I'm building a 7x57. I've chosen a McGowan barrel in Shilen #1 contour, a 22-inch barrel with 1:9 twist, and nominal weight of two pounds. I will have my gunsmith install the barrel on a highly customized Mexican Mauser Action. I intend to use the rifle for hunting anything a 7x57 loaded to European levels can handle. That in mind I've decided to work with 160 grain bullets. For accuracy's sake I want the chamber throat cut so the bullet just touches the rifling. Throating will depend a lot on the bullet used. So, my question is which 160 grain 7mm bullet might be the best all around hunting projectile? Ballistics are important, but so is long term availability and other practical matters. All shots on game will be taken at 300 yards or less. I absolutely detest the concept of long range "hunting."

The Mexican action may interest you. The stripper clip slot is welded shut as is the thumb cut in the left receiver wall. It looks as if they were never there. The trigger guard has a hinged floor plate latched with a lever. It will get a three position side swing safety and set trigger before it is done.