Jumping on what somebody here said, live for now. Easy to say, "I might get out west someday" but how long down the road will that someday be. If you are just ging to kill deer and most other game found here in eastern US, then get the .308. Good for deer, might be a little much for prairie dogs / varments, but then, what good are they anyhow. I don't see too many varment fir lined gloves.
Sure, there may be what others consider a better cartidge, but I really like the .308.

Good luck with whatever you pick