Given the choice between the 7MM Mag and the 338, I would take the 7 Mag. I would not consider it for grizzly hunting or Polar bears but since the 270 has taken those animals, I quess the 7 Mag would to. I like the 280 better than the 7 Mag but the final choice will have to be yours. I never noticed a lot more recoil from the 338 than I did with the 7 Mag. I went through five seven Mags trying to like them. Never happened. though.