I never had much of a problem with recoil being an issue. Usually if you are buying one of the superduper mags they are for longer range shooting, most of which would be from a rest, so I dont see how a heavier rifle would help you stay steadier on a rest then a lighter one. If you are shooting without a rest I cant see a big 300whatevermag being needed since I doubt most people can shoot offhanded to the distances you gain over the normal caliber.This may be one of those to each their own deals but the ultra light guns cost more which usually equals a better gun, their must be somethingfor most people if they are willing to spend an extrafew hundred bucks pluson them.

IMO--I dont think you can compare the ranges we need to shoot at while hunting to what are military shooters need to be capable of shooting at. So I dont think their choice in rifle weight changes what a hunter should have.