A 30.06 is in my opinion the best all around cartridge for hunting anything in the lower 48. Flat enough shooting for any sane distance, great selection of factory ammo if you dont handload, and spit bullets out at the velocities they work best at. Not too much gun for antelope, and plenty for elk. A 30-30 is a great deer gun, but is not enough gun for elk, at least with the factory loads that are available. If you want a light lever gun, go for a .308, also a very good all around gun for deer and elk. Bolt guns can be made pretty light however, and id choose a bolt gun. Levers just feel funny in my hands.