I was trying to decide between these two calibers a few weeks ago. I went with the 308. I like the 7-08 and I think its a good caliber for deer.But I think the 308 has better ballistics with and knock down for the distances I'll be shooting deer with it. It's also a match grade caliber and you can buy bulk ammo in 308 also which is readily available if you like to shoot alot. I've yet to shoot a deer with it but I have seen others who have and it will definitly do the job and then some.