I shoot a Rem 300 ultra mag and I dont consider the recoil that bad. Its is more than you need for deer size game but still not a bad choice. I hunt white tails in florida with it, but also have taken large boar as well as blacktails. Stops them dead in their tracks. With the right bullet, meat waist is not an issue. The price and availability of ammo should be considered. If deer is your primary game then maybe go with something like a 7mm 08. Just my opinion for what its worth.