Just exactly how many elk have you personallyshot with the 7MM-08? Or with any caliber for that matter. All these charts and tables you pour over will tell that the 7MM-08 hits at 250 yards about the same as the .280 does at 300 yards, or the 7 Rem Mag does at 350 yards - or the 7MM Ultra Mag does at 400 yards. Impact velocity, bullet construction, and shot placement are what matter here.