If you go with a 300, get the 300 WSM. Better accuracy due to short bullet. Shoots the same ballistically, and kicks less. I've shot a 300 mag and a 300wsm in the same type rifle and the short mag kicks considerably less. A hrad kicking rifle will kill your long range accuracy in the field. The 300 win mag don't kick too hard, but why take anymore recoil than oyu have to? People kill elk with 7mm mags and 30-06's everyday.