I think it’s the .257 Roberts or the 6.5x55mm Swedish Mauser. These cartridges have historically been overshadowed by more popular choices, but they offer impressive ballistics and performance for deer hunting.
Try and buy 257 Bob ammunition? The Swede I agree as own 2 both in modern rifles and super accurate Ammunition is widely available in the big box stores and online Domestic and European loadings. It’s not the size of the hammer but where it smacks 7mm-08 I agree as own 3 of them great on hogs and deer and been using it for many years
7mm08 is a sweet little round for sure. I remember when it was somewhat popular. Same for the 25-06 as well. Strange how some things stick around while others fade away. How long did the .260 stick around? Anyone remember the 8mm Magnum? Now you have me wanting a 7-08 😢
@@brentbusick2245it's a shame too. It gave you the best of both worlds between the .270 and 06. It could mirror .270 performance and outperform the 30-06 up to 165 grain with the more efficient 7mm bullet.
I've been using the 25-06 for 37 years, I have taken everything from large bull elk to ground squirrels with this cartridge and have had nothing but superior results. It's an accurate cartridge, mild recoil and performs at a higher level than you would ever expect, this is a cartridge everyone should have!
270 Winchester is a good round too. If you zero a 130 grain interlock at 27 yards it hits 3" high at 150 Yards and 3" Low at 300 yards and still carries 1,654 ft lbs of energy at 300 yards. The most ethical hunting for the average Joe is probably 300 yards or less IMO.
I agree 270 win is awesome I have taken every animal in North America with this cartridge musk ox moose elk all the deer all the goats and sheep and all three bear. Wolves and cats as well. Big game my rifle loves the 140 gr sierra and nozzlers
My first new store bought rifle was a Weatherby Vanguard in 25-06. I was hunting Pennsylvania and the 25-06 was the hammer for those long shots on gas/power line easements. I sold it when I was drafted in 1969. About a year ago a good friend of mine won a Weatherby Vanguard, 25-06. Living in Ohio, he had no use for it. I was at his house one day and saw it. LOVE!! I asked if he was up for a trade and traded him a Bushmaster AR-15 for it. I now can ,once again, shoot from one zip code to another.
7mm-08 has got to be my favorite and the best all-around cartridge. Especially if you are a reloader. More bullet weight options than 6.5cr which gives it the ability to take small game to Elk with no problem. Better barrel life and still shoots fast/flat and soft for new or small shooters. I love it.
7mm-08 is my primary hunting cartridge. I love that gun. I've got a ton of other guns in similar cartridges - .257 Roberts, 6.5x55, 6.5 Creed, .243 Win, - and some bigger stuff (.270, .308, .30-06), but 7mm-08 has always felt just "right" for me. Recoil of a .30-30 with the range of a .30-06.
My favorite “forgotten round” is the 7x57! From O’Conner’s pronghorns to Bell’s elephants, the 7x57 Mauser has unbelievable versatility and the documented history to back it up!
I shoot one on a Mauser action. Not the old barrel but a 275 Rigby same as 7x57 except for the angle of the taper on the shoulder. It's a tac driver 145 grn and hardly any recoil
WTW, I am 72 years old and thoroughly enjoy your TH-cam inputs. Thank you. I wanted to comment on the really random idea of needing a 1000 ft pounds of energy to kill a deer. My first question to the proponents of this idea is, "If a 1000 ftlbs is needed, how do you explain all of the deer taken with pistols?" My second question is, " If a 1000 ftlbs is needed, how do poachers constantly kill deer, and other animals, with rimfire (22 LR and 22 WMR) cartridges?" Just wondering... Thanks again and keep up the good work!!!
The 270 win was my primary hunting rifle for 20 years although I have always had a 7mm-08. Now things have changed. I bought a tikka t3x lite 7mm-08 with hornady 139gr cx superformance ammo. It's so good I bought another. My family and I used them last year to take deer from 50 yds to 300 yds and only had to track one deer about 75 yds. This will be my go to combo for rifle, caliber, and ammo for the rest of my life. No matter the caliber I keep my shots within 300yds anyway so it's perfect for me.
I was a 30/06 or nothing guy my whole life until my kids got of hunting age. I didn't like the idea of a .243 win. because I liked the ability to use a heavier bullet if needed. After some research, I found the 7mm-08 to be perfect. I would download some 120gr to get them hunting at 5 and 6 years old. Then, as they grew, I'd work the load up to a full power 140gr load. Well, after their 2nd year, they were shooting full power 120gr loads at a shade over 3000 fps. I watched as they dropped deer after deer, on the spot with just as much authority (if not more) as my beloved 180gr load in my ol' '06. I just couldn't believe it. A few years later, they were shooting full power 140 and 150gr loads, 2 guns liked 2 different loads. After years of watching the effectiveness of the '08, I wanted to see if I'd have the same success as they have had. So, I took it out with me on a hunt. To my absolute surprise, bang, flop. The lighter and shorter rifle was easier to pack around here in the woods and hills of Appalachia, easier to maneuver in the stand and killed just as well as my larger guns. All in all, I'm sold on the "little" 7mm-08. With its power and accuracy, I wouldn't be afraid to use it on any North American game. This includes bear. Of course, I'd want a monolithic bullet for that application, but I have no doubt it would have enough penetration and energy to do the job...... Shot placement would definitely be key there😂
@elmercooper5382 I would be more apt to use a .243 in fields than where we hunt mostly. If I had to guess, 90% of our shots are inside of 50 yards. I've seen a few deer hit with 100gr cup and core bullets at that distance out of a .243. A few exited, a few didn't. I also saw a 200lb field dressed buck that was shot quartering to by my cousin. It was a 30ish yard shot, straight through the shoulder with a 100gr Hornaday Innerlock. The only thing left of the bullets was the base with a streak of lead in the middle. It was recovered inside the heart. The .243 is a fine deer cartridge. If it has some time to slow down, or if you can take a near broadside shot. With close range shots at various angles, I personally want a bit more weight than the .243 offers.
@markanderson1009 Facts!! I used a 180gr RN pro hunter in my '06. Our shots are close here, and that 180 is a thumper. I pretty much just use cup and core soft point bullets here because accuracy isn't really necessary when shooting a high power rifle inside of 50 or 60 yards. The exception to that is the 120gr ballistic tip in the 7mm-08. That little bullet is tough. I've recovered the jacket after going through a shoulder and loosing it's core. The recovered jacket weighed 63 grains... over 50% of the bullets mass is in the jacket, basically a 60 something grain monolithic bullet with the shock and energy dump of a cup and core. Pretty devastating design. It just deflects too easily in the woods. The 120gr TTSX is another killer design. I just don't see the need for a premium bullet on whitetail.
7-08 in BLR. I was a steadfast 308 until a few accidents slowed me down. BUT the good Lord gave me a second (3 & 4) chances. Purchased a Browning BLR (lever) in 708. Love it, love it,love it!
I lived out west for almost 10 years (Montana). Everybody I knew who shot a .25-06 swore by it. It took a lot of elk. I've been thinking about trying it, you might have just convinced me.
Great video , it's hard to believe some people haven't heard of 7mm-08 or the 25-06 . Both are considered flat shooters . 7mm-08 is considered light recoil cartridge . Great for beginners . Just like the 243 is .
7 mm -08 is very good round. I have always wanted one. Settle for the 308. Big reasons why I didn’t was not much ammo around my area. Thanks for the info and video.
Another great choice is the old 7x57mm Mauser round. Cartridges are fairly easy to find. One of my sll time favorites. Jack O'Connor wife was a big fan as was Jack. With proper handloading in a modern firearm it surpasses 7mm-08. I'm not knocking the 7mm-08 at all.
