I have that exact calibre/gauge combination in a Merkel therefore need no convincing on the suitability for medium game, small feral pigs up to about 60 KGs being the biggest game I have taken. Ballistics are the same as a 6.5x55, even the loading data can be used from the Swede for the Mauser cartridge, May not be an Elk or Moose hunting rig but fairly handy for the smaller game none the less.