With almost 16 million hunters in the United States, and with such a huge range of game to hunt, the right rifle and the best cartridge is critical. We have some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet, with animals ranging from tiny squirrels to gigantic moose. The cornerstone of a successful hunt lies in the hunter’s skill and knowledge but also in the choice of ammunition. The right cartridge can make all the difference, offering the power needed for a clean, humane kill without compromising the quality of the game.
Just as you wouldn’t tackle a moose with a cartridge meant for a squirrel, the reverse is true, too, as there wouldn’t be anything left of the squirrel to harvest if you took it down with a big game cartridge. For hunters, understanding the ballistic nuances of different cartridges is key. Small game such as squirrels and groundhogs can be ethically harvested with cartridges delivering between 300 to 500 foot-pounds of energy.
Medium-sized game, including deer and antelope, require a heftier punch, typically around 1,000 to 1,200 foot-pounds. For larger quarry like elk and black bear, cartridges should exceed 1,500 foot-pounds, while the most formidable game, such as grizzly bears and moose, demand cartridges delivering a staggering 2,000 to 3,000 foot-pounds of energy. While the notion of a universal cartridge remains elusive, certain cartridges stand out for their adaptability across hunting scenarios.
Sportsman’s Warehouse analyzed over 90 rifle cartridges and, using their ballistics data, we’ve compiled a list of the 14 most versatile. They were judged across a spectrum of criteria including performance at ranges from 100 to 500 yards and variations in bullet weight. This resulted in a versatility index score from 0 (least versatile) to 5 (most versatile), showcasing cartridges that can efficiently take down nearly any size game within reasonable distances.
It’s important to recognize that the perfect choice in cartridges often boils down to personal preference and specific hunting needs. Also remember that hunting and gun laws vary by state and municipality. Hunting game with a rifle isn’t legal in some places, so you need to be familiar with your quarry and the local laws before you head off to hunt. Please note, the versatility index provided here offers a broad overview based on available data and does not account for every variable, such as barrel length or the comprehensive list of bullet weights for each cartridge.
Additionally, hunting regulations and permitted methods can differ by state and locale, emphasizing the importance of thorough research and preparation before any hunting expedition. Also note that the performance in foot-pounds is dependent on bullet mass. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, understanding the capabilities and versatility of your ammunition can significantly enhance your hunting experience.
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1. .30-06 Springfield
- Overall versatility score: 4.9 out of 5
- Performance at 100 yds: 1,615-2,769 ft./lbs.; large to toughest game
- Performance at 300 yds: 993-2,076 ft./lbs.; small game to the toughest game
- Performance at 500 yds: 587-1,526 ft./lbs.; small to large game
- Number of bullet weights considered: 4; 125-180 grain
The .30-06 Springfield has been a favorite among North American big-game hunters for over a century. This cartridge is renowned for its ability to cleanly take down game ranging from deer to elk and moose within 200 yards, thanks to its versatile bullet energy delivery. At 100 yards, it can unleash a devastating 1,615 to 2,769 foot-pounds of energy, ensuring a humane kill across a wide range of game sizes. Its performance slightly diminishes at longer distances, yet it remains effective for smaller targets up to 300 yards and beyond with lighter 125 grain bullets. This cartridge’s historical significance is bolstered by its use in World War II, further cementing its place in American hunting and military history.
2. .270 Winchester
- Overall versatility score: 4.0 out of 5
- Performance at 100 yds: 1,605-2,604 ft./lbs.; large to toughest game
- Performance at 300 yds: 1,113-1,986 ft./lbs.; medium game to the toughest game
- Performance at 500 yds: 751-1,497 ft./lbs.; small to large game
- Number of bullet weights considered: 5; 120-150 grain
Introduced in the 1920s, the .270 Winchester cartridge has proven its worth through decades of reliable performance. Known for its flat trajectory up to 300 yards, it’s a top choice for hunting big game across North America. With bullet weights ranging from 120 to 150 grains, it provides flexibility for hunters targeting medium to large game, even at distances beyond 400 yards. The .270 Winchester’s adaptability and effectiveness make it a standout option for hunters seeking a cartridge capable of handling almost any game.
3. .308 Winchester
- Overall versatility score: 3.9 out of 5
- Performance at 100 yds: 1,584-2,455 ft./lbs.; large to toughest game
- Performance at 300 yds: 971-1,821 ft./lbs.; small to large game
- Performance at 500 yds: 573-1,364 ft./lbs.; small to medium game
- Number of bullet weights considered: 6; 125-178 grain
The .308 Winchester has remained a go-to choice for hunters and marksmen 70 years after its introduction. Its enduring popularity is attributed to its balance of power and versatility. Capable of delivering between 1,584 to 2,455 foot-pounds of energy at 100 yards, it can effectively take down the toughest game. Its versatility shines with 125 grain bullets for small game at long distances and heavier bullets for larger game. The .308’s lasting presence in the hunting community underscores its reliability and adaptability.
