Jason,
I think you made a good, well reasoned, choice. I started using a 7x57R in 1971 and have never regretted the choice. You stated you can reload the 7x57R with standard 7x57 dies, but with the correct shell holder. That is how I always loaded for mine. As I was loading 30-40 Krag, at the time, I opened up the 30-40 shell holder with a Dremel tool and used it. The correct shell holder won't be hard to find now. I had the best results with bullets 160- 173 grains and fairly slow powder( 4831). Newer powders may be better than 4831. When I started, I had to sort Berdan primed cases from Boxer primed ones, but you will likely only encounter Boxer primed ones. The American primers and bullets are proper so you will have no problems. Also, you will find the 6x42 scope is excellent in low light, I have a 6x42 Hensoldt on my favorite drilling and have complete confidence in it. Good luck, I hope you take a deer with it this year.
Mike
