Given that the barrel was toast, rebarreling it to 7mm Mauser is a very good idea. This will simplify any potential feeding issues that would otherwise arise if you tried to use a case w/a body taper significantly different from the original 8x57mm. Given the excellent 7mm bullets available and the plethora of suitable powders your rifle will give outstanding results on game in the woods and fields. And, if you don't handload, there are many many excellent factory loads available. With a bit of attention to the trigger and properly stocked, your rifle should be a real pleasure to use. Good luck. Sincerely. bruce.
" Unlike most conservatives, libs have no problem exploiting dead children and dancing on their graves."