I have short and long-action rifles. I would go with the 7-08, or 6.5 cm, just because I like short-action rifles better. I have shot lots of deer with my .308s, but they are sitting pretty quiet, since I got my .260 and cm. I have never heard anything bad on the 7-08, but have never shot one. Some of the heaviest-recoiling rifles that I have ever shot, were .270s. I am not recoil shy, but just have never had a desire to own one.

Bottom line, pick the rifle that you like and get the caliber that you think will fit your use. No bad choice in the real world.

You did not "seen" anything, you "saw" it.
A "creek" has water in it, a "crick" is what you get in your neck.
Liberals with guns are nothing but hypocrites.