25-06 used to be extremely popular. My old neighbor still hunts with it. 7-08 is very popular where I am especially with ladies and youth. Both fantastic rounds. I currently hunt with 308 but will be getting a 6.5prc and putting it in an mdt hnt 26 for a nice lightweight, flat shooting rifle
I watched a guy drop a 320 bull elk with his 25-06 and Nosler ballistic tip ammo at 80 yards. I've not seen many elk drop where they stood but this bull did. I contemplated 7-08 for 20 years but never pulled the trigger so to speak. Instead I went 7RemMag, 280 Rem. I've favored long action most all my shooting life. I do have a sweet Brux 4 groove 7mm barrel #3 contour to build a 7-08 though. Still, I put that on the back burner and I'm working on a 280AI. Just can't get away from long actions since I already have two 308s and 2 more on the way
I have been taking Whitetail Deer here in Georgia since 1980 with a Ruger M77 25/06. Furthermost shot taken so far is 275 yards on 2 does out of same stand 1 right after the other. Both 1 shot kills. never lost a deer with it. Used to get joked at by my brother who hunted with a .270 about using a pellet rifle. Now he owns a 25/06 because he saw the light.
My daughter hunts with the 7mm-08. She has a Remington R25 and a Bergara chambered in it. One very impressive round. Her R25 will put 4 in the same hole at 200 yds with horandy 150 PH. Have yet to have a deer get away from the 7mm-08.
First hunting gun you should have is the 30-30... has taken more deer in north america... i got my first one at 11 y/o. Gun was 100 y/o when i got it in the 90's, both my daughters shot first deers with same gun.
In my circle those are two of the most common cartridges used. We discovered them many years ago. The 25-06 is just a flat shooting deer slayer. All the power needed and fairly mild recoil. Winchester ammo with the 120 grain PEP was the choice. The 7mm-08 is basically like having a 270 Winchester in a smaller package. We always picked a nice lightweight rifle that was a pleasure to carry and short enough to maneuver in a tree stand easily. Another of my favorites is my Ruger 77 compact in 260 Rem. But then I have many favorites that are not always mainstream.
Got my 7mm-08 ruger american last year after my 30-06 had issues grouping. Lack of factory ammo availability at the time got me into reloading. Love it!
Well, I agree with you. The 7-08 is a terrific cartridge, but it's not getting any press. The 25/06 has been a favorite of mine since I was skinny and had hair. I've killed a lot of game with the cartridge. I gotta be honest and say that I have been using the 257 Weatherby more because I have it in a Blaser (took a nice leopard with it in Namibia). It's a favorite travel rifle.
The 25-06 is a magnum in every aspect except for not having the magnum name. I've seen it take whitetails at 400 yards with ease. I wish I still owned one.
270 is my favorite deer cartridge. Hard hitting flat shooting. Never had to chase a deer more then 10 yards. I like your picks though, ive always liked that 7mm 08 cause i can just make it out of some 308 brass lying around. Excellent choice
7mm-08 is probably my favorite centerfire rifle cartridge period. I say 'probably' because I'm really starting to like my 6mm Creedmoor. Back in the day, I used to cull coyotes with a pro friend and tried several different rifles. Mostly using 223, a 243 and a 270 but shot quite a few with the 7mm-08 I had at the time. Didn't love it because I wasn't in love with the rifle. I just like the 243 and 270 rifles more. Now my favorite rifles are my 6mm and the 7mm-08. I did have a 25-06 but it was a really nice rifle and only ended up taking it out once. Killed them plenty dead. We aren't talking extreme ranges here. The furthest I remember shooting one with the 25-06 was about 170 yards. These were 75 Gr VMax. Never took a deer with that rifle. In 7mm-08, I don't remember ever using a lighter bullet than 120. In 270, I used VMax and Speer HPs but most often used either that 130 Gr Core Lokts since they were cheap or two different reloads... cheap HPs. I do really like the 25-06 but I just feel I would almost always opt for a 270 rather than a 25-06. If deciding between the two. Kind of how I'd lean towards a 243 or 6 Creed or 6.5 Creed over a 22-250. All fun cartridges, but I think I just tend to lean towards something slightly heavier, esp if we are talking about very established cartridges.
7mm08 is popular here in New Zealand. Couple of years ago box of 20 was NZ$50-70. Now over $100. I reload now, but still have some factory. Great cartridge and recoil is less than 308 I find. Especially suppressed!
I have a 25-06 a 7mm-08 as well as a 308 and 30-06. I love all 4 of the cartridges and have killed deer with all of them except the 25-06. I am hoping to draw an antelope tag one day and the 25-06 may very well get a mark in the next couple years. As some already mentioned the .257 Roberts may be another underrated cartridge.
I couldn't agree more on these underrated cartridges . I bought my daughter a 7mm08 and it is fantastic. I am in the market for a 25-06 as I am a huge 30-06 fan.
I loved my old 6.5 x 55 swedish mouser I bought at woolworth's for $65 and sporterized it for $200 beans. That sucker slammed em to the ground. I do like the .308 simply because my shots aren't that far and I can always get ammo. My 6mm is getting harder to even reload for and expensive. They changed the 6mm like 3 times before they landed the 6mm as its final cartridge. Worries me about all these new popular calibers that down the road they wont be able to find ammo at a reasonable price.
I think the 280 remington is an outstanding cartridge but never had the privilege to own one. Thinking about a rebarrel on one of my 30-06's to the old 280 remington
If you get a 280 get the Akley improved, it’s got a little better performance, has improved case life for reloading and is one of the only older cartridges that has become more popular and likely more available in factory ammo!
Love the seven mm08 taken two of my best racks with one never personally owned a 25 ought 6 but used to hunt with a 257 Roberts super accurate every deer would drop like a lightning bolt longest shot with it was 275 yards and hit the ground so fast I thought I missed him
So my first gun was a 25/06 and it was great I packed that gun for many years I started reading some reloading books and became obsessed with the 6.5 caliber so what I did is rebarrel my 25/06 to a 6.5/06 and absolutely love this caliber still great velocity with a heavier bullet it’s a win for me
I have to agree. The 257 Roberts would fall right in here also. IMO anything inside of 300 yards most any center-fire rifle cartridge from 243/6mm and up is more than sufficient for deer size game. Many of these are sufficient for elk and black bear also. Things don't change enough to make much difference until after 300 yards. Of course this is referring to high velocity "decent" BC bullets. But these 2 offerings have a lot to offer.
Great video! I totally agree that they are two of the most underrated cartridges! I’ve killed more deer with a .243 than anything else but I just recently upgraded to a Tikka T3 superlite in 7mm-08 and it’s a tack driver!
Always loved the 7mm08. I started my wife with 1 and we still hunt with it. Very soft shooting and weve never had problems taking deer out to 200 yards. I just picked up a 28 nosler to accompany my 7mm collection. Hoping to pick up a 7 prc as well if my wife will allow!
Killed my first buck a coues whitetail 32 years ago with a Ruger M77 chambered in .25-06. Love it and is my most accurate rifle I own. My oldest son just passed his hunters ed and bought him his first hunting rifle a Tikka T3 in .25-06. Hopefully he will continue the tradition and help keep the quarter bores alive!! We love to watch you here in Colorado!
WTW, I actually guessed it, and guessed it right before starting the video, I attribute it to the fact that I have both of them, hand load for both of them, because there not VERY popular and there is such limited available choices for them, but they are both excellent choices for everything from antelope up to and including moose & black bear (7mm-08)...
I have both of these, though factory loads were nearly impossible to find during the pandemic. 7mm-08 was the 6.5 Creedmoor before it was popular. High B.C. bullets, short action, and minimal bullet drop. .25-06 is like shooting a laser if you find the right ammo.
I bought my son a 7mm-08 for his 12th birthday. The first day of deer season he dropped a 9 point buck at 115 yards with open sights and it dropped just like your video. Him and I both like that cartridge. I've wanted a 25.06 for years but never bought one. I'm impressed with the ballistics but I have always made do with the guns I already have. Maybe I'll buy that 25.06 this year.
I think the most underrated cartridge is the 280AI. My first rifle was (and still have) a Winchester M70 in 25-06 back in the late 1970's when I was a teen. Paid for it with my own earnings from a part time job and farm work. As I wanted it for deer and antilope in the Nebraska and Dakota's area where I grew up. Also as a compromise for varmits as it would be the only high powered rifle I would have for years to come. It has been fantastic. Most of the time they drop like they have been hit with lightening. However the 280AI has a longer reach and more energy down range, also from the parent cartridge of the 30-06. As you know it was once a wildcat and now has a SAAMI spec and has factory loading and rifles. Though small in number.
