RE: Barrel length- .257 Roberts and 7mm-08
 

Drilling-Man- Yes I will try to have the rifle built as light as possible. The reason that I decided on the .257 Roberts is because I already have a .30-06 and a .223 Rem, so the .257 falls right in the middle somewhere. I basically just picked the two out of the hat because of the many that I could have chosen. I just said these two when I was talking to the gunsmith the other day off the top of my head, and there is just something that appeals to me about these two cals. I do agree that the 7-08 is a better all around cartridge, but the .257 will fill the gap a little better right now.

RE: Barrel length- .257 Roberts and 7mm-08
 

I really like the balance and feel of a 23" barrel. You can give that a try as a nice comprise which may end up being just perfect for you.

RE: Barrel length- .257 Roberts and 7mm-08
 

In your case you are right the 257 Roberts fills your needs well. With your 30-06 and 223 the Roberts gives you a fine rifle for long range large varmit and a back up deer rifle. The Roberts is a fine deer cartridge out to 300 yards and good for Varmits as far as you can see them.