Hard to beat the 7mm-08 Rem and I agree that it is more versatile than the 260 Rem. However, the 260 Rem looks like a good cartridge provided it doesn't pass into the "good cartridges that didn't make it" category. As far as a lever action 30-30 Win for a fist gun, I highly recommend against it. First of all it is a one trick pony. A short range, anemic cartridge that is chambered in guns designed for short range shooting. Secondly, small, excited thumbs can easily slip off the hammer after forgetting the hammer block safety.