I have a "custom" Encore in 300WSM and have killed SEVERAL deer, hogs, and coyotes out to 300 yards. I have used 150 gr BST's on all game so far and with great results, but I am considering a bullet change to fail safe or accubonds. My gun does not recoil as bad as my 270, BUT it has a 26"full bull barrel and weighs about 12 lbs. My 11 year old can shoot it comfortably in an extended range session and has killed 2 deer and a hog with it. It has been a great caliber for me.