48th guns you could not be more correct. Handloads in the 06 with Barnes 180 grain XLC bullets at max case capacity and pressure deliver 2157 LBS of Kinetic energy at 400 yards. That is actually ahead of any 7MM handload by any manual that I have ever seen. So the 7MM is not a step up nor is it going to deliver superior energy or momentum vs the 06 at the muzzle or downrange. The big game advantage is to the 06. The 7MM shines vs the 06 with lighter bullets and smaller gamewith aslightly flatter trajectory. Keep in mind the 06 MPBR is still 300 yards with a 165 grain bullet. Longer than most of us have any business shooting at game under hunting conditions. I think getting a cartridge with some separation makes more sense. 300Weatherby etc.