I think your question is a little vague from the start; the best 7mm hunting fund? Perhaps a little more clarity. Short range or mid range or long range?
If short to mid range you could easily use a the 7x57 with a CnC design or an old stalwart the 175 NP or a 175 Hornady RN. If longer ranges there are clearly other rounds mentioned by other members such as the 7mm RM with a more aerodynamic projectile at a higher velocity.
If I hunted primarily small to medium game as you indicated I would give a long look at the 7x57 with a heavy for caliber RN bullet design.
