Long Range Elk Caliber

[Takman]

Looking for opinions on caliber choice for a long range elk project. Long range being 400-1000 yds.

[budlight]

You should include these in your question:

I hand load or don't hand load

Yes I want a custom gun

Weight - like target 30 inch barrels

do you max performance or just a get the job done.

what do you want 7mm 30 cal or 338 cal

[Fiftydriver]

For a dedicated elk rifle for use at 1000 yards I do prefer a 338 caliber rifle but that is greatly dependant on what bullet you use and what chambering you are using.

It is a pretty established rule though that for mature, trophy bull elk at 1000 yards, the 338 cal with at least 300 gr bullets is a good choice.

As already mentioned, there are alot of options to deal with concerning this question!!

Kirby Allen(50)

[JD338]

338 RUM is a hammer for elk.

JD338

[ATH]

I went with 300WM. That way I can get by without a brake and still enjoy shooting the gun a lot. Of course, I don't plan on actually shooting elk over 600 yds. I'd have gone with a .338 at 1000 too.

[Rymart]

338 Lapua Mag, 338 Lapua Improved, 338 RUM, 338 Edge/338-300, 338-378 Weatherby. 300 RUM, 300 Weatherby,... and others.....

[Meister]

You might search a little on this site, there is a wealth of info on this subject. The calibers are endless, it's mainly personal preference. More info on what you want to do with the rifle will help.
Are you going to carry it in the field? If so what is your weight limit? Do you reload? are you going to use a brake? How long must the barrel last? Must the ammo be readily available and cheap? Are you wary of serious recoil? Lastly, how deep are your pockets?