crump116

In my opinion, of course I'm totally biased , the 7mm-08 would be an excellent option for your application as ithas a wide variety of 7mm bullets available from 100Grn (Varments) up to 175 Grn (Anything else), andis more than capable of making shots in to 350 Yd range.

I've gota 7mm-08in Rem 700 Mtn LSS flavor and have worked uploads for the 145 Grn Speer SP (HotCore) that has a muzzle velocity of 2,848 FPS and 2,622 FtLbs energy and at 400 Yds is still running at 2,158 FPS and 1,500 FTLbs of energy which is more than enough for the types of game you are considering. The 7mm-08 also has the added benefit ofvery light recoil.

As has aleady been mentioned, there are a number of calibers that could meet your needs. Here are a couple of links to the Remington and Federal sites that allow you to compare the ballistics of multiple cartrdges.Even though thisis"factoryammo" ballistics, it may help you with your decision process. Another thing to keep in mind, especially if you are not an handloader, is the availability and variety of factory loads. These two sitesshould also at least give you a feel for that availability and variety.

Remington:
http://www.remington.com/products/ammunition/ballistics/

Federal:
http://www.federalcartridge.com/default.asp?pg=27&firearm=1


I'm sure you know that there are a whole host of things that impact accuracy, and in my opinion,the specific caliber isNOT at the top of the list. Every rifle is different and one rifle might like one particular load and a different rifle of the exact same make and model may like something entirely different.

With that said, I have found it to be easy to develop accurate loads for the 7mm-08, at least in my gun. I've developed loads forthe 154 Grn Hornady Round Nose, 145 Grn Speer SP (HotCor), 140 Grn Nosler Accubond, 140 Grn Sierra SBT, 139 Grn Hornady SP, and the 140 Grn & 150Grn Nosler Ballistic Tips. With the exception of the Ballistic Tips, all of these shoot sub MOA at 100 YDs in my gun and even the Ballistic Tips shoot at about 1 1/4" @ 100 Yds. (I think I just need to try some different powders with the Ballistic Tips). Also, the 145 Grn Speer SP's and the 140 Grn Sierra SBT's shoot sub MOA at 200 Yds. I just haven't tried them at longer distances yet.

So don't just through the 7mm-08 out with the bathwater.....you should do a little research on your own (do a search on 7mm-08) and pay attention to what the folks here have to say as many have a lot of experience to share.........but in the end it's you that will have to make the decision.

Good luck in your caliber quest.....I hope some of this helps!

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