The rifle action/style you choose would have a lot to do with what I'd pick. If you're looking to use a short I'd go 7-08 hands down. Look at the numbers on that cartridge; it sells itself.
The 257 Rob is a favorite of mine and would work on a short action too.
If you're doing an intermediate length Mauser action I'd go 257 Rob, 6.5x55 or 7x57.