I have seen a comparison of the 7mm-08 vs 6.5 Creedmoor and with similar weight bullets they were almost identical. I'm a .308 guy because I believe that it is the 2nd most versatile cartridge bedside the 30-06.
The .25-06 is popular on the West Coast of Alaska, and is what my wife shot her first Caribou with. The joke around there, is if you can't get the job done with .22 mag, then you probably can't at all.
I’ve been looking for a 7mm08 and have been to six stores and called 3 and nobody has one. Last store I was at i asked if they had one the guy said yes and handed me a 7mm Remington. I looked at it and thanked him smiling inside. About as entertaining as the time I asked for a 22 hornet and was told “we have lots of them” as they pointed to the 22lrs
I certainly agree with the 7mm-08, it’s a fantastic cartridge that should be used much more. It’s effective on moose and elk, deer , you name it. The 25-06 is decent as a deer cartridge but not enough for really big game. Some people use the 25-06 for moose and elk but I am not comfortable doing so, very little margin of error. The second cartridge I would highly recommend if it had more support is the 280 Remington or 280ai, sadly it’s more for handloaders. In my opinion it’s the cartridge that should have caught on but never did.
The 25.06 is a sweet round. However, the 270 beats it candidly in all categories due to the 130 gr CorLokt loads. They shoot flatter and carry more energy. Also thanks for the information on the 7mm-08. I hadn't really ever given it a look, nor had I known it was a derivative of the 308. Thank you for these nerdy 🤓 videos.
I’m a true lover of the 270 win in all grains 110-157 but my rifle loves 140gr the very best and it is a show stopper on elk last elk ( this year ) I took a 347” bull walking at 487 yards perfect heart lung shot he went 12 yards and done next to zero meat lost and no recoil affects later 😂 I have been hunting with this same rifle Remington 700 cdl with a 4.5-18x44 scope for nearly 30 years and have never missed a animal thank the good lord But I’m starting g to consider any of the 7mm PRC cartages and would love to have someone do a side by side comparison both mags and standard cartridges
25-06 is great I've taken many Va. whitetails 200 - 300+ yards with 100 grain core lokt was my go to round. Shot placement #1 priority, don't believe entirely on foot lbs of energy. Hand gun hunters take deer with 10mm /357 they don't have 1000 ftlbs
I use to use a rem. Model 742 in 308, but I got rid of it after it jammed. Since then, I've gone to a tikka 6.5x55 in a bull barrel & haven't looked back ( eg. With Scenar HPBT, 123gr at velocities better 2900 ft per sec.) I can, if I wish, shoot anything up to deer size out to 500 yards & haven't looked back. Yes the venerable 30-06 is nice as is the 7mm08 but mine has next to no recoil. Like the 250 3000 it makes for enjoyable shooting... P.s. I also like the balistics of the 7.82 warbird but nobody still alive knows much about that caliber since WW2.
I learned the 7.62x51/308 in the CND infantry. I have been using it for 40+ years. I reload it and the 30-06 for my father in law. Doubtful we will change anytime soon. Stay safe and vigilant.
The 7x57MM Mauser has been doing the job for years. The 7mm-08 is an equal to it so I can't understand why anyone would frown in it. It's a more modern short action cartridge.
25-06 an excellent deer sized cartridge. Sighted @ 200 yards, 6" low @ 300, 14" low @ 400. My rifle with a handloaded 100 grain Nosler Ballistic Tip. Knowing shots at antelope were going to be 200+ yards. I opted for the 100 grain.
I absolutely agree! These are great examples of underrated cartridges. I run the 7mm-08 in a Howa 1500 Mountain Alpine Rifle that I’ve tricked out with a Stocky’s NextGen Carbon Fiber Hunter stock and a Leupold VX3HD 2.5-8x36 and I also had the barrel threaded. It’s just under 7 lbs with the scope. I run a Banish 30 on it as well. I run Badlands Precision Bulldozer 2 140 gr bullets out of it at 2850 FPS. I definitely feel confident on elk with it out 500 yards or so. This is actually my primary rifle I will be using for hunting this year in my home state of MT. I had a pretty major shoulder surgery done and the doctors won’t let me shoot any guns with more than 20 ft/lbs of free recoil energy. So my 7mm-08,6 Creedmoor, and .22-250 will be my weapons of choice this next year or so. Keep up the great work!
I suggested the 7-08 to a friend I Hunted with many years ago he is one Bambi killing sob! Lol! He’s never gone back since! I’ve killed 107 deer myself but my friend has that beat by 3 times at least AND hes killed them with .300 win mag 308 and 3006 so I if no one else is very aware of the 7-08. He has the mdl 7 Remington I believe he also wanted something lighter for the mountains of Va. Myself never killed a deer with 7-08 but I’m very much a ballistics nerd and I KNEW it would work well especially out of the shorter barrel of the Rem mdl 7. ! Great vids keep em up
I sporterized a 1909 Argentine Mauser matching action and bolt. Rebarrelled for 25-06 and it is a wonderful gun. Thanks so much for breathing some life into this outstanding cartridge. Also, with the new longer, heavier bullets available for anyone that handloads, this cartridge has some remarkable numbers.
25-06 is my first centerfire rifle. I said "is" not 'was', because I still have it. My father gave it to me for Christmas when I was 14 years old. Remington 700BDL. It's reliable, accurate, shoots flat, has an effective projectile, fairly low recoil, and ammo isn't crazy expensive. It's a great farm rifle. Remington 125gr Sierra Boattail used to be my standard cartridge... but it got hard to find. I now run polymer tip Hornady (117gr?) as a GP cartridge. My absolute favorite cartidge was 80gr Winchester Super X. Can't find it anymore... but it was an absolute grenade of a varmint cartridge... routinely leaving little more than half a pelt and a big red spot of what used to be large groundhog.
I have used a 7mm-08 since before most people ever heard of it. EVERY deer I have shot with it went down and stayed down on the first shot. Of course bullet placement is critical. If you can't hit your target, it really doesn't matter what you miss with. I reload for it and get half inch or better groups @ 100yds with Barnes TTSX 140gr. I have a muzzle break on it because of bad shoulders. It recoils like a .243 but hits like a .308. Very fun to shoot. Set up the same rifle for my Daughter-in-law and grandson. They love them. Lots of venison.
great picks I'm old lol still loving the versatility of my 30-06 as a hand loader from way back I took my first deer with an 8mm mauser just bought my first ar15 and ar10 love them both my standard go to bolt gun is still my remington 721 30-06 I can load it for varmint or large game it's still my most versitile round acording to the relaoding manuals thanks bud have a great day
I have one of the first Remington 700 Sendaro, when they were introduced in the mid-90's ago, 25-06, 26" heavy barrel, Bell & Carlson stock. Currently known as Remington's varmint model. I stopped hunting years ago, but the years I hunted with it, never had to track a deer. I shot deer from 75 yrds to the longest shot 483 yrds per range finder. Every deer standing, buckled in his tracks. The deer walking when I shot, finished the stride and on the ground. Had a blast with it shooting ground hogs out to 600 yrds. I handloaded Nosler 100 gr BT ballistic tips, devastating results at all ranges! I have several popular rifle calibers, but if I started back hunting this year, I would take the 25-06 with my handloads. I load a couple hundred rounds every now and then just to take that rifle to the range. To this day, that rifle with bipod and sand sock will still shoot 5 shot ragged hole groups at 100 yrds.
My Wife uses the 7mm08 in a Savage bolt gun. I reload for it. 129 grain bullets are her favorite because it has less kick. The deer have not complained so far. I consider it a great cartridge.
I enjoy all of your videos. I too have a 25-06 that's a tack driving hot rod. Another very accurate and performing load is the 7.62x54R loading. Ballisticaly nearly a twin to the .308 Win. I have a custom built SVT -40 Tokorev semi auto in that caliber that has taken a house-full of deer. It is hard to beat a.308 but I believe that there is a whole lot to say in favor of the 7mm-o8. A very capable load for sure!
