So - I recently got my first 22LR (Lithgow LA101 Left handed, polymer stock, Meopta meopro 4.5-15x50), and love it. Sighted in and shoots like a laser at 50m with CCI standard and Norma. I mainly intend to use it for target shooting at the range (and maybe some comp down the track), and occasional pest control or rabbiting with friends.
Unfortunately, I think I'm in the position of probably only having space, budget, and 'permission' to get a second rifle. I'm really keen to get into long range, but there aren't many ranges in metro Melbourne that go out beyond 500m. 1000y would be the dream... but reality may not support the dream. So I'm looking at my second rifle being a centrefire, for pretty much the same purposes - mainly range and target shooting at distance, and then the occasional hunt with friends. I have a friend who plans on going deer shooting some time soon, and suspect that'll be the main of my hunting, other than pest control (foxes etc) at distance.
I've been reading this forum (especially this post
viewtopic.php?f=2&t=1335 - which five calibres should I own), and some other sites, and considering my goals vs budget vs the thought of ongoing running costs of ammo etc ... I think I'm leaning towards a .308.
That being said however I wanted to check in with the brains trust in here.... What calibre would you recommend (though *very* happy to take rifle advice too) for these needs - a 308, or would I be better served by a 7mm-08, 30-06, 270, 243 (or even 300 win mag)? I'm keen on the sport, and don't mind a less popular calibre, but also don't want to break the bank on ammo costs (
- a contradiction, I know with shooting).
I am considering 2nd hand, but as a leftie, it gets hard to find stuff.
Cheers all