I try to make objective based decisions, and really define the purpose. You mention steel out to 1700 and hunting elk/deer in the PNW.
Two very different objectives.
6.5 PRC, 7 SAUM and 300 SAUM/WSM are good options, but the rifle configuration will determine how much you like the rifle.
An 8lb WSM will be great to pack in the woods and put the hurt on elk, but would be a pain to shoot on steel all day. Sure a few rounds, walking out to distance is doable, but it won't be pleasant all day.
If your goal is to shoot more steel, and occasionally hunt, then you could build something around 10lbs and shoot the 6.5 or 7mm. Mild mannered on the range but manageable in the field.