I want to build/buy something that would work for African Plains Game AND Alaskan game (moose, caribou, black bear, mountain goat, elk, maybe brown bear).
Hello PBrick,
Either the .375 H&H or the .338 Winchester.
The .375 will handle heavier bullets for large dangerous animals, such as grizzly (“brown”) bear, African buffalo and so forth.
Plus, it is the lightest caliber allowed in several African countries, for hunting their various dangerous game animals.
I mention this because once you see wild African buffaloes, it is very likely you will plan a future hunt for same.
That said, the .338 with 250 grain bullets is a favorite cartridge here in Alaska with many hunters of bear, moose and bison.
I expect it would also be a quite excellent cartridge for Africa’s so called “plains game”, wether close in hunting, even for huge eland in thick bush or long shots at smallish animals, such as springbok.
Loaded with 225 grain spitzer bullets, it shoots very flat.
Both of these cartridges respectively, enjoy each it’s own well deserved awesome reputation.
You already have one of the world’s best .30 caliber rifles - the .30-06 Springfield caliber.
And so for your plan to some day hunt some of the African and also Alaskan species, I recommend a somewhat larger bore as your next rifle.
Best Regards,
Velo Dog.