Top 7 Best Hunting Calibers for Every Big Game in America
What is the best hunting caliber for the animals you actually chase, whether that is whitetail in your backyard woods or a bull elk deep in the Rockies? In this episode of Brass and Steel, we count down seven of the most trusted hunting calibers in America, ranked by real world versatility, reliability, and decades of proven performance in the field. From the soft shooting .243 Winchester perfect for new hunters, all the way up to the legendary .30-06 Springfield that has been feeding American hunting camps for over a century, this list covers the calibers that guides, collectors, and everyday hunters trust most. We break down the history behind each cartridge, how it performs in real hunting conditions, its pros and cons, and current market pricing, so you can decide which one deserves a place in your own gun safe. Featured in this countdown: 7. 243 Winchester 6. 270 Winchester 5. 7mm Remington Magnum 4. 300 Winchester Magnum 3. 308 Winchester 2. 6.5 Creedmoor 1. 30-06 Springfield California viewers, please note that as of 2019, non lead ammunition is required for all hunting statewide, regardless of which caliber you choose. If you found this helpful, hit like, drop a comment with your own pick for best hunting caliber, and subscribe to Brass and Steel for more no nonsense firearms breakdowns every week. Timestamps 00:00 Intro 01:25 Number 7, 243 Winchester 04:22 Number 6, 270 Winchester 07:01 Number 5, 7mm Remington Magnum 09:52 Number 4, 300 Winchester Magnum 12:36 Number 3, 308 Winchester 15:18 Number 2, 6.5 Creedmoor 18:17 Number 1, 30-06 Springfield 21:55 Final Thoughts Disclaimer, all pricing mentioned is approximate at the time of publishing and may vary by retailer and by state. This video is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for professional firearms training or legal advice on local regulations. #BestHuntingCaliber #HuntingRifle #BrassAndSteel

.308 vs 30-06 vs .270 Win: Which Legend Actually Wins in 2026?

Why These 5 Legendary Big Game Rifles Still Outshoot Modern Rifles

Out of All Calibers, THIS Is Officially #1 For Every Hunt in Alaska

Top 5 Classic American Bolt-Action Rifles That Keep Rising in Value

Most Prepper Guns Are The Wrong Choice — Here Are the 7 That Actually Work

Best Bolt-Action Rifles 2026: The Top 5 Every Hunter Should Know

The Hunting Scope Tiers That All Come Off The Same Japanese Line (The Logo Tax)

The #1 Hunting Scope Brands of 2026 – Leupold, Vortex, Nightforce & More Ranked

The 5 Best Hunting Rifles That Will Last Forever. (And Still Outshoot Modern Guns)

.30-06 vs .308 — I Shot Both Side by Side (The Winner Isn't Even Close)

The Truth About the .243 Winchester Nobody Told You

This Is The Only Caliber You'll Ever Need To Hunt Everything In America

The ONLY Calibers That Can Hunt Everything in America!

Out of All Hunting Calibers, This Is the One That Can Hunt Everything in America

Top 7 Budget Bolt-Action Rifles Under $800 That Actually Deliver

These Cartridges Have Killed MORE Deer Than Anything Else!

5 Ammo Brands ROBBING You Blind (And 5 That Are Worth Stockpiling)

If War Starts Tomorrow, Skip the 9mm — Stockpile This Instead

Top 15 Guns Only IDIOTS will Buy!

