Dogger
Part of the answer is way more hunters DON’T handload than do.
In factory form the 7-08 is nearly = to the 280 so...
Obviously us handloaders can make the 280 live up to its potiential.
I’ve never owned a 280 BUT if I had bought a 280 before a 270, I’d probably not bought a 270.
IMO as a handloader, if you own a 270, you have a 280 and vice versa.
Jerry
I think those two reasons nailed it.
I think people also prefer a handier rifle for hunting. I have a 25-06 that is my favorite rifle but
if there was a mass produced 257 caliber based on the .308 case, I would buy one.
^^ THIS ^^
With the .25 and .27 calibers mired in 10" twist BCs ,
These caliber bullets aren't going to get popular in much longer & higher BC configurations anytime soon.
It just seems natural to chamber them both in the .308 case, and 2.8" magazine
Neck angles could be adjusted to 30 degree "improved"
.25-08 and .27-08 are naturals for hunting ranges, where the .260 is doomed, by the length & market strength of the 6.5 LR Bullets; and the short action 2.8" magazine.
