Thats a tough question because there are so many factors that go into an elkin' rifle. How sensitive to recoil are you? How does the weight of the rifle effect you? Do you expect long or short range shots? My favorite is the 300 UM. Its very flat shooting and has enough power to knock down at elk at any range a competent shooter can reasonably hit.

For a teenager that varies greatly. I will stand by my opinion that a 30-06 is the minumum elk cartridge and what I started elkin with when I was 14. Theres a 7mm mag which I also used when I was younger.

As far as what a woman would like I can' t tell you cuz I' m not a woman. I suppose it' d be best if one of the ladies answered that question. Course I guess the guys could suggest what their lady likes and my lady shoots a 7mm mag with no problems. Shes a little gal too.