Yes a 243 will have plenty of power for what your wanting to hunt. Very mild recoil. The 270 will have noticable more recoil; the a 243 but its still a mild recoiling rifle. I have to agree with Folically Challanged and try different rifles and calibers. Im a big fan of 30-06 and the Magnum cartridges but for what your wanting to hunt a 243 is plenty. Actually a 22-250 would work but i would try to stay away from anything smaller then a 243 until you get alot of practice and know your going to hit where you want every shot.