I agree, having shot a bit of 'heavies' - IMHO 162 is about the high end, for most 7/08s, lest one have a longer barrel, and set up for it specifically, and in that case the 280 and AI as well as other cases that size or larger would be preferable to get the speed needed for trajectory. If not over 400 yds, I would not use over 140 myself on deer sized game. Even a good 120 BT or 130 Speer will get it done, perhaps not as ideal.
Just me, but on Elk or longer shots, a 150 BT, or 162 would be good. If in open country and IF many shots were say 300-500 for the OP, and on deer, I would try Berger 140s, a softer bullet is no big handicap on broadside shots on deer at reduced speeds on longer shots. The 140 BT and AB would certainly be 2 top choices for me. I know what a 140 BT will do from a 7 TCU handgun, around 2000 fps impact on deer. It works. Expands and penetrates. Run that thru a calculator to see how far your 7/08 with 2850 or 2900 will give you.......
The 7/08 was designed around a 140, personally I think a 150 betters it, and if accurate would run a 150 BT over 140s or 162s, that said the 140 AB is where I would start with any 7/08, for game thru Elk. A 150 PT would perhaps be a hair better. Shot placement will decide more than bullet choice with today's 140-162 class hunting bullets. I tend to pick shot placement on bullet construction and anticipated impact speed. Monos like higher speed and bone helps peel them back. Softer bullets like an SST or BT are better for lung shots and longer distances IMHO.
Many GOOD options to choose from.....
Last edited by 65BR; 01/02/20.