I'm 71 here in Michigan my Go to Deer cartridge simply is the 150 grain, 30-30. I have a single shot break action 30-30 with a scope on top. So far, 2 deer and a feral Male Hog, all with a single Shot. The deer were at 60 & 70 yards, the Hog, 32 yards, side of the skull. Currently, I've switched to the 357 magnum. This is 'cause I got a 357 mag revolver a couple of years ago and which I got back into Reloading for the 357. I like the idea of having a revolver and a rifle that uses the same ammo. It doesn't matter WHAT firearm or cartridge you have, It does matter, can you place your shot within an inch of your Point of Aim. If not, Get to the range and practice with your firearm and the ammo you want to use.
Have experience with both. Both are outstanding cartridges for deer. Both can be difficult to find at the local store. That’s why i went to 6.5 creedmoor. I truely hope they make a comeback in the marketplace, but I’m afraid they will go the way of the 257 Roberts.
I own several 7mm-08 because they are small enough for my small grandkids to use and big enough for me. I run 120 grain nbt and they usually never move with a half decent shot even with kids that are not perfect marksman. My wife loves hers as do I along with the kids because of the low recoil and ballistic are better than a 308 and almost identical to 6.5 creedmoor which so many love.
I agree! My brother and I talked to 70's back about 2012 he talked me into it instead of buying a 7 mm 08. I'm a fan of a short action this day I regret buying the 7 mm 08 and I have a 243 700 that I'm planning on rebarreling to a 7 mm 08. I have a problem with the twist rate that the 270 has. I reload and I know that I can reload the seven mm 08 to get what I believe will be better performance from it then to 270 cartridge without having to change the Berlin it in Order special Barrel
I agree the 7mm-08 is seriously overlooked. It’s an excellent all around cartridge that nobody uses in my area. I believe the issue with the 25-06 is that it offers no advantages over the 270 Winchester. Anything the 25-06 does the 270 does just a bit better. The only way I’d choose it over the 270 is a dedicated pronghorn cartridge.
The only argument you could make is recoil for 25-06 is a little more manageable for smaller shooters. In my opinion at least. Other than that you’re spot on!
Idk tell that to all the people that own both. Im pretty sure the 25-06 will shoot flatter. If given the choice to own only one, it would be the .270 though.
.25-06 generally flatter, faster, more accurate, and lighter recoil than .270. It's a better 6.5 creed if comparing handloads. That said, .270 has a little more punch/penetration on larger animals...
Daughter stepped up from a .243 Win to 7mm-08 Rem. I am changing my 25-06 Rem to 25-06AI w/ a faster twist to stabilize up to 131 gr bullets. Good luck and stay safe y'all!!! 😉😉😉
I've been hunting with a 25-06 for years used my grandpa and my dad's till the day I turned 18 went to Hyatt gun shop wich is pretty much probably the biggest gun shop on the East coast.and they only had one ! I was so happy got it then we went back to the farm and sighted it in and been using it ever since .bang flop dead .and then I was looking for a 257 Roberts for my daughter but couldn't find one at the time so I settled for a 7mm-08 and it's awesome I liked it so much I even got one for me .and I also love my 280 rem as well it's the middle child of the 7mm-08 and 7mm rem mag.i have a 257 wyb as well that's awesome. And a 7mm rem mag and a 300 rem mag .but I always find my self 95 percent of the time using my 25-06 .if I don't then I'm using the 7mm-08 or 280
Ever since the 7-08 cartridge was released in a Remington 788 I have loved that cartridge specifically for whitetail, they released it in two cartridges a 120 grain and a 140 grain my Rem 788 loved the 120 grain shooting less then 1/2” groups, I felt like this was plenty out to 300-400 yds
I regularly hunt with the 7mm-08 I have a number of rifles in that chambering, but my favorite is a 18" barreled Tikka T3 in a Stocky's NextGen Ultra Carbon Hunter Composite Accublock Stock with a Leupold 2.5-8X36 scope and using 150gr. Norma White Tail ammo.
My first centerfire rifle is a Rem 700BDL in 25-06. I "bought" new it in 1975, was in my dad's name because I was 15, but paid for it with paper route money. Remington made 87, 100, and 120 grain loads for it then. Never tried the 100s, but the 87 and 120 grainers covered everything anyway, was disappointed when they quit making the 87s. I reloaded for it using 120 Hornady HP and Speer 87 gr spire points, then set my equipment aside when I got married. Shot a lot, A LOT, of things (mostly inanimate) over the years but never a deer until last year using PPU 100gr. Neck shot a spike and he bowled over like your 7-08 deer did. Am thinking of having it rebarreled, going to try the underrated grandaddy 7x57 for that, so I bought a Savage 110 Storm in 25-06 as replacement. It shoots great. Many cartridges are underrated. So many are great utility cartridges, like 308 Win and 30-06. Anyone who is happy with what they are shooting should be encouraged to continue to support their favorite. Just and FYI, Hornady made(makes?) Lite loadings for 30-06, 308, and 7-08 so your young'uns could use them with less trepidation. Looking forward to more "deer catching" on your channel.
Excellent video Brother. Like you, I am happy with strange cartridges, like the 350 LGD, 6.5 Grendel, and the 7.62x39. That said, because of prices and availability, I would go with the 7.62x51 NATO/.308 Win. Remington has always been an awesome company and I applaud you for going with them. My all star bolt action fave is the Remington 700 short action. If I could only have one, this is it!
![This New Rifle Will Kill the Ruger American...[Savage 110 Trail Hunter]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/h3UMz6Afjq0/mqdefault.jpg)
I think it’s the .257 Roberts or the 6.5x55mm Swedish Mauser. These cartridges have historically been overshadowed by more popular choices, but they offer impressive ballistics and performance for deer hunting.
Try and buy 257 Bob ammunition? The Swede I agree as own 2 both in modern rifles and super accurate Ammunition is widely available in the big box stores and online Domestic and European loadings. It’s not the size of the hammer but where it smacks 7mm-08 I agree as own 3 of them great on hogs and deer and been using it for many years
7mm08 is a sweet little round for sure. I remember when it was somewhat popular. Same for the 25-06 as well. Strange how some things stick around while others fade away. How long did the .260 stick around? Anyone remember the 8mm Magnum? Now you have me wanting a 7-08 😢
I love my .257 Robert's. Will blow slap through a Caribou 👍
Agree ,,, another to add ,,,, 280 rem
Agreed! The only knock against them is hunting ammo availability.
Another great caliber that never took off the way it should have is the .280 Remington.
I've been shooting a Browning A-Bolt in 280 Remington since the mid 80's. I love it.
@@doylethorn9251 yes I have an older model 70 in .280 that's great too.
Remington killed the 280 Rem themselves. I love mine!
@@brentbusick2245it's a shame too. It gave you the best of both worlds between the .270 and 06. It could mirror .270 performance and outperform the 30-06 up to 165 grain with the more efficient 7mm bullet.
I also have a Browning Abolt II in 280 rem. Great cartridge
I've been using the 25-06 for 37 years, I have taken everything from large bull elk to ground squirrels with this cartridge and have had nothing but superior results. It's an accurate cartridge, mild recoil and performs at a higher level than you would ever expect, this is a cartridge everyone should have!
Yep! It's on my to buy list!!!
Whats a low recoil ammo for the 25/06
Any 100grain cartridge
270 Winchester is a good round too. If you zero a 130 grain interlock at 27 yards it hits 3" high at 150 Yards and 3" Low at 300 yards and still carries 1,654 ft lbs of energy at 300 yards. The most ethical hunting for the average Joe is probably 300 yards or less IMO.
