I've been shooting a 7mag for quite a few years and really like it. Several elk, caribou, mulies and whitetails and never had to follow a blood trail. Last year I was on a real tough high country hunt in NW Montana and thought about getting a good "lightweight" mountain rifle. I bought a lightweight .300 wsm and just love it. Still like my 7mag, but it's a bit heavier, although will still get used.

Regardless what you get, I HIGHLY recommend a SS / synthetic combo. Very practical weapon and will take the elements that will sooner or later face you in a hunt.