I like the way my CZ550 American Safari in .375H&H Mag shoots. It is heavy enough that 270gr pills that duplicate .30-06 trajectories kick about like a .30-06 in a medium sized rifle. And the recoil is more push than sharp.
I *want* a 375H&H for no good reason, but it just doesn't make sense for my actual hunting needs. I hunt in the Appalachian mountains. Nothing here needs that much power, but I'll certainly feel the weight while climbing.
The more I think about it, the more a 308 makes sense. One of the thoughts always in the back of my mind is what my girls may do with my guns after I'm gone. While I reload for everything, they may not. Being able to buy ammo at the store is a big deal. I was at Walmart last night. 308 was among the cheapest rifle calibers (223 and 30-30 being the cheapest). Even now, there was *some* 308 in stock. Also, looking at the reloading data, I can load low power rounds with Trail Boss for fun or training. It just looks like a better choice for a gun that may be owned by a non-reloading lady one day.
As for the specific platform, I got to fondle the Ruger GSR yesterday. I like it. It comes up to the shoulder nicely and the trigger isn't too bad (a bit of creep, but smooth and not too heavy). It's a good 3" shorter than my Winchester, about the same weight without scope, and can hold up to 10 rounds (or a more traditional 4 via a shorty polymer mag that doesn't stick out). I can use the open sights (ghost ring, not my preferred, but they'll work) or a forward mounted red dot for brush hunting. I'll leave the scoped rifle duties to the Winchester. The adjustable LOP will be handy for growing kids. It wasn't what I had in mind when I started looking, but I think it'll be a nice fit. I can even fit a can to it if I decided to get one. :D
Chris
