I too scoured the Remington catalogs and ballistic charts, figured the best bullet weight options, speed, trajectory and energy, yes energy was still important in the 80's, I came up with the perfectly balanced rifle cartridge combo would be a Rem 700 ADL in 7mm-08.
Was at a local propane sales/pawn shop and saw a Rem 78 in .270 with a scope that looked like it had not had a box fired through it, bought it with my grass cutting, cow feeding money and have never looked back or had any regrets!
Over the years it got a new scope or two and an old school B&C plastic stock for $100 from Midsouth shooter's supply with the built in sling, still in the safe and still my favorite.
Ironically I've never bought a 7mm-08!
Mike
