That actually makes a lot of sense. Thank you for taking the time to explain that to me. I had always been told that it was Barrel Burn Time that was important, that the best load was one that burned to completion just as the bullet exited the barrel. As I think about how many other variables get introduced into theory, I can imagine that such a situation would create very inconsistent shot patterns. I always appreciate good insight.Part of what's going on includes how much more "overbore" the case diameter/capacity is over the bullet. I can't really give you the exact science, but in concept the closer they are, like with .308, .35 Whelen, or .375 H&H, the more benefit you get out of quicker burning powders. The more overbore, the more benefit from slower burning powders.
Heavier or lighter bullets in that same cartridge might mean a little slower or faster burning powder, but it's not as big of a difference compared to when you take that same diameter bullet and put it in a really overbore casing.
That's why you generally find quicker burning powders in .308 Win than you do .243 win, or between .308 Win and the big .30 cal magnums. The more overbore, the more benefit you generally get with slower burning powders.
Bottom line: It doesn't matter how big the caliber is, what's at play is a ratio between caliber to case capacity. The closer the ratios between different cartridges, the closer their powder needs will generally be.