Here We Go Again! I need to build a Mule Deer Rifle

[Boatninja]

I know this subject is worn out but things are constantly changing and I want to hear from knowledgable shooters.
Last year I took a Mule Deer buck with a 6 Creed at a little over 350 yds because .270 got damaged. Deer dropped in its tracks with a shot through the shoulders. Guides kinda didn't like the idea but my other option was to shoot an unfamiliar, borrowed rifle, but that is another story.
I have an empty short action (bolt head isn't an issue) and was thinking about putting something together to shoot out to about 400. I was thinking about 7-08 but maybe I'm missing other options. I have also thought about 270 WSSM, but never shot one and recoil.....
Maybe experienced people can chime in with thoughts on something else or both. Recoil is a consideration, I hand load for several current and former wildcats but for this one, I can/will hand load but off shelf or internet ammo would be good.
Bullet selection, barrel twist etc suggestions welcome, short barrel is a plus, I do not want a 6.5 Creedmore!
Oh yea, going to same place this year!

I have three empty American Rifle Company SHORT actions and that is what I'm using!!!

 

[Couesnguns]

My opinion would be a 6.5 SAUM with a 20" barrel and 1:8 twist and with Unknown Munitions short action mag COAL of 3.00" pushing the 156s at 3k would be a great mule deer round. I use a 26" barrel and achieved 3200 with RL26.
7mm-08 with the 150 eldx would be a great mule deer rifle, less recoil and possible off the shelf ammo.
270 WSM with a 1:8 twist barrel and 170 berger EOL is an all round deer/elk rifle. But if you are wanting to shoot out to 400 yards in a short action for deer, the 7mm-08 is a superb choice for ammo availability, recoil sensitivity and knock down power.

 

[Whiskey_Tango]

Out to 400? .308

 

[Rick Richard]

6.5 or 7 SAUM

 

[adk hunter]

Walk into any retail outlet and look at the shelves...
.308 will have 12 choices.
6.5cm 3-4 maybe
7mm-08 one if lucky

The 175/.308 Terminal Ascent is bad medicine if your gun likes them.
Also, there is a near 90 page thread currently trending on here...

 

[nksmfamjp]

308, 270 win, 6.8 western, 7-08, 6.5x55 are all good choices

 

[Longtine88]

7mm saum fits that bill so we'll for sure. Only thing I really don't like it in a short action cause of it restricts you from shooting the 180's efficiently.

A 6.5 saum or 6.5 prc with 140 elites would put their dobber in the dirt for sure also.

 

[Wyo37]

Since you have a 6 creed (which is the answer btw), 22 creed? Factory ammunition will be available next year.

 

[unclecroc]

You already have the rifle you're describing. The 6 creed will handle all deer sized game very well to 400 yards. Some factory ammo is available but a large selection of bullets are available for handloading. If elk is in the mix it would be hard to pass up a 7mm-08 or 308 given your criteria.

 

[Chas1]

Out to 400? .308

+1

 

[HalfMileKiller]

Stay with the .270 Winchester. Ammo, brass, projectiles are readily available and is the perfect 400 yard mulie caliber. Not new or sexy, just perfect!

 

[M1A1ABRAMS]

deleted, same comment as Halfmile

 

[jrkotz]

400 yards a 6 creed would be my choice. To reach out further, 6.5 PRC. Great factory ammo options for both

 

[Lenny Foffa]

So many to pick from, but my favorites .270 Win with 24 inch BBL for moderate ranges or .270 Weatherby Mag, with 26 inch BBL if you're shooting from extended ranges. 130 gen ballistic tips or 150Grn ABLR bullets. Best of luck on your choice!!