I find the 7-08 vs 260 comparison interesting. The 260 140 grain Berger has a BC of .615. You have to go to a 168 grain in 7-08 to better that (.617). Given equal pressures, the 260/140 gives about 100 fps more out of equal barrels. Hardly a big advantage, but it seems that hitting over long distances gives the 260 a slight advantage. Considering recoil, a larger advantage. Thus the reason you see the 260 in competition and not the 7-08. The 260 is a pet of mine, but it seems that apples-to-apples, the 260 gives more for less. In addition, no animal that I would shoot with a 7-08 on purpose, could not be taken cleanly with a 260.
Anybody want to argue?
I think you've got a good point even though I favor the 7mm-08 and 162.
In the Precision Rifle Series, the 6mm and 6.5mm chamberings are popular with few if any 7mm-08 being used. Maybe the 7mm-08 has less "inherent accuracy" but my guess is that recoil has something to do with it.
Not sure I buy the 100 fps advantage with the 260 vs the 7-08 though. I think they are probably close enough to be a wash. The 7mm-08 does have the advantage in bullet weight, but with the added recoil. Two peas in a pod really.
Back to the PRS, in 2014 the 6mm Creedmoor was the most popular with competitors and the top 3 averaging cartridges were all 6mm per PRSblog... 6x47, 6XC, & 6mm Creed. The 6.5mm chamberings were close but the .260 wasn't as popular as the 6.5x47 or 6.5mm Creed. Indian or the arrow? We know the Indian has a lot to do with the results, but I find it interesting that the 6mm has become so popular with the PRS guys.
The 243 with 105 (or 6mm Creed, etc), 260 with 123 or 140 (or 6.5 Creed, etc), and 7mm-08 with 162 or 168 all seem to offer the most for the least. Just need to juggle the trade-offs... bullet mass, barrel life, and recoil.
A better question might be, "What gives more for less compared to the 6mm/6.5mm/7mm short actions?" Assuming relatively light hunting rifles, not chunks.
Jason
