If you want a low-recoil round, then get a 7mm-08 or a .308. I have a .308, and I love it, it doesn't recoil much too, and if you use the 180 grain loads, it'll be enough to take down an elk.

180 grains only recoils 17.2 lbs, or something like that. If you want to help reduce the felt recoil, you should lift weights, and benchpress at the gym. I do that, and it really helps.