Most people use a lot more caliber than is necessary to get the job done. In the last few years I have been using a 7x57 Mauser and love the low recoil and it has taken 4 deer, and a cow elk as well as several coyotes. My primary caliber has always been a 270 Winchester but frankly the recoil even from that is twice what the 7x57 feels like. I use 140 gr SP chronographed at 28oo fps. This load is good for out to 300 yards and frankly I never have had to shoot any game past that distance. The belted magnums are pretty much over rated and if you don't believe that get a chronograph and check them yourself. Also the 7x57 killed more elephants than any other caliber but with a 175 gr military bullet. If you don't handload get a 270 and use 150 gr. bullets. I prefer 130 gr. The largest hog I ever shot was with a 223 when I was squirrel hunting. Rember shot placement is the most important aspect in any hunting.