I have had a 700 CDL ( matte finish barrel/action, with satin finish stock) in 7-08 for 4 yrs. now. It is one of the best out-of-the-box shooting rifles I've ever owned. It really came on when I started handloading for it. As far as the stock getting slippery when wet, I don't understand that at all. The stock is very well checkered and I've never had one bit of trouble with it. My action screws have never moved, nor has the wood compressed. If I had trouble like that with any gun, it would be sent back to the factory. I don't know how you compress wood using the required 40 in. lbs. torque on the action screws.
I feel that the 7-08 has better reloadability potential than the 260, but that is certainly a personal choice. Either round is quite capable of killing deer at the ranges you discussed.
Whatever your choice, good luck with your decision. I think you will find reloading a very rewarding adventure should you get involved. Lots of good info and help here..............