I have always been a "If it ain't broke don't try to fix it" kind of guy. I have used a bunch of post around year 2000 make of bullets to take a BUNCH of deer with the 25-06. Been using one for over 30 years. They all from 100 to 120 gr killed deer really well. The top bullet I still use is the 117 Sierra Pro Hunter because my rifle likes it with this load. 49 grs IMR or AA 4350, Rem case, CCI BR primer. Runs 3000 fps out of my 26" Shilen barrel shoot bug holes and on a clam day will shoot 1/3 MOA 300 to 500 yards. Both of these powders will shoot with in the same standard of deviation and to the exact point of aim for me. The standard loads that shoots in most any 25-06 are 52 grs IMR 4350 with cup and core 100 gr bullets. 52 grs H4831 with 115 to 120s. My buddy and I did crop damage control for 15 years and had to take 100 deer a year off a big east NC farm and we shot them with everything from a sharp stick to a 45-70 and NOTHING has a better reputation from our experience of BANG FLOP results than the 25-06 and both of us choose the 117 Sierra. It might not be the most glamorous new kid on the block but let me tell you it is a real killer and don't cost you an arm and a leg. Good luck in your quest.
