The first deer I shot was with my father's Winchester 94 in 30-30. I use a 30-06 when I use a rifle, but that does not answer your question. I understand you becoming recoil sensitive as my dad has also developed this (no longer wants to shoot a 12 ga). If a person selects a 243, PLEASE choose the proper bullet and be precise in your shot placement. Some places do not allow the 243 due to problems with wounded deer. The 243 is not a caliber I would suggest for a new hunter as you cannot control all the variables like wind gusts and animal movement, and there is not much margin for error with this caliber. For a new hunter a 7mm-08, 30-30, 257 Roberts or Ackley Improved, or 308 might be a better choice.