothing choices.

I hope you have a tremendous time and a successful hunt!

 

[26Reload]

Leave them all and buy a creedmore.....they shoot everything perfectly right out of the box......or so we have heard a million times....

 

[Dirtdevil]

Dang never thought about the creed. I do have one of those in a 6 dialed in !!! The 308 is losded with 168 Bergers 2700 FPS under a .5 moa all day long verified at distance. Been shooting that rifle a lot for a couple of year. Recently changed from the 155s to the 168s haven't shot it much past 500 to check the dope. Only concern with this gun is the energy at 600. Looks like about 1100. Would not hesitate to use it on a whitetail That's what I put it together for. Wasn't sure if that's enough thump on a muley

 

[sable tireur]

1,100 ft/lbs of energy at 600 yards is more than sufficient for Mule Deer. They do not wear armor plating. I've killed then out west with a 6mmXC. Precision and accuracy for shot placement will win the day for you in this hunt. Shoot one in the heart, lungs or neck and it's game over.

 

[CVCOBRA1]

I hate to say this, if you have a 6CM dialed in, take that. 243's have been killing mulies for decades. Just make sure that 6CM had a game bullet and not a target bullet.

 

[Dirtdevil]

Yea the 6 has match bullets loaded. I feel very confident in the 308 just wasn't sure about the energy. I am very conscious about quick ethical kills I think the 308 will make the trip It's printing a 2to 3 in group at 500 every trip to the range Thanks for the input guys

 

[manitou]

Kill a big one... and post pics for us!