The recoil from a 45-70 or .444 handload in a lever gun will definately get your attention. If you were going to use it for moose or large bears, I'd say it'd be perfect. But, in my opinion, for deer or black bear, it's overkill. There's nothing wrong with a .30-30, or optionally, a .35 Remington. If you go with a Savage, a 300 like '99er said, or a .308 would be great. Much flatter trjectory, easier on the shoulder, lots of reloading options, fun to shoot. With the .35 Remmy, you can handload light lead pistol bullets and a pinch of pistol powder for squirrel hunting or off-season practice. I've got a .32 special that I've done that for years. When my "bunny" loads are on at 25 yd.'s, my deer loads are on at 100.