actually i think if you handload the 7-08 is the choice because ammo is not as popular, plus a 120 gr nosler bt at 3200 fps is poison.

If I handloaded I would without a doubt go with the 7mm.Not because I think it's any better than the 308 but mainly cause I never own a 7mm rifle.

308 for sure. I have both and both are great choices however i can go anywhere and get 308 rounds for $16. 7mm-08 around $33 and limited choices. I like the bigger heavier bullets you can get for the 308 as well. Perfect for deer, black bear etc... and the 308 recoil is very easy on the shoulder just like the 7mm-08 IMO.. so +1 on 308.

You have to do some serious nitpicking to come up with any significant differences between the two that aren't mostly in your imagination.

Since you have a 243 I'd go with the 308, only because it allows the use of heavier bullets.I had 308, 260 rem ,and 243. Finally sold one, knew I wanted to keep the 308 for the heavier bullet option,but to decide between the other two, I flipped a coin.
Alex

I'd go with the .308 for 2 reasons ...
1. Availability of ammo just about anywhere
2. As aaalaska said, since you already have a .243, the .308 will give you a wider spread of bulllet weight options. The .243 will go from 70 grain balls to 105 grain. And the .308 can cover from 100 grains to 200, with the sweet spot in the middle. Gives you pleanty of spread.

But, if you handload and have an itch for a .284 bore, then get what you want. The 120 grain to 175 grain balls the 7mm/08 wil spit will get your hunting done just fine as well.

Thanks for all your input guys it is appreciated!!!!! What your all saying about the availibility of ammo for the 308 is true. None of the big box store by me have 7mm08,I can find it @ one of the gun shops on L.I.and his prices are reasonable.

I opted with the 7mm-08 just because its different and it does have a little less recoil than the .308 Rifle.As several stated You can find the .308 ammo much easier and have more choices in grain/bullet weights!


OK...are You getting a Browning or a Wichester Rifle?.....I love the Browning A-bolt Hunters and have one in a .243 caliber...one nice looking Rifle and very accurate too!

I just went on midways website,either one would pickup where the 243 leaves off.243 goes from 55g-105g.the 7mm goes from 110g-175g with the 120g-150g being the most popular for the 7mm08 from what I've read.
So like most of you have said I guess you can't go wrong w/either one. Back to the coin toss!!! LOL!!

Going to Cabelas this weekend to compare them side by side then I'll decide but I'm a favoring the model 70 a bit more.