Thread: hi there

Hi @anothermous Welcome. As you may have noticed, you managed to kick off the "this calibre is best argument on your first post. Dont take it personally, you will soon get to know it is an ongoing discussion that I am sure will have no end.

For a centrefire, there are a number f things to consider . Price, quality, budget, use, and ammo. I will probably get flamed for this, but in NZ anything from 243 to 7mm08, 308, 270, 30/06, 6.5x55, and anything in between, will do you well for any game you might come across in this great country.

If you have not shot a lot, the only advice I will offer is look for economical calibre / brands of ammo. Start with lots of practise and get used to your rifle. Get good at it and that takes ammo, ammo and a bit more ammo. This would be the main reason I would usually suggest a 308. There is a lot of ammo about for it, some as little as $28 per box for hunting ammo. If you get 7mm0-8 or many of the other calibres you may find ammo starts at quite a bit more for a box.

And if you are not working Tuesday noghts, it could be worth visiting the Handloaders range on their public night. (or deerstalkers on their public days.) Clubs are often a great way to get started at meeting fellow hunters.