308 vs 30-06

Carlos Hathcock didn't choose the 30/06. The USMC chose it for him. In later years, he would have had a 308.
People can say whatever they want and I have had some pretty good shooting 30/06's but on the average, the 308 is more accurate and easier to achieve competitive accuracy with, than the 30/06. I have had target rifles in both chamberings and consistently half-minute 308's are easy, the same rifle in 30/06, not so much.
Action rigidity. When people peak of the short action being more rigid, they are speaking of the rigidity of the receiver as the barrel support/ bedding part of the outfit. Not the breeching system. Shorter is stiffer but, in the real world, it probably makes very little difference. One of the most accurate 308's I ever shot was built on a long 700 action. Regards, Bill
 
In later tours Carlos Hathcock carried a Remington 700/USMC M40 chambered in .308Win. He used both and publicly expressed his preference for the M40 & the .308 Win.

If you're looking for a dedicated, off-the-rack "target" rifle, you're only options are the Savages already mentioned or one of Remington's heavy barrel varmint or tactical models such as the 700VS, 700VSSF, 700VSSF II, 700VLS, 700 LTR, 700P, 700 Sendero. AFAIK, none are offered in .30-06. That caliber was essentially supplanted by the .308 Win 50 years ago. You get equivalent performance in a small, more efficient case with superior accuracy. The .308 Win is considered a 1000 yard cartridge and with the right ammo or handloads can deliver MOA performance at those ranges.

The only advantage the .30-06 offers for paper punchers/target shooters is the ability to more efficiently use heavier 200+ grain bullets. Bullets that really aren't used by long distance shooters who almost overwhelming prefer bullets in either 168gr or 175 gr. More often than not, Sierra Match Kings or SMKs.
 
He he. See I stirred the pot. I'd like to be able give some valuable input, but I've only ever shot a variety of 300s. Just look for a rifle that is cost effective to your lifestyle, easy and fun to shoot, and has a large aftermarket following. Cause we all know every rifle never ends up stock for very long.
 
knockturnal said:
He he. See I stirred the pot. I'd like to be able give some valuable input, but I've only ever shot a variety of 300s. Just look for a rifle that is cost effective to your lifestyle, easy and fun to shoot, and has a large aftermarket following. Cause we all know every rifle never ends up stock for very long.
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That is a really good point! I wonder if they make ipod docks for the 700? Anyway, I was leaning more towards the 30-06 at the beginning of this because you have a few more choices with grain and loads. Now it seems like the 308 might be just as good in a smaller package. To many choices...
 
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