TIME OR REBARREL

You might just consider a simple rechambering to .30-06 Ackley Improved.  It is a very cost effective improvement in performance, and gives some really great flexibility to your rifle, while still retaining the potential of using factory 30-06 ammo in a pinch.


I've used the .30-06AI for a number of years now, mine a converted Ruger KM77MKII with 22" barrel.  It's really amazing when with the right load it will deliver 3,000 fps with a 180 grain load and 3150 fps with a 165 grain Barnes X bullet when fed the right combination of components, and still print into under .5 MOA on demand!  Too, if you choose to move up to a 200 grain bullet for moose, it will really show its superiority to the standard '06 chambering in terms of raw horsepower.

Just my experience and opinion for what it's worth!

God Bless,

Marshall

My vote is for the 6.5/06.  What a great caliber.  The 140 grain bullets are hard to beat, one of the best ballistic coefficients around.  I know of one in particular that has taken elk, deer, antelope, several african species, and a wolf.  Hits hard, good flat trajectory.  I recommend going with the 26" barrel, with it being fluted, it won't be much more noticable in weight than a 24", with a pretty good payoff in the velocity dept.  This is just my opinion however, there is a downfall however, with the .308 and the .284 there are more bulllets available, but with the 140 and 120 grains, you shouldn't need much variety.  

LI

If you look at the Nosler manual it contains good data for the 30-06 AI. I converted a poor shooting Model 70 using a 24" Douglas barrel. I have only tried 150 and 180gr. bullets but have acquired some 200gr. premiums and am considering taking this gun to Africa next spring. The largest species planned is Kudu. (No flames please. I have bigger guns but several elk have not complained so far.)
Generally, I have been able to approximate .300H&H ballistics with the light bullets and some guidance from an Oehler 43. I doubt the heavy bullets will quite get there but will be more than adequate for the job.
 My only diffuculty was some feeding problems from the right side of the magazine which was easy to resolve.
 The other calibers mentioned may be adequate but less versitile. After all, if you need ammo fast the 30-06 can be found anywhere and shooting factory stuff will just give you fire-formed cases.