I bought my 1st 7mm-08 in 1990, I think. A Rem 700 BDL, still have it.
I do remember when I bought it, most people were curious and didn't know what it really was or could do. Most people thought of it as either an underpowered 308 or a slow 243 and would ask ..Why?. I considered it a short action 270, but I wasn't sure if I was right until I used it....
When something is really good, you cant keep it a secret forever!