I have had a Ruger Ultralite in 270 for about 20 years and killed a mountain of deer and hogs with it, but the recoil is pretty tough. I would suggest a heavier gun or a smaller caliber. I had put mine in the gun safe for good, but I decided to try a Simms pad on my gun last season which helps a great deal.I have never owned a 30-06, but I would hate to be behind a RL model in that caliber. Good luck with your choice of weapons and calibers.