Right, this is the reply I got from the gunsmith re #208.

" #208 is a “slab sawn” blank, which is cut from the log at 90 degrees from blank # 207, which is a “Quarter sawn” blank. The straight grain is still there, but is seen from the top and bottom of the stock instead of the sides. This blank will be very strong and I would put it on any of our Big Bore rifles. #208 will make a stunning stock and will be dark with good contrasting lines."

Think I will go with the 208!