4. .375 H & H Magnum
- Overall versatility score: 3.5 out of 5
- Performance at 100 yds: 3,292-3,935 ft./lbs.; toughest game
- Performance at 300 yds: 1,875-2,699 ft./lbs.; large to toughest game
- Performance at 500 yds: 1,050-1,793 ft./lbs.; medium to large game
- Number of bullet weights considered: 3; 250-300 grain
The .375 H & H Magnum, a creation of British gunmaker Holland & Holland in 1912, is synonymous with African big game hunting. Its impressive energy delivery—up to 3,935 foot-pounds at 100 yards—makes it suitable for the largest game. Despite its age, the .375 H & H maintains popularity due to its precision and power. It’s also versatile enough for North American game, offering effective performance with 300 grain bullets for large and medium-sized targets.
5. 7mm-08 Remington
- Overall versatility score: 3.3 out of 5
- Performance at 100 yds: 1,579-2,274 ft./lbs.; large to toughest game
- Performance at 300 yds: 1,057-1,784 ft./lbs.; medium to large game
- Performance at 500 yds: 685-1,381 ft./lbs.; small to medium game
- Number of bullet weights considered: 3; 120-150 grain
The 7mm-08 Remington, a .308 Winchester round modified to accept 7mm bullets, offers a lighter, lower recoil alternative without sacrificing capability. This cartridge is well-suited for a broad range of North American game, from moose and bear to deer and hogs. Its performance metrics, including delivering up to 2,274 foot-pounds of energy at 100 yards, ensure its place as a reliable choice for hunters targeting various game sizes. Its capacity to take down game on African plains further demonstrates its versatility and effectiveness in diverse hunting scenarios.
6. .375 Ruger
- Overall versatility score: 2.9 out of 5
- Performance at 100 yds: 3,660-4,052 ft./lbs.; toughest game
- Performance at 300 yds: 2,110-2,786 ft./lbs.; toughest game
- Performance at 500 yds: 1,174-1,880 ft./lbs.; medium to large game
- Number of bullet weights considered: 3; 250-300 grain
Introduced in 2007, the .375 Ruger may not top the popularity charts, but it’s a powerhouse in versatility. With a maximum energy output of 4,052 foot-pounds at just 100 yards, this caliber stands out for its ability to tackle the most formidable game. Even at distances of 300 to 400 yards, it retains enough power for North America’s toughest animals. Its performance with a 300 grain bullet also makes it a solid choice for medium-sized game at greater ranges.
7. .376 Steyr
- Overall versatility score: 2.7 out of 5
- Performance at 100 yds: 2,714-3,373 ft./lbs.; toughest game
- Performance at 300 yds: 1,694-2,283 ft./lbs.; large to toughest game
- Performance at 500 yds: 1,023-1,500 ft./lbs.; medium to large game
- Number of bullet weights considered: 2; 225 & 270 grain
Crafted for adaptability in 1999, the .376 Steyr, excels in taking down the most challenging game at 100 yards with a 270 grain bullet. It also performs admirably at 400 to 500 yards for medium-sized targets with a 225 grain bullet. This caliber’s design caters to hunters seeking flexibility, capable of handling large African game as well as North American species across different distances.
8. .300 Winchester Magnum
- Overall versatility score: 2.6 out of 5
- Performance at 100 yds: 2,973-3,297 ft./lbs.; toughest game
- Performance at 300 yds: 2,026-2,587 ft./lbs.; toughest game
- Performance at 500 yds: 1,333-2,033 ft./lbs.; medium to large game
- Number of bullet weights considered: 5; 150-200 grain
The .300 Winchester Magnum enjoys widespread acclaim among North American hunters for its versatility and power. Despite its notable recoil, it’s equipped to deal with virtually any large game, including elk, moose, and bear. Ideal for longer-range engagements with larger game, we wouldn’t advise its use for smaller game due to its potent impact. If you’re hunting smaller things than deer, go for a different caliber.
9. .45-70 Government
- Overall versatility score: 2.1 out of 5
- Performance at 100 yds: 895-2,158 ft./lbs.; small game to the toughest game
- Performance at 300 yds: 636-1,083 ft./lbs.; small to medium game
- Performance at 500 yds: Not recommended
- Number of bullet weights considered: 3; 250-410 grain
A veteran in the hunting world, the .45-70 Government has been a trusted choice since the 1800s. Its capability to fire heavy bullets up to 500 grains, though this analysis focuses on 250 to 410 grain options, allows it to deliver significant impact.
