New To Rifles

[joetc]

I want to buy my first deer rifle and i need some help. Can someone explain to me the different calibers and the differences between them. For instance the size of the bullet, velocity, range, accuracy, and anything else I should know. And can you suggest a good caliber choice for hunting whitetails in northern minnesota specifically.

Thanks,
Joe

[cynic]

There are so many variables. Size (height weight)..For me I like the Rem 700 youth in a 7mm/08. I'm 5'8" with jacket the shorter stock is more comfortable. The bullet and trajectory is flatter than a 308 with almost the same energy. 308 has more variety of bullet weights and is also a great cartridge. 300 win mag or 7mm mag little more recoil not as unbearable as one would think. 30/06 270 280 are all good choices with cartridges available just about anywhere. Check with friends shoot there guns and see what you like

[DocHolladay]

I agree with Cynic. Try several different rifles, and calibers. You may like a caliber and not the rifle or vise versa. Try the local firearms dealer. Hold and point several rifles and get a feel for them. Dont be scared to ask questions. Like he also said, ask your friends to shoot theirs. I myself, like the .30-30 and .270. I have shot .30-06's and several others. I always go back to the old reliables. Good luck and hope you find a winner.

[cinrds]

ASK A LOT OF QUESTIONS!

Look at where and what you will be hunting. If you are hunting close less then 100yds a 30-30 is really hard to beat (I use one when hunting in brush). I know people you hunt pronghorn and whitetail and will only use a 270 (long flat shot). I got a great deal on a 30-06 and I love it. It can be used to hunt almost anything and amo as with the other two can be found anywhere.

If you figure out what you want and can't find it Wal-Mart can order just ask to see their gun book, and it has the price's in the book.

Also go to the gun makers websites and see what you like and don't like as well as going to ammo makers website. At their sites you can learn all you want to learn about the different calibers; size, energy, velocity, amount of drop and so on. By doing this you can not find out how they feel or how they shoot, there is only one way to do this.

After you get your gun buy a good scope and go out and try different ammo and see what you like and what fits the best.

If you are happy with it and can shot it then it is a great gun.