[bluGill]

Rural Americans have a .30-06 (or similar rifle) and know how to use it, and they often have access to more powerful guns. The question is can you hit a moving target without hitting the kids in the yard - unlikely no matter how much you train.

.30 caliber is a little light for this job, but it will work if you aim well. Generally you would want a more powerful gun.

[skymast]

Placement takes precedence over caliber size.

[SideburnsOfDoom]

I don't think that still holds true at the extremes. These extremes include

1) very small calibre

2) high stress situation where quick reaction is needed, very precise placement such as the eye is nigh impossible. "head" is a good as you'll realistically get.

3) very large animal with a thick skull.

"charging Hippo" is 2 & 3.