I lost 40 pounds over about 9 months and other than my knees don’t hurt like they used to, I can’t really tell any difference. But, I definitely tell when I carry my 12 1/2 pound 7 mag vs the sub 8 pound 7mm-08

I sort of thought that. I lose weight and somehow find it again.
If I take up mountain hunting I won't be able to take beer in that might help.
With a healthy appetite for lollies, chocolate, cheese,salami and good food I need to be careful to make better choices.
Neither my brother or I are big! , But both realise we should easily be 20lb lighter. His knees would benefit for sure. He's to young for replacement and he's lucky he's office based these days cause he has dicky knees.
I like 7mm-08, it's a great little Round.
I have used a 7mmRm and own a .300wm, I opted to build a .280ai a lightweight build on a Tikka action.
Now to Hunt harder.
My decision on .280ai was after a few suggested it I read enough to convince myself it's the right choice coupled with my admiration of the 7mm calibre.