7-08 vs 308

[GlennGTR1]

For an all around hunting rifle and something to practice long range field shots...in a short action standard caliber. Wich would you choose and why. Game would be Blacktail deer,elk, blackbear,cougar,and coyote with possible moose in the future. It has to be one of the above. 7mm has a slightly flatter trajectory 308 has heavier bullets. Wouldnt shoot heavier than 160s for 7mm or 168 for 308. So lets hear your thoughts.

 

[bheadboy]

i thought Either will do, until you mentioned moose, bear.

7-08 should be fine or superior on all until you get the shear bulk of moose, not knowing their size in you area i would think the 308 has an advantage for the bigger game, elk in wy die quite nicely from 7-08 as a 200-250yd gun. Moose tend to be bigger and tougher thus the 308 preferance for heaver bullets

Bear, depending on the weight and shear bulk might prefer the heavier 308 loads.

The 7-08 is flatter shooting but makes no differance if you are not shooting over 300.

Bob
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[CJ6]

Question,why are you limiting the 308 to 168gr bullets? If you have a 12 twist in the 308 you can go up to 190-200gr (if) round nose bullets are used, 185gr with boat tails. I would highly recomend the the 308 with a 180-200gr bullet for the Moose range of animals. TBBC,Swift A-Frame,Woodleigh Weld Core These bullets will all smash bone and give deep penetration ,mushroom and still stay together.

 

[necchi]

I have both, I really like the 7-08, it's just plain fun too shoot. The lighter bullets available are easy on you and the wallet if you want to do alot of practice.
I wouldn't hessitate to use it on Minn blackbear, but as said the moose could be an issue. You'd defenatley need a heavy premium bullet, TXS or Bearclaw or similar. The fact that those bullets are available in 284 makes it easy.
I don't feel the 7-08 is handicapped by it's parent in the least.

 

[cliffy]

If one handloads, both calibers offer great potential. We are not comparing apples and grapes here, but more like oranges and tangeloes. I'd opt for the .308 Winchester, but 7mm/08 can serve-up an equally deadly porportion of moxy. I see little difference here, if one handloads. Cliffy