Washington State Hunters Ed Practice Exam

What type of rifle is most commonly used for big game hunting?

1. .22 caliber

2. .270 caliber

3. .50 caliber

4. 5.56mm caliber

The correct answer is: .270 caliber

The .270 caliber rifle is often the preferred choice for big game hunting due to its effective balance of power, range, and manageable recoil. The .270 Winchester, in particular, is known for its flat trajectory and high velocity, making it suitable for a variety of large game animals such as deer, elk, and antelope. Its bullet design allows for deep penetration and effective expansion upon impact, which is crucial for ensuring a humane and ethical harvest. This caliber has proven itself highly versatile, able to take down animals in different environments and at various distances, which is essential for big game hunting. Additionally, .270 ammunition is widely available, making it a practical option for hunters. Other calibers provided in the choices, while used in certain contexts, do not typically match the .270 in terms of effectiveness for big game hunting. For instance, the .22 caliber is more appropriate for small game and pests, the .50 caliber, often found in firearms like muzzleloaders or larger hunting rifles, is used for very specific hunting situations, and the 5.56mm caliber is primarily a military cartridge not designed for big game hunting.