There is a dude on another forum that loves to post about the virtues of the 7-08. And he has several pics of elk and deer dropped out to considerable ranges (500+ yards). Anyway, of the two you listed, I would definitely go with the 7-08.

I don't think a 25-06 would be well suited for a 20" barrel. Maybe a 22", but I think 24" is appropriate. The 25-06 is however an excellent cartridge.

The downside of a 20" barrel is going to be noise. Especially if you have a young hunter who might forget hearing protection, the noise will cause more permanent damage then one with a longer barrel.

Last edited by NWBlacktail; 12/17/16.