I have been hunting sincei was 7 Have used the folowing 223, 243, 30-06 and then a 280 which i loved but was stolen. I like the feel of the tikka and like the look. I know 7mm is a good flat shooting calibur. If it is too much recoil for a light gun i would rather have something else for a rifle although i do like long flat shooting guns. I shoot a 3&1/2 12 gauge w/turkey shells but of course without a scope. Kick doesnt bother me too mucu but i want to be deadly out to 300.

Also considering the 270WSM but after reading your post i am leaning towards 7mm-08 since have heard nothing but good stories about it