I agree 270 win is awesome I have taken every animal in North America with this cartridge musk ox moose elk all the deer all the goats and sheep and all three bear. Wolves and cats as well. Big game my rifle loves the 140 gr sierra and nozzlers
My first new store bought rifle was a Weatherby Vanguard in 25-06. I was hunting Pennsylvania and the 25-06 was the hammer for those long shots on gas/power line easements. I sold it when I was drafted in 1969. About a year ago a good friend of mine won a Weatherby Vanguard, 25-06. Living in Ohio, he had no use for it. I was at his house one day and saw it. LOVE!! I asked if he was up for a trade and traded him a Bushmaster AR-15 for it. I now can ,once again, shoot from one zip code to another.
The 7-08 and 25-06 are two great choices for the category. I have both and I'll never be without a 7mm 08 again.
7mm-08 has got to be my favorite and the best all-around cartridge. Especially if you are a reloader. More bullet weight options than 6.5cr which gives it the ability to take small game to Elk with no problem. Better barrel life and still shoots fast/flat and soft for new or small shooters. I love it.
7mm-08 is my favorite rifle cartridge. I’ve killed everything from prairie dogs to elk with mine so far.
I used mine for wood chucks too, but after I shot one and it made a path, it made me nervous about ricochet.
I’ve killed prairie dogs and elk with my .50 bmg. Love it
7mm-08 is my primary hunting cartridge. I love that gun. I've got a ton of other guns in similar cartridges - .257 Roberts, 6.5x55, 6.5 Creed, .243 Win, - and some bigger stuff (.270, .308, .30-06), but 7mm-08 has always felt just "right" for me. Recoil of a .30-30 with the range of a .30-06.
Another one is the 260 Remington. It's a great cartridge that's extremely accurate and a great deer cartridge.
My favorite “forgotten round” is the 7x57!
From O’Conner’s pronghorns to Bell’s elephants, the 7x57 Mauser has unbelievable versatility and the documented history to back it up!
I shoot one on a Mauser action. Not the old barrel but a 275 Rigby same as 7x57 except for the angle of the taper on the shoulder. It's a tac driver 145 grn and hardly any recoil
@@markthornhill519 Jim Corbett killed several man-eating tigers with the .275 Rigby back in the day!
WTW, I am 72 years old and thoroughly enjoy your TH-cam inputs. Thank you. I wanted to comment on the really random idea of needing a 1000 ft pounds of energy to kill a deer. My first question to the proponents of this idea is, "If a 1000 ftlbs is needed, how do you explain all of the deer taken with pistols?" My second question is, " If a 1000 ftlbs is needed, how do poachers constantly kill deer, and other animals, with rimfire (22 LR and 22 WMR) cartridges?" Just wondering... Thanks again and keep up the good work!!!
@@markthornhill519
They are the same cartridge. There is no difference in shoulder angle, only the name.
1000 FPE is fiction written to sell magazines a half century ago.
A fissure kills. Create that fissure with your tool of choice.
The 270 win was my primary hunting rifle for 20 years although I have always had a 7mm-08. Now things have changed. I bought a tikka t3x lite 7mm-08 with hornady 139gr cx superformance ammo. It's so good I bought another. My family and I used them last year to take deer from 50 yds to 300 yds and only had to track one deer about 75 yds. This will be my go to combo for rifle, caliber, and ammo for the rest of my life. No matter the caliber I keep my shots within 300yds anyway so it's perfect for me.
I was a 30/06 or nothing guy my whole life until my kids got of hunting age. I didn't like the idea of a .243 win. because I liked the ability to use a heavier bullet if needed. After some research, I found the 7mm-08 to be perfect. I would download some 120gr to get them hunting at 5 and 6 years old. Then, as they grew, I'd work the load up to a full power 140gr load.
Well, after their 2nd year, they were shooting full power 120gr loads at a shade over 3000 fps. I watched as they dropped deer after deer, on the spot with just as much authority (if not more) as my beloved 180gr load in my ol' '06. I just couldn't believe it.
A few years later, they were shooting full power 140 and 150gr loads, 2 guns liked 2 different loads. After years of watching the effectiveness of the '08, I wanted to see if I'd have the same success as they have had. So, I took it out with me on a hunt. To my absolute surprise, bang, flop. The lighter and shorter rifle was easier to pack around here in the woods and hills of Appalachia, easier to maneuver in the stand and killed just as well as my larger guns.
All in all, I'm sold on the "little" 7mm-08. With its power and accuracy, I wouldn't be afraid to use it on any North American game. This includes bear. Of course, I'd want a monolithic bullet for that application, but I have no doubt it would have enough penetration and energy to do the job...... Shot placement would definitely be key there😂
You are absolutely correct. I’ve seen several bears fell to the 7mm08. Same for elk. It punches wayyyyyyy above its weight class!!
I still like the 243 100 grain for deer any one else this caliber
Bullet construction is the least talked about , and most essential requirements.
@elmercooper5382 I would be more apt to use a .243 in fields than where we hunt mostly. If I had to guess, 90% of our shots are inside of 50 yards. I've seen a few deer hit with 100gr cup and core bullets at that distance out of a .243. A few exited, a few didn't. I also saw a 200lb field dressed buck that was shot quartering to by my cousin. It was a 30ish yard shot, straight through the shoulder with a 100gr Hornaday Innerlock. The only thing left of the bullets was the base with a streak of lead in the middle. It was recovered inside the heart.
The .243 is a fine deer cartridge. If it has some time to slow down, or if you can take a near broadside shot. With close range shots at various angles, I personally want a bit more weight than the .243 offers.
@markanderson1009 Facts!! I used a 180gr RN pro hunter in my '06. Our shots are close here, and that 180 is a thumper. I pretty much just use cup and core soft point bullets here because accuracy isn't really necessary when shooting a high power rifle inside of 50 or 60 yards. The exception to that is the 120gr ballistic tip in the 7mm-08. That little bullet is tough. I've recovered the jacket after going through a shoulder and loosing it's core. The recovered jacket weighed 63 grains... over 50% of the bullets mass is in the jacket, basically a 60 something grain monolithic bullet with the shock and energy dump of a cup and core. Pretty devastating design. It just deflects too easily in the woods. The 120gr TTSX is another killer design. I just don't see the need for a premium bullet on whitetail.
7-08 in BLR. I was a steadfast 308 until a few accidents slowed me down. BUT the good Lord gave me a second (3 & 4) chances. Purchased a Browning BLR (lever) in 708. Love it, love it,love it!
I lived out west for almost 10 years (Montana). Everybody I knew who shot a .25-06 swore by it. It took a lot of elk. I've been thinking about trying it, you might have just convinced me.
Great video , it's hard to believe some people haven't heard of 7mm-08 or the 25-06 . Both are considered flat shooters . 7mm-08 is considered light recoil cartridge . Great for beginners . Just like the 243 is .
7 mm -08 is very good round. I have always wanted one. Settle for the 308. Big reasons why I didn’t was not much ammo around my area. Thanks for the info and video.
Another great choice is the old 7x57mm Mauser round. Cartridges are fairly easy to find. One of my sll time favorites. Jack O'Connor wife was a big fan as was Jack. With proper handloading in a modern firearm it surpasses 7mm-08. I'm not knocking the 7mm-08 at all.
25-06 used to be extremely popular. My old neighbor still hunts with it. 7-08 is very popular where I am especially with ladies and youth. Both fantastic rounds. I currently hunt with 308 but will be getting a 6.5prc and putting it in an mdt hnt 26 for a nice lightweight, flat shooting rifle
Love the ole 25-06!
Great round. And you don't need no 120 g bullet either. 100g is plenty out to 200 (or 250 ) with no recoil .
I watched a guy drop a 320 bull elk with his 25-06 and Nosler ballistic tip ammo at 80 yards. I've not seen many elk drop where they stood but this bull did. I contemplated 7-08 for 20 years but never pulled the trigger so to speak. Instead I went 7RemMag, 280 Rem. I've favored long action most all my shooting life. I do have a sweet Brux 4 groove 7mm barrel #3 contour to build a 7-08 though. Still, I put that on the back burner and I'm working on a 280AI. Just can't get away from long actions since I already have two 308s and 2 more on the way
Good choices and cool hunting footage. 25-06 is a beast
Love them both. Used a 2506 for many years. Was my go to antelope, deer and elk round. Sold it and now wish I had it back.
