|  |     If you handload you can get a bit more power from the 
    .280 or .270, since they're both based on the 30-06
    case. The 7mm-08 is a necked down .308. 
    
    I shoot a 7-08 in a Remington Model 7 and it's a real
    compact package, only 38 inches long. (18.5" barrel)
    
    If you're going to a 22" barrel rifle there's no real
    advantage to the 7-08. It's at it's best in the short
    actions, the Model 7, Browning A-Bolt Micro-Medallion,
    Browning BLR, etc.
        
    The factory loadings for the 7-08 number exactly *two*,
    so plan on handloading unless the 140 gr. softpoint fills
    your needs. I don't know what the 120 gr. hollowpoint was
    designed for - a bit much for coyotes, too fragile for deer.
    The 270 and 280 have more factory loads available by far.
    Remember, the 280 is factory loaded mild, out of concern
    that many pump and automatics were chambered for the round.
    In a bolt action, it can be loaded to top velocities.
    Since all my hunting is deer in New England woods, the 7-08
    in a carbine is my choice. If I were planning to use the
    gun out West for Muley and maybe elk, I'd get a 280.
    
    Dana
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|  |     
    I own two of the 3 mentioned, my 7mm-08 is in a Browning A-Bolt
    Medallion,and my .270 is in a Winchester Featerweight. My father
    has the .280 also in the A-Bolt. All of the calibers are great
    with the most noted being the .270, but if your going to be hand
    loading start comparing all 3 before you make your choice. If
    your unable to handload check the market for availibility of
    differents loads in comparision of the game you intend on hunting
    with the choice caliber. Don't be swayed by what one guy tells you
    over another, I really don't think their are to many guys/gals in
    this file that own all 3 to do a comparison. In the last year I
    can recall a number of articles in various Gun Mags comparing all
    of these calibers against each other. A little investigation will
    go a long way.
    
                                                    Guy
    
    
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