I have both the 280AI and several '06's. I like both cartridges.

I like 7mm's I have or have had, 7mm-08, 7x57, 280's (& a 7mm Express), 280AI, 7mm RM's. 7mm TNT, 7mm TCU. If I had only one 7mm, it would likely be the 280, but 7mm-08, 7x57 and the 7mm RM's are very nice cartridges too.

I have more 30's than 7mm's.

If I were to have one rifle it would be a 30-06. If I were stuck with one bullet and one gun it would be a 180 Grain Nosler Partition in a 30-06.

But a 280 or a 280 AI or a 7mm RM with a 162 grain Hornady or 150 grain Partition would work very well too.

None of these cartridges have significant recoil - very mild recoil in fact. And unless you're thinking of shooting 400+ yards, the trajectory doesn't much matter. And If you're thinking 400+ you might want something more powerful such as a 300 Weatherby or 300 Winchester or something bigger.

I prefer classic.
Semper Fi
I used to run with the hare. Now I'm envious of the tortoise and I do my own stunts but rarely intentionally