I agree with the feedback so far. I bought a Savage 114 American Classic in .300 win mag this year and plan to use it in a blind for longer shots during rifle opener. I have shot about a 120 shots or there about through it to break in the barrel and sight in. It has a laminated stock and fairly good weight. I also put a medium sized slip on simms recoil pad over the paper thin stock pad and it has made a huge difference in perceived/felt recoil. I have been shooting 165 and 180 grns through it. It has a good kick, but I have gotten 1" groups out of it consistently and as long as I relax, no flinch of any sort.
Not the ideal gun fo whitetails and not close to my first rifle. There are many more appropriate calibers, but if you want to use it or have not choice but to use it, use it.
Practice, practice, practice....