30-06 Springfield: The universal cartridge

The 30-06 Springfield cartridge (Pronounced "thirty-aught-six" or "thirty-oh-six") was introduced to the United States Army in 1906 and was used until the early 1970s.  It replaced the 6mm Lee Navy, the 30-40 Krieg, and its own parent cartridge the 30-03. This no-nonsense rifle round was the US Army's main cartridge for over 45 years. It served in two world wars, Korea, and Vietnam. It was chambered in the M1903 Springfield, the M1917 Enfield, the M1 Garand, and the Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR). When the 30-06 was replaced by the 308 Winchester (very similar to the 30-06) a large amount of ammunition was brought as surplus by civilians. Later on, hunters realized the use of this powerful cartridge on deer and elk size game. Finally, companies such as Winchester, Remington, and Federal started making ammunition and rifles chambered for this cartridge.           

           

            I would recommend this cartridge to anyone considering big game hunting or long range protection in the event of civil unrest.  It has semi-mild recoil compared to most rifle cartridges. As long as you follow through with shot placement, it will successfully drop any animal in North America. The one main characteristic that places the 30-06 over all other cartridges is the large choice of bullets. If you need a round for Coyote; look no farther than the 150 grain. If you are heading after white-tail or Elk; the 165 grain will do the job. For those of you big on rifle cartridge reloading, I have seen a few bullet companies that sell 200 and 220 grain bullets, and these bad boys could do magic on grizzlies and Moose (This might help out you wild ass Canadian eh.)

            I currently own a Rossi single shot chambered for this amazing round. My preferred brand of ammunition is Federal, only because it is usually cheaper than other brands. The 150 grain Soft point seems to be the most common bullet in my area, and a good scope is also something to consider, however I prefer iron sights because I find them to be more reliable. My little Rossi has been with me through thick and thin, and has been successful in dropping two whitetails (a spike and a four point), all with the aid of a 50 dollar 3-9x Tasco scope. 

    

Stay safe out there readers, and until next time, Homestead Hermit—signing off……..