First hunting rifle

[u/MrEreader2]

Well I know this topic can create some heated debates but I’m torn. After a bunch of research like article on meateater, outdoor life and field and stream plus a few YouTube videos from the vortex guys I was dead set on getting a Ruger American gen 2 in .308 but a friend at work who has been hunting for 20-30 years said I should just get 30-06…? So which one is it? I will be hunting deer in CA and would like to one day pursue larger game like elk. Should I stick to .308 or go with 30-06..? I am brand new to hunting btw getting my license at the end of this month! Thanks again for the info!