When choosing a firearm to hunt big game in Oregon, there is a range of options that will work just fine, it’s important to consider what species, terrain, and season you will be hunting. Most hunters choose to use a scope, but open sights are an old-school alternative if that’s your speed.
Calibers for Big Game Hunting, Janis Putelis, Meateater
Legal Hunting Methods and Weapon Restrictions, ODFW
Not all guns or bullets are legal for hunting in Oregon. Read this chart to understand requirements for gun hunting based on species and firearm type.
How to Buy a Gun, Zero to Hunt
How to Buy Your First (Nice) Hunting Rifle, Ron Spomer, Outdoor Life
10 Modern Classic Deer Rifles, John Snow, Outdoor Life
The Complete Hunting Rifle Battery, Chuck Hawks
10 Great Rifles for Hunting the West, Aram von Benedikt, Outdoor Life
Once you pick a cartridge, pick a rifle.
Groups of Rifle Cartridges, Chuck Hawks
Picking a rifle cartridge for hunting can be exhausting and start a small war among hunters. This list compares most commercial cartridges and shows what species they are suitable for. Chuck Hawks does favor traditional and tested cartridges, so the latest and greatest probably won’t be on this list.
5 of the Best Cartridges for Big Game Hunting in the West, Aram von Benedikt, Outdoor Life
No nonsense advice from Von Benedikt, who along with his twin Brother brother has thousands of hours of experience taking big game with rifles.
Terminal Ballistics Research, Nathan Foster
From New Zealand, Foster has built a massive library of articles and books discussing shooting technique, rifle selection, and how different bullets perform on game. An excellent guide for intermediate and advanced rifle hunters who want to learn more about why they should pick a certain bullet or cartridge and understand real-world, successful shooting techniques.