RE: caliber or bullet weight
maybe a .270 kicks less than a .30-06, but same case i figure they're very close, also being a semi auto may reduce kick even more, but I could shoot my .270
Personally I feel especially in the field I can shoot any gun least to date, which goes up to a .340wby without a problem. I tend tot hink larger calibers are less accurate. But I'm of the belief big game, big gun, so for elk etc...I'd prefer a .300 or 338 mag...over a .270, course up close, or perfect shot no worries.
But i think if a person can be honest with themself that they cant shoot a magnum well, then there's little you can do. Big game, i say shoot the biggest thing you can thats animal appropriate.