.30-06

This one replaced the .30-03 round among the US military back in 1906 which is why it got its name (06 as in 1906). Today, it is a popular bolt-action hunting round that can take down an animal of any size courtesy of its massive knockdown power and extended range. Like the 7.62, it’s got an intense recoil, but that’s just the price you pay for dead on accuracy.

• Velocity: 2,500-2,900 ft/s

• Energy: 2,800-3,000 J

• Price Point: $1.50 per round

• Bullet Weight: 150-200 gr

.50 BMG

When it comes to a rifle caliber guide, no list would be complete without the big baller that is the fifty caliber BMG (Browning Machine Gun). Its giant size, insanely long range and incredible knockdown ability makes other calibers look like toys by comparison.

This one is good for everything from sniper rifles to semi-automatic machine guns. You’ll notice that this one is much more expensive than any other round on this list, but you get what you pay for and, at least in this case, quantity equals quality.

• Velocity: 2,800-3,000 ft/s

• Energy: 18,000

• Price Point: $3.00 per round

• Bullet Weight: 647-800 gr

CONCLUSION

There you go! That’s my list of common rifle calibers. If you think of any I may have left out, drop me a line and let me know. In the meantime, fire away and have some fun with all of these great cartridges!

If you want to choose a hunting rifle for yourself, check out our hunting rifles for beginners guide and if you already own a rifle wish to add some quality optics to it, have a look at best rifle scope for money guide.

This article by Chris Browning originally appeared at Gun News Daily in 2018.

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