At 100 yards, a 325 grain bullet can take down tough game, while a 410 grain bullet extends its utility to smaller game at 200 and 300 yards. However, its suitability fades beyond these distances, reflecting its historical roots and specialized applications.
10. .25-06 Remington
- Overall versatility score: 2.0 out of 5
- Performance at 100 yds: 1,690-2,127 ft./lbs.; large to toughest game
- Performance at 300 yds: 1,053-1,502 ft./lbs.; medium to large game
- Performance at 500 yds: 623-1,031 ft./lbs.; small to medium game
- Number of bullet weights considered: 2; 90 & 117 grain
The .25-06 Remington strikes a balance between versatility and manageability, offering a lighter recoil ideal for deer hunting. Effective for the toughest game at 100 yards with a 117 grain bullet, it also covers large and medium game at extended ranges.
While this analysis didn’t consider bullets lighter than 90 grains, the availability of 75 grain bullets expands its utility for smaller game, making the .25-06 a preferred choice for hunters seeking a wide-ranging, effective caliber.
11. 7mm Winchester Short Magnum
- Overall versatility score: 2.0 out of 5
- Performance at 100 yds: 2,489-2,918 ft./lbs.; toughest game
- Performance at 300 yds: 1,862-2,358 ft./lbs.; large to toughest game
- Performance at 500 yds: 1,366-1,886 ft./lbs.; medium to large game
- Number of bullet weights considered: 2; 150 & 162 grain
Emerging in the early 2000s, the 7mm Winchester Short Magnum (WSM) brought a fresh perspective to hunting large and even the most challenging game. Its performance, delivering between 2,489 to 2,918 foot-pounds of energy at 100 yards, makes it a formidable choice for hunters worldwide.
Suitable for large game at 300 yards and medium to large game at 500 yards, the 7mm WSM’s adaptability across ranges is notable, especially with bullet weights of 150 and 162 grains. This caliber offers hunters a powerful option for a wide array of game.
12. .243 Winchester
- Overall versatility score: 1.7 out of 5
- Performance at 100 yds: 1,280-1,784 ft./lbs.; medium to large game
- Performance at 300 yds: 897-1,219 ft./lbs.; small to medium game
- Performance at 500 yds: 520-812 ft./lbs.; small to medium game
- Number of bullet weights considered: 6; 58-100 grain
The .243 Winchester is arguably one of the most versatile rifle calibers. With its capability to deliver 1,280 to 1,784 foot-pounds of energy at 100 yards, it’s suited for medium to large game, transitioning smoothly to small to medium game at longer distances.
The .243 is particularly valued for its low recoil and flat trajectory, making it a preferred choice for deer and varmint hunting. Taking into consideration six ddifferent bullet masses, from 58 to 100 grains, this caliber is great for hunters targeting game from less than 100 to over 1,500 pounds at close ranges.
13. 7mm Remington Magnum
- Overall versatility score: 1.5 out of 5
- Performance at 100 yds: 2,596-2,933 ft./lbs.; toughest game
- Performance at 300 yds: 1,970-2,298 ft./lbs.; large to toughest game
- Performance at 500 yds: 1,470-1,775 ft./lbs.; large game
- Number of bullet weights considered: 3; 139-162 grain
The 7mm Remington Magnum is renowned for its big-game hunting prowess. With energy outputs of 2,596 to 2,933 foot-pounds at 100 yards, it is equipped to take down the largest North American game at 400 yards or beyond. Its versatility extends to lighter game when using lower weight bullets, making it an option for varmints and predators, despite better-suited calibers existing for such game. The 7mm Rem. Mag. remains a go-to for hunters seeking reliability and power in their pursuit of large game.
14. .450 Bushmaster
- Overall versatility score: 1.5 out of 5
- Performance at 100 yds: 837-1,868 ft./lbs.; small to large game
- Performance at 300 yds: 662-874 ft./lbs.; small game
- Performance at 500 yds: Not recommended
- Number of bullet weights considered: 3; 245-395 grain
Since its introduction in 2007, the .450 Bushmaster has carved out its niche in the hunting community. Designed for semi-automatic rifles with the capability to hunt larger game, its performance peaks at 100 yards with an energy delivery between 837 to 1,868 foot-pounds. The .450 Bushmaster’s effectiveness for small game at 300 yards, and its rapid energy drop-off at longer distances, necessitates consideration for hunters calculating shots beyond 200 yards. With bullet weights ranging from 245 to 395 grains, it offers flexibility for taking down large game at close range and smaller game with heavier subsonic rounds, marking it as a unique, albeit specialized, choice for hunters.
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