Best .25-06 Remington Ammo

The .25-06 Remington spent decades as a beloved wildcat cartridge before Remington finally standardized it in 1969. Built on the venerable .30-06 case necked down to accept .257 caliber bullets, this cartridge delivers exceptional velocity and flat trajectories that made it a favorite among hunters pursuing pronghorn and mule deer across open western terrain. The quarter-bore pushes 100-grain bullets past 3,200 fps and lighter 85-grain varmint loads beyond 3,400 fps.

What distinguishes the .25-06 from its competitors is the balance between power and shootability. It hits harder than the .243 Winchester while generating less recoil than the .270 Winchester, occupying a sweet spot that appeals to hunters who want more authority without the punishment of larger magnums. Modern high-BC bullets in the 110 to 120-grain range have extended its effective range considerably, making it a legitimate 400-yard deer cartridge in capable hands. The long action length required by the .30-06 parent case is its primary drawback, but hunters who appreciate the cartridge consider that a minor trade-off for its performance.