In essence much depends on the owner’s ability to either reload or not. If comparing 6.5 Creedmoor, 7mm-08 Rem, or 308 WCF to a non handloader, the 6.5 Creedmoor and 308 WCF are way out front. The 308 WCF outstrips the 6.5 Creedmoor by quite a bit when you can buy 125, 130, 150, 155, 165, 168, 175, 178, 180 and 185 grain loads over the counter with several multiple bullet designs. The 6.5 Creedmoor has several bullet designs as well but less varying weights sold over the counter.
If a handloader, all three can be made to serve on 90+ percent of game pursued. The choice would be on how often large game (700-1300 lbs) is pursued. All three are fairly the same on game at 400 yards (6.5mm 140 gr, 7mm 150 gr, 7.62mm 165 gr), except wounding with a bigger bore and heavier .30 caliber 180 gr, or even 200 gr bullet load can offer some advantage on large game like elk and moose at or inside 250 yards. Obviously if you’re looking at 600 yard shots the 6.5mm and 7mm would be easier on wind drift, however with today’s technology in ranging, doping and scope use the 308 WCF is plenty capable. Beyond that the 6.5mm and 7mm are superior on paper and easier to make hits with.
All three behave well for bullet expansion due to impact velocities when compared to magnums. They offer speeds that balance well on bullet resistance, expansion and penetration using several types of bullet designs.
All can be loaded down with hunting hand loads and bullet weights giving 13-18 ft-lbs recoil level. The chosen chamber really depends on what you intend to predominantly use the rifle for.
