As has been said many times - Bullets matter more than headstamps!
I don't look at energy. Minimum impact velocity is what I am going for. I like 2000 fps as a max range limiter. Just my self imposed limit. I personally don't like to be at minimums for much...Lol!
That being said, the 6.5 creed factory 143 ELD-x at 2650 from the muzzle at 8000' is still going 1945 fps at 700 yards. Inside their minimum velocity of 1600fps I believe. Would be easy enough to spot my own shots with that combo too.
The factory 300 wsm 200 gr eld-x at 2750 , 8000', is still going 1998 fps at 700 yards....harder to spot shots with this combo unless you add a brake.
Finding the ammo and components has been the "fun" part though. Several people have mentioned to just find the bullets for the creed and run it. Doing "ballistic gymnastics" with the calculators is fun, but it boils down to more than that I think. As has been mentioned, impact velocity, ability to spot impacts, terminal performance, and ability to practice and then shoot when the time comes.
The .223 thread for deer, elk, antelope, bear, and moose might sway me to stay with a smaller standard caliber. Obviously with good bullets. It will be lighter and easier to carry, easier to shoot, cost less to shoot.....likely same type of terminal performance.
Obviously right now I have nothing but time on my hands......lol
Thanks all for your input!!