“.264 winchester magnum”

Which of these cartridges represents the wisest choice for hunters, and why should you prefer one over the other? Contributor Philip Massaro examines the pros and cons of each.

Hunters who enjoy using cartridges that aren’t among the most popular should consider a rifle chambered in .358 Norma Magnum. It’s a flat shooter—mimicking the trajectory of a .30-06 with heavier bullets—and is a fully capable all-around choice.

Here are four of the many reasons to hate the 6.5 Creedmoor.

If the two cartridges deliver the same velocities and both will fit in a short-action magazine, which makes the most sense for the hunter choosing a 6.5mm rifle? Contributor Philip Massaro examines the pros and cons of each.

Let’s take a look at the top five underrated deer cartridges; designs that work extremely well but just don’t get the recognition they should.

Metric cartridges have traditionally struggled in America, but even in the 1950s, the engineers at Winchester saw the benefits of the 6.5mm bore diameter. The 1958 release of the .264 Winchester Magnum in the Model 70 Westerner rifle saw a flat-shooting, hard-hitting voluminous case, perfect for medium-sized game.

If you’re attracted to .45-caliber cartridges for dangerous-game hunting, the .458 Lott is a serious contender for the top of the heap.

The .240 Weatherby Magnum is the fastest 6mm on the commercial market, exceeding the muzzle velocity of the .243 Win. and 6mm Rem. by 300 fps. If you’re the hunter who likes obscure cartridges, the .240 Wby. Mag. is a great choice for deer, pronghorn and similar-sized game.

Your chosen hunting cartridge may not be trending up, but that doesn’t mean these classic rounds aren’t effective and efficient on game.