y opinion i think the 06 is the way to go.. i am 16 and shot my firsat deer last year with my 06 ad i only weigh 125 lbs.. i am no tworried about the kick and my gun is a bolt action which usually kicks more.. the kisk is fine.. just adds to the fun and wit an 06 chances are that the deer wont run when its shot.. my first deer (a big doe) shot with my bolt action 06 ( i only had 1 shell in the gun) dropped on the spot when i shot it.. it didnt take one step.. if you dont wanna track a deer after you shoot it use an 06.. it isnt really over kill if you soot it in the right spot.. its a great gun i recomend an 06 for a first gun