The longest heaviest bullet you can seat in a 7-08 while fitting in a short action is around 140 grains (while not seating the boat tail to far into the case body). With the 7 SAW you can seat a 168/175 gr Berger and keep its pressure ring at/above the donut area of the case neck.
A 180 gr Berger of any flavor (VLD Hunting or Hybrid) would be a solid choice for your barrel length and twist. Have had zero issues stabilizing these with a 1:9" twist. In fact, have had decent results doing load development with 195s with the 7mag and a 1:9" twist, despite it being recommended...
I am going through this same process. If you are buying a factory rifle and/or buying factory ammo, 7 PRC is probably the way to go.
If you are going the custom route, don't overlook the 300 WSM in a medium or long action. Easy to tune cartridge if you are handloading. Ballistics of 300 WSM...
I've tried it in both my 25 Creedmoor and 7mm-08. Fantastic SDs/ES - but can't get the rounds to group. Have tried multiple seating depths too.
As others have said, it throws really nice out of the trickler - "so you have that going for you, which is nice..."
Just went through this my self. Check out the Fclassproducts full length sizing die.
https://www.fclassproducts.com/purchase/p_2672558/25-creedmoor-full-length-resizing-die
Alpha SRP 25 Creedmoor brass will give you good SDs, 6 CM brass (neck up with mandrel) will give you better velocity.
Anyone considering or have a 7 PRCW (7-6.5 PRC) for a hunting rig? Had always had my mind set on the standard 7 PRC with a short barrel (to shoot suppressed), but after seeing how easy the 7 PRCW is to tune and the results people are having - is it worth the velocity sacrifice over the 7 PRC...
Anyone know what the weight difference would be between a 20" Carbon Fiber barrel and a 20" steel barrel? I am assuming not much, but would be curious on a more detailed answer - obviously depends on the contour of the steel barrel.