First of all, I would like to thank all of you who have taken the time to reply. It gladdens my heart that there are so many like-minded individuals willing to share their experience and expertise. Hunters truly are the epitome of the human spirit...

In regards to those who suggest the .338/06: I am very carefully considering this cartridge for my "rifle of a lifetime" but I am still very concerned about the amount of recoil generated by the round in a 7lb. rig. I have a VERY tender shoulder and I would hate to spend $2750 on a rifle that I couldn't shoot. I have already sold off a .300 Wby Mag and a .338 Win Mag because they hurt me too much at the bench for me to put in the appropriate amount of practice required to feel comfortable with each rifle. I think I should try and find some people with a .338/06 so I can shoot a few and see if I can tolerate the recoil. If so, I will happily follow all the good advice and chamber the rifle for this cartridge. If not, the 7 x 57 or the original chambering of 8 x 57 may end up being the right choice.

Hornet Man - Thank you especially for your thoughtful reply. I have given this gift a great deal of thought and respect, and there is indeed a great story behind the rifle (and a CZ Mod 29 that came with it). However, this rifle was given to me precisely because I am the one in our family who carries on the hunter's way of life. The Kentucky Colonel who brought the rifle home from WWII knew I would do the right thing and continue to tradition of hunting deer and elk (he did so in Arizona). I am expected to make this into an heirloom piece that will hopefully be handed down to many generations of hunters. By the way, my daughter is already quite intrigued with hunting, and she goes with me on a regular basis. She won't be shooting this rifle, though. I will get her one of her own.

Also, the riflesmith who will build the rig informs me that he would have no problem with making this a short-action chambering. Does this change anyone's mind?

Good Dogwork and Good Hunting