So, I've been mulling a future build in a long action caliber just because. Main use is going to be shooting steel out to 1000, and maybe a bit further (but not by much). It may be brought out on a big game hunt, if necessary due to limitations on the .308s I usually shoot, but will most likely be used only at the range.

I've got most of the details worked out with a Surgeon/Lawton/Defiance action mated to a Shilen barrel in an XLR chassis. But the problem I'm running into is the caliber.

The two choices are 30-06 or 6.5x55 Swede. I know there are a lot of other options with 300 WM or 7mm, but for reasons of economy (cheap Lapua brass, longer barrel life, and availability) I am keeping it to these two unless someone can really show me a vast improvement.

Do ya'll think there is an appreciable difference between these two calibers, or is it going to be more of a toss up?