.25-06 is this a one rifle type calibre

**Malcolm B** · 02-08-2014, 20:16

I'm looking to buy my first hunting rifle. I have been around firearms for years as most but have decided been able to hunt is something men these days need in their lives. As always most people cant make their mind up about calibre this case is no different.

question: .25-06 is it a good rounded calibre for things smaller and equal to gemsbok ,what is ammo availability like and what are some other calibre suggestions?

Reasons for my idea here was relatively decent bullet options, flat shooter.

Please se share you thoughts.....why not just go .308?

any help would be greatly appreciated

**driepootx** · 02-08-2014, 20:24

Pick a standard calibre in 6,5 to 7,62 (.30) to hunt almost any sized antelope up to eland. This then includes 7x57, 7-08 and 7x64. The 25-06 is not a bad calibre but can use only bullet weights up to 120gr. Bullets from 140gr up to 220gr have more killing ability. Dont look at a magnum at this stage. Add that later on in your hunting career if you want a long range rifle.

**shark_za** · 02-08-2014, 20:29

The .25-06 is a great plains hunting caliber but sucks in the bush.
Unless you live in the karoo or Namibia and only shoot far then there are better general purpose calibers.

Even my most hated .270 is more an all rounder.

**Malcolm B** · 02-08-2014, 20:36

Thanks for the quick reply

it was suggested to me by a friend but I worry his want has clouded his judgement. I even considered a 6.5x55 swede but am worried about availability of components. .270 seems like a logical choice but I would Need to do a little research.

thanks again

**Maroelas** · 02-08-2014, 20:37

Originally Posted by shark_za

The .25-06 is a great plains hunting caliber but sucks in the bush.
Unless you live in the karoo or Namibia and only shoot far then there are better general purpose calibers.

Even my most hated .270 is more an all rounder.

This

**Malcolm B** · 02-08-2014, 20:46

Googled .270 and like what I read nice variety of bullet choice and seems to be very adaptable for different uses.

Thanks new top of the list

**driepootx** · 02-08-2014, 20:53

Take a good look at the range of calibres I mentioned. For a one gun owner being able to shoot up to 175gr bullets helps with the larger animals. I am a great lover of the 7x64 and 7mm bullets have good BC's for long distance as well as adequate penetration. Rifles are not as available as in the other calibres but CZ and Sabatti would be choices.

**Malcolm B** · 02-08-2014, 21:01

Seen a few Sabatti rifles nicely priced too. Must research the above

thank you

**zakiwi** · 02-08-2014, 21:06

Yeah, I'm glad that the other lads have settled the 25-06 discussion. I agree 100% with what they said ... It's a rifle suited to someone who has all their bases covered already ... Nevermind the fact that it's a barrel burner and you'll be wanting to stay away from cartridges that are going to result in you replacing your barrel frequently.

I agree with Driepoot ... I can't think of a bad 7mm or 30 cal cartridge for general hunting. I also agree with him that you should probably stay away from magnums for now, but having said that, I'd be looking just below that bracket ... i.e 7x57, 7x64, 7mm08, 308, 3006. All are very suitable to your needs.

**JouDoring** · 02-08-2014, 21:34

you also need to think about where you want to hunt. A .270win is good for gemsbok and anything smaller in more open country. However if you are going to be doing most of your hunting in the bush, then you might want to take a look at a .308win or something similar.