08-16-2013, 03:37 AM
Just one, shoot several rifles in different calibers, don't buy anything which you can't practice with comfortably. I'm with the other guys on multiple calibers for the right job. I elk hunt with a .300 WSM, the rifle is a featherweight and I don't care who you are you will know you've been shooting it, I've got several .308's which are mild recoiling rifles. You need to be proficient with the rifle so consider the cost and availability of the ammunition. For a new shooter I would recommend any of the above peoples recommendations. If you were a family member I would tell you to buy a 30.06 (cost and availability of ammunition, recoil impulse, wide variety of commercially manufactured cartridges' can buy a box at most gas stations in a hunting community in a pinch). Do not skimp on your optics, they are as or more important than your rifle regarding accuracy, best rifle in the world will not group with a pos scope. You will likely have it for the rest of your life so I wouldn't buy cheap, it will likely cost you more in the long run when you have to replace it or it costs you a trophy you didn't make a good shot on. Just my 2 pennies
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