I have to say that after struggling with a lightweight mauser 1909 in .300 win mag (WHICH MY GRANDFATHER BUILT UP FOR ME), I realized that I am a flincher. I can control it and hit thetarget but that doesn't mean it is any fun. It is downright painful to sight in.
I just bought a used savage 110 (WITH ACUTRIGGER!! FOR 200 BUCKS!!) in '06. It is much easier to hit withand I am old enough and man enough to admit I shoot better with it, because (AND ONLY BECAUSE) of the lower recoil. I will take this '06 elk unting this year. And for Oklahoma white tails, I may switch to a 7x57 or 6.5 swede, or even a 250 savage. IMHO, for the small OK dear, anything over 100 grains at 2400 fps would be fine IF YOU CAN HIT WITH SAID RIFLE!! I am uncomfortable shooting past 200 yards anyway.
So, although I still get excited when someone makes a new 3000 fps + super mini ultra small uber laser magnum, maybe I should just get good with a couple of hunting rifles for the serious work like hunting.
Plus the .22 LR is the coolest cartidge anyway.
okcmco