7mm-08 has been my favorite round for many years.
I'd love to see the 270 win added to the chart for comparison. Great video like always!
I have been taking Whitetail Deer here in Georgia since 1980 with a Ruger M77 25/06. Furthermost shot taken so far is 275 yards on 2 does out of same stand 1 right after the other. Both 1 shot kills. never lost a deer with it. Used to get joked at by my brother who hunted with a .270 about using a pellet rifle. Now he owns a 25/06 because he saw the light.
My daughter hunts with the 7mm-08. She has a Remington R25 and a Bergara chambered in it.
One very impressive round. Her R25 will put 4 in the same hole at 200 yds with horandy 150 PH. Have yet to have a deer get away from the 7mm-08.
I have both. The 25.06 is WAY under rated! Hits like lightening.
Love that 25-06! The 7mm 08 shoots great, too.
I used the 117gr. Sierra HPBT for everything from groundhogs up.
First hunting gun you should have is the 30-30... has taken more deer in north america... i got my first one at 11 y/o. Gun was 100 y/o when i got it in the 90's, both my daughters shot first deers with same gun.
In my circle those are two of the most common cartridges used. We discovered them many years ago. The 25-06 is just a flat shooting deer slayer. All the power needed and fairly mild recoil. Winchester ammo with the 120 grain PEP was the choice. The 7mm-08 is basically like having a 270 Winchester in a smaller package. We always picked a nice lightweight rifle that was a pleasure to carry and short enough to maneuver in a tree stand easily. Another of my favorites is my Ruger 77 compact in 260 Rem. But then I have many favorites that are not always mainstream.
I Literally bought a 7mm08 Weatherby Vanguard yesterday. Definitely underrated.
Awesome!
Got my 7mm-08 ruger american last year after my 30-06 had issues grouping. Lack of factory ammo availability at the time got me into reloading. Love it!
Well, I agree with you. The 7-08 is a terrific cartridge, but it's not getting any press.
The 25/06 has been a favorite of mine since I was skinny and had hair. I've killed a lot of game with the cartridge. I gotta be honest and say that I have been using the 257 Weatherby more because I have it in a Blaser (took a nice leopard with it in Namibia). It's a favorite travel rifle.
It has lately. It's actually has picked up quite a bit. Last year was the 9th most popular cartridge and as of now at #7. So happy to see it!
The 25-06 is a magnum in every aspect except for not having the magnum name. I've seen it take whitetails at 400 yards with ease. I wish I still owned one.
270 is my favorite deer cartridge. Hard hitting flat shooting. Never had to chase a deer more then 10 yards. I like your picks though, ive always liked that 7mm 08 cause i can just make it out of some 308 brass lying around. Excellent choice
7mm-08 is probably my favorite centerfire rifle cartridge period. I say 'probably' because I'm really starting to like my 6mm Creedmoor. Back in the day, I used to cull coyotes with a pro friend and tried several different rifles. Mostly using 223, a 243 and a 270 but shot quite a few with the 7mm-08 I had at the time. Didn't love it because I wasn't in love with the rifle. I just like the 243 and 270 rifles more. Now my favorite rifles are my 6mm and the 7mm-08. I did have a 25-06 but it was a really nice rifle and only ended up taking it out once. Killed them plenty dead. We aren't talking extreme ranges here. The furthest I remember shooting one with the 25-06 was about 170 yards. These were 75 Gr VMax. Never took a deer with that rifle. In 7mm-08, I don't remember ever using a lighter bullet than 120. In 270, I used VMax and Speer HPs but most often used either that 130 Gr Core Lokts since they were cheap or two different reloads... cheap HPs. I do really like the 25-06 but I just feel I would almost always opt for a 270 rather than a 25-06. If deciding between the two. Kind of how I'd lean towards a 243 or 6 Creed or 6.5 Creed over a 22-250. All fun cartridges, but I think I just tend to lean towards something slightly heavier, esp if we are talking about very established cartridges.
7mm08 is popular here in New Zealand. Couple of years ago box of 20 was NZ$50-70. Now over $100. I reload now, but still have some factory. Great cartridge and recoil is less than 308 I find. Especially suppressed!
I have a 25-06 a 7mm-08 as well as a 308 and 30-06. I love all 4 of the cartridges and have killed deer with all of them except the 25-06. I am hoping to draw an antelope tag one day and the 25-06 may very well get a mark in the next couple years. As some already mentioned the .257 Roberts may be another underrated cartridge.
I couldn't agree more on these underrated cartridges . I bought my daughter a 7mm08 and it is fantastic. I am in the market for a 25-06 as I am a huge 30-06 fan.
I was just talking about the 7mm-08 at work today! The 7X57 is one to look at as well.
I loved my old 6.5 x 55 swedish mouser I bought at woolworth's for $65 and sporterized it for $200 beans. That sucker slammed em to the ground. I do like the .308 simply because my shots aren't that far and I can always get ammo. My 6mm is getting harder to even reload for and expensive. They changed the 6mm like 3 times before they landed the 6mm as its final cartridge. Worries me about all these new popular calibers that down the road they wont be able to find ammo at a reasonable price.
I think the 280 remington is an outstanding cartridge but never had the privilege to own one. Thinking about a rebarrel on one of my 30-06's to the old 280 remington
If you get a 280 get the Akley improved, it’s got a little better performance, has improved case life for reloading and is one of the only older cartridges that has become more popular and likely more available in factory ammo!
Love the seven mm08 taken two of my best racks with one never personally owned a 25 ought 6 but used to hunt with a 257 Roberts super accurate every deer would drop like a lightning bolt longest shot with it was 275 yards and hit the ground so fast I thought I missed him
So my first gun was a 25/06 and it was great I packed that gun for many years I started reading some reloading books and became obsessed with the 6.5 caliber so what I did is rebarrel my 25/06 to a 6.5/06 and absolutely love this caliber still great velocity with a heavier bullet it’s a win for me
I have them both. They are two of my favorites by far. Very underated!
I have to agree. The 257 Roberts would fall right in here also. IMO anything inside of 300 yards most any center-fire rifle cartridge from 243/6mm and up is more than sufficient for deer size game. Many of these are sufficient for elk and black bear also. Things don't change enough to make much difference until after 300 yards. Of course this is referring to high velocity "decent" BC bullets. But these 2 offerings have a lot to offer.
Great video! I totally agree that they are two of the most underrated cartridges! I’ve killed more deer with a .243 than anything else but I just recently upgraded to a Tikka T3 superlite in 7mm-08 and it’s a tack driver!
Awesome. Thanks for watching!
Always loved the 7mm08. I started my wife with 1 and we still hunt with it. Very soft shooting and weve never had problems taking deer out to 200 yards. I just picked up a 28 nosler to accompany my 7mm collection. Hoping to pick up a 7 prc as well if my wife will allow!
If you like 7MM's , check out the 7MM Dakota! less powder than the Nosler for basically the same result.
So happy I came across your channel…great video!
Appreciate you watching!
Killed my first buck a coues whitetail 32 years ago with a Ruger M77 chambered in .25-06. Love it and is my most accurate rifle I own. My oldest son just passed his hunters ed and bought him his first hunting rifle a Tikka T3 in .25-06. Hopefully he will continue the tradition and help keep the quarter bores alive!! We love to watch you here in Colorado!
Appreciate you watching! I love Colorado. I hope to get to hunt there again sometime
WTW, I actually guessed it, and guessed it right before starting the video, I attribute it to the fact that I have both of them, hand load for both of them, because there not VERY popular and there is such limited available choices for them, but they are both excellent choices for everything from antelope up to and including moose & black bear (7mm-08)...
Awesome
I have both of these, though factory loads were nearly impossible to find during the pandemic. 7mm-08 was the 6.5 Creedmoor before it was popular. High B.C. bullets, short action, and minimal bullet drop. .25-06 is like shooting a laser if you find the right ammo.
I bought my son a 7mm-08 for his 12th birthday. The first day of deer season he dropped a 9 point buck at 115 yards with open sights and it dropped just like your video. Him and I both like that cartridge.
