Ronin wrote:I used to have the same predicament.
I wanted a "do all" rifle.
I used to use 6.5x284 for both target comps and deer stalking.
I had (have) several other rifles in various calibres - 22-205 AI, 25-06, 284, 308, 338 etc etc etc
Anyway, now on my third barrel with the 6.5x284....
No longer gets used for target.
However, its my "go to" rifle for stalking.
Using 130 TSX, it levels anything with minimal damage.
I shoot alot of reds, well alot in my eyes (25 - 30 annually), several roe and numerous fallow.
Its the best (in my view) all round calibre there is, excellent accuracy, easy recoil and minimal damage with my chosen bullet.
Ok, not cheap to run, but when the return is 100% the value of each bullet, who cares....
Ask the same question of 100 stalkers and you'll get 100 different replies.
You may also consider 6.5x47 and 308
I have those too, they also work very well.....
Shot placement is what counts, the deer doent know the difference.
Ronin..
They do expand quite well. This is a 6.5mm 130grn TSXUsing 130 TSX, it levels anything with minimal damage.
Jenks