The 243 Win, 260 Rem and 7mm-08 Rem are all fine deer cartridges. The 243 Win only shoots a 100 grain bullet which makes some a little uncomfortable, but ever deer I have shot with a 243 got real uncomfortable in a hurry. It is a devastating round when put on target. The 260 allows you to move up to a 120 and if I am not mistaken a 140 grain bullet. I would imagine the 120 working the best and if a 140 grain, or even a 160 grain bullet is called for then the 7mm-08 is your rifle. Recoil will go up slightly with the 260 and 7mm-08, but they are all light provided the shooter is not ultra sensitive. I think the 260 Rem would be a very good cartridge to start with although I love the 7mm-08 and 243. It sort of fills the gap so to speak. I just hope it catches on and stays with us.