I've wanted a 25.06 for years but never bought one. I'm impressed with the ballistics but I have always made do with the guns I already have. Maybe I'll buy that 25.06 this year.
I think the most underrated cartridge is the 280AI. My first rifle was (and still have) a Winchester M70 in 25-06 back in the late 1970's when I was a teen. Paid for it with my own earnings from a part time job and farm work. As I wanted it for deer and antilope in the Nebraska and Dakota's area where I grew up. Also as a compromise for varmits as it would be the only high powered rifle I would have for years to come. It has been fantastic. Most of the time they drop like they have been hit with lightening. However the 280AI has a longer reach and more energy down range, also from the parent cartridge of the 30-06.
As you know it was once a wildcat and now has a SAAMI spec and has factory loading and rifles. Though small in number.
I have seen a comparison of the 7mm-08 vs 6.5 Creedmoor and with similar weight bullets they were almost identical. I'm a .308 guy because I believe that it is the 2nd most versatile cartridge bedside the 30-06.
The .25-06 is popular on the West Coast of Alaska, and is what my wife shot her first Caribou with. The joke around there, is if you can't get the job done with .22 mag, then you probably can't at all.
I’ve been looking for a 7mm08 and have been to six stores and called 3 and nobody has one. Last store I was at i asked if they had one the guy said yes and handed me a 7mm Remington. I looked at it and thanked him smiling inside. About as entertaining as the time I asked for a 22 hornet and was told “we have lots of them” as they pointed to the 22lrs
I certainly agree with the 7mm-08, it’s a fantastic cartridge that should be used much more. It’s effective on moose and elk, deer , you name it. The 25-06 is decent as a deer cartridge but not enough for really big game. Some people use the 25-06 for moose and elk but I am not comfortable doing so, very little margin of error.
The second cartridge I would highly recommend if it had more support is the 280 Remington or 280ai, sadly it’s more for handloaders. In my opinion it’s the cartridge that should have caught on but never did.
The 25.06 is a sweet round. However, the 270 beats it candidly in all categories due to the 130 gr CorLokt loads. They shoot flatter and carry more energy. Also thanks for the information on the 7mm-08. I hadn't really ever given it a look, nor had I known it was a derivative of the 308. Thank you for these nerdy 🤓 videos.
I’m a true lover of the 270 win in all grains 110-157 but my rifle loves 140gr the very best and it is a show stopper on elk last elk ( this year ) I took a 347” bull walking at 487 yards perfect heart lung shot he went 12 yards and done next to zero meat lost and no recoil affects later 😂 I have been hunting with this same rifle Remington 700 cdl with a 4.5-18x44 scope for nearly 30 years and have never missed a animal thank the good lord But I’m starting g to consider any of the 7mm PRC cartages and would love to have someone do a side by side comparison both mags and standard cartridges
25-06 is great I've taken many Va. whitetails 200 - 300+ yards with 100 grain core lokt was my go to round. Shot placement #1 priority, don't believe entirely on foot lbs of energy. Hand gun hunters take deer with 10mm /357 they don't have 1000 ftlbs
I use to use a rem. Model 742 in 308, but I got rid of it after it jammed.
Since then, I've gone to a tikka 6.5x55 in a bull barrel & haven't looked back ( eg. With Scenar HPBT, 123gr at velocities better 2900 ft per sec.)
I can, if I wish, shoot anything up to deer size out to 500 yards & haven't looked back.
Yes the venerable 30-06 is nice as is the 7mm08 but mine has next to no recoil.
Like the 250 3000 it makes for enjoyable shooting...
P.s. I also like the balistics of the 7.82 warbird but nobody still alive knows much about that caliber since WW2.
I love my 25-06, it has been my go to round for more than 25 years with great results. I would like to add the 260 Remington to the under rated list.
I'll stay with my 3006 you can load down and up very versatile cartridge.👍
I learned the 7.62x51/308 in the CND infantry. I have been using it for 40+ years. I reload it and the 30-06 for my father in law. Doubtful we will change anytime soon. Stay safe and vigilant.
The 7x57MM Mauser has been doing the job for years. The 7mm-08 is an equal to it so I can't understand why anyone would frown in it. It's a more modern short action cartridge.
I have hunted for years with 6.5x55mm Swede for years... Have taken plenty of White Tail & Mule Deer keeping a freezer and all my kids bellies full.
25-06 an excellent deer sized cartridge. Sighted @ 200 yards, 6" low @ 300, 14" low @ 400. My rifle with a handloaded 100 grain Nosler Ballistic Tip. Knowing shots at antelope were going to be 200+ yards. I opted for the 100 grain.
I absolutely agree! These are great examples of underrated cartridges.
I run the 7mm-08 in a Howa 1500 Mountain Alpine Rifle that I’ve tricked out with a Stocky’s NextGen Carbon Fiber Hunter stock and a Leupold VX3HD 2.5-8x36 and I also had the barrel threaded. It’s just under 7 lbs with the scope. I run a Banish 30 on it as well.
I run Badlands Precision Bulldozer 2 140 gr bullets out of it at 2850 FPS. I definitely feel confident on elk with it out 500 yards or so.
This is actually my primary rifle I will be using for hunting this year in my home state of MT. I had a pretty major shoulder surgery done and the doctors won’t let me shoot any guns with more than 20 ft/lbs of free recoil energy. So my 7mm-08,6 Creedmoor, and .22-250 will be my weapons of choice this next year or so.
Keep up the great work!
I suggested the 7-08 to a friend I Hunted with many years ago he is one Bambi killing sob! Lol! He’s never gone back since! I’ve killed 107 deer myself but my friend has that beat by 3 times at least AND hes killed them with .300 win mag 308 and 3006 so I if no one else is very aware of the 7-08. He has the mdl 7 Remington I believe he also wanted something lighter for the mountains of Va. Myself never killed a deer with 7-08 but I’m very much a ballistics nerd and I KNEW it would work well especially out of the shorter barrel of the Rem mdl 7. !
Great vids keep em up
Depends on preference! What you’re use to shooting! What you grew up with! Avail ability is big reason also! Good information
I sporterized a 1909 Argentine Mauser matching action and bolt. Rebarrelled for 25-06 and it is a wonderful gun. Thanks so much for breathing some life into this outstanding cartridge. Also, with the new longer, heavier bullets available for anyone that handloads, this cartridge has some remarkable numbers.
Both fantastic rounds that are still very popular in Australia!
I have 3 7mm-08s!!!! Love em. Been hunting with 7mm-08 since 1996.
I must just be old or something. I still use the 7x57. Handloaded for sure just a step up from the 7mm-08
I’m guessing 6.5 Grendel and the 7.62x39.
25-06 is my first centerfire rifle. I said "is" not 'was', because I still have it. My father gave it to me for Christmas when I was 14 years old. Remington 700BDL. It's reliable, accurate, shoots flat, has an effective projectile, fairly low recoil, and ammo isn't crazy expensive. It's a great farm rifle. Remington 125gr Sierra Boattail used to be my standard cartridge... but it got hard to find. I now run polymer tip Hornady (117gr?) as a GP cartridge. My absolute favorite cartidge was 80gr Winchester Super X. Can't find it anymore... but it was an absolute grenade of a varmint cartridge... routinely leaving little more than half a pelt and a big red spot of what used to be large groundhog.
.25-06 was very popular in Texas.
I used that little cartridge for years.
Thanks for the review.
I have used a 7mm-08 since before most people ever heard of it. EVERY deer I have shot with it went down and stayed down on the first shot. Of course bullet placement is critical. If you can't hit your target, it really doesn't matter what you miss with. I reload for it and get half inch or better groups @ 100yds with Barnes TTSX 140gr. I have a muzzle break on it because of bad shoulders. It recoils like a .243 but hits like a .308. Very fun to shoot. Set up the same rifle for my Daughter-in-law and grandson. They love them. Lots of venison.
I've got both calibers and absolutely love them great choices thanks for posting
great picks I'm old lol still loving the versatility of my 30-06 as a hand loader from way back I took my first deer with an 8mm mauser just bought my first ar15 and ar10 love them both my standard go to bolt gun is still my remington 721 30-06 I can load it for varmint or large game it's still my most versitile round acording to the relaoding manuals thanks bud have a great day
I have one of the first Remington 700 Sendaro, when they were introduced in the mid-90's ago, 25-06, 26" heavy barrel, Bell & Carlson stock. Currently known as Remington's varmint model.
I stopped hunting years ago, but the years I hunted with it, never had to track a deer. I shot deer from 75 yrds to the longest shot 483 yrds per range finder. Every deer standing, buckled in his tracks. The deer walking when I shot, finished the stride and on the ground. Had a blast with it shooting ground hogs out to 600 yrds. I handloaded Nosler 100 gr BT ballistic tips, devastating results at all ranges! I have several popular rifle calibers, but if I started back hunting this year, I would take the 25-06 with my handloads. I load a couple hundred rounds every now and then just to take that rifle to the range. To this day, that rifle with bipod and sand sock will still shoot 5 shot ragged hole groups at 100 yrds.
My Wife uses the 7mm08 in a Savage bolt gun. I reload for it. 129 grain bullets are her favorite because it has less kick. The deer have not complained so far. I consider it a great cartridge.
I enjoy all of your videos. I too have a 25-06 that's a tack driving hot rod. Another very accurate and performing load is the 7.62x54R loading. Ballisticaly nearly a twin to the .308 Win. I have a custom built SVT -40 Tokorev semi auto in that caliber that has taken a house-full of deer. It is hard to beat a.308 but I believe that there is a whole lot to say in favor of the 7mm-o8. A very capable load for sure!
I'm 71 here in Michigan my Go to Deer cartridge simply is the 150 grain, 30-30. I have a single shot break action 30-30 with a scope on top. So far, 2 deer and a feral Male Hog, all with a single Shot. The deer were at 60 & 70 yards, the Hog, 32 yards, side of the skull.
Currently, I've switched to the 357 magnum. This is 'cause I got a 357 mag revolver a couple of years ago and which I got back into Reloading for the 357. I like the idea of having a revolver and a rifle that uses the same ammo.
It doesn't matter WHAT firearm or cartridge you have, It does matter, can you place your shot within an inch of your Point of Aim. If not, Get to the range and practice with your firearm and the ammo you want to use.
Where are hogs at in michigan? I haven't seen any sign between muskegon-Ludington and big rapids- grand rapids or anywhere in between
I agree on7mm but I think a 6.5x55 Swedish Mauser is equally as good….a favourite by many competition shooters.
Have experience with both. Both are outstanding cartridges for deer. Both can be difficult to find at the local store. That’s why i went to 6.5 creedmoor. I truely hope they make a comeback in the marketplace, but I’m afraid they will go the way of the 257 Roberts.
The 7mm-08 at 400 yds does it all for all the deer species.
I own several 7mm-08 because they are small enough for my small grandkids to use and big enough for me. I run 120 grain nbt and they usually never move with a half decent shot even with kids that are not perfect marksman. My wife loves hers as do I along with the kids because of the low recoil and ballistic are better than a 308 and almost identical to 6.5 creedmoor which so many love.
I agree! My brother and I talked to 70's back about 2012 he talked me into it instead of buying a 7 mm 08. I'm a fan of a short action this day I regret buying the 7 mm 08 and I have a 243 700 that I'm planning on rebarreling to a 7 mm 08. I have a problem with the twist rate that the 270 has. I reload and I know that I can reload the seven mm 08 to get what I believe will be better performance from it then to 270 cartridge without having to change the Berlin it in Order special Barrel
I own each of the calibers in this video, I love them both! BUT my go to for western big game is the .280 Remington.
This is great! With the exception of my Remington Model 742 in 30.06, the only other deer rifles I have are in these calibers.
I agree the 7mm-08 is seriously overlooked. It’s an excellent all around cartridge that nobody uses in my area. I believe the issue with the 25-06 is that it offers no advantages over the 270 Winchester. Anything the 25-06 does the 270 does just a bit better. The only way I’d choose it over the 270 is a dedicated pronghorn cartridge.
Reloading can make it a different story when it comes to accuracy and speed.
@@SilverBullet22250true but you can load up the .270 as well.
The only argument you could make is recoil for 25-06 is a little more manageable for smaller shooters. In my opinion at least. Other than that you’re spot on!
Idk tell that to all the people that own both. Im pretty sure the 25-06 will shoot flatter. If given the choice to own only one, it would be the .270 though.
.25-06 generally flatter, faster, more accurate, and lighter recoil than .270. It's a better 6.5 creed if comparing handloads. That said, .270 has a little more punch/penetration on larger animals...
That's why I like you. You know what all those cartridges do. Mainly by experience but you can also prove it. Keep doing what you're doing.
Daughter stepped up from a .243 Win to 7mm-08 Rem. I am changing my 25-06 Rem to 25-06AI w/ a faster twist to stabilize up to 131 gr bullets. Good luck and stay safe y'all!!! 😉😉😉
I've been hunting with a 25-06 for years used my grandpa and my dad's till the day I turned 18 went to Hyatt gun shop wich is pretty much probably the biggest gun shop on the East coast.and they only had one ! I was so happy got it then we went back to the farm and sighted it in and been using it ever since .bang flop dead .and then I was looking for a 257 Roberts for my daughter but couldn't find one at the time so I settled for a 7mm-08 and it's awesome I liked it so much I even got one for me .and I also love my 280 rem as well it's the middle child of the 7mm-08 and 7mm rem mag.i have a 257 wyb as well that's awesome. And a 7mm rem mag and a 300 rem mag .but I always find my self 95 percent of the time using my 25-06 .if I don't then I'm using the 7mm-08 or 280
Ever since the 7-08 cartridge was released in a Remington 788 I have loved that cartridge specifically for whitetail, they released it in two cartridges a 120 grain and a 140 grain my Rem 788 loved the 120 grain shooting less then 1/2” groups, I felt like this was plenty out to 300-400 yds
I regularly hunt with the 7mm-08 I have a number of rifles in that chambering, but my favorite is a 18" barreled Tikka T3 in a Stocky's NextGen Ultra Carbon Hunter Composite Accublock Stock with a Leupold 2.5-8X36 scope and using 150gr. Norma White Tail ammo.
My first centerfire rifle is a Rem 700BDL in 25-06. I "bought" new it in 1975, was in my dad's name because I was 15, but paid for it with paper route money. Remington made 87, 100, and 120 grain loads for it then. Never tried the 100s, but the 87 and 120 grainers covered everything anyway, was disappointed when they quit making the 87s. I reloaded for it using 120 Hornady HP and Speer 87 gr spire points, then set my equipment aside when I got married. Shot a lot, A LOT, of things (mostly inanimate) over the years but never a deer until last year using PPU 100gr. Neck shot a spike and he bowled over like your 7-08 deer did. Am thinking of having it rebarreled, going to try the underrated grandaddy 7x57 for that, so I bought a Savage 110 Storm in 25-06 as replacement. It shoots great.
Many cartridges are underrated. So many are great utility cartridges, like 308 Win and 30-06. Anyone who is happy with what they are shooting should be encouraged to continue to support their favorite.
Just and FYI, Hornady made(makes?) Lite loadings for 30-06, 308, and 7-08 so your young'uns could use them with less trepidation.
Looking forward to more "deer catching" on your channel.
More deer catching soon
Good stuff man! I don't have any experience with the 25-06, but I do have a 7mm-08 and not ashamed to say I like it
Between you and Ron Spoomer these informative videos give a lot of good insight. Keep on keepin' on!
Appreciate you watching
Excellent video Brother. Like you, I am happy with strange cartridges, like the 350 LGD, 6.5 Grendel, and the 7.62x39. That said, because of prices and availability, I would go with the 7.62x51 NATO/.308 Win. Remington has always been an awesome company and I applaud you for going with them. My all star bolt action fave is the Remington 700 short action. If I could only have one, this is it!