The 300 Wby is my every day hunting rifle. I have the synthetic Vanguard as well. Mine has a Leupold VariX-II scope on it.
The recoil is a good amount more than a 30-06, but won't be any more than a 3.5 inch 12 gauge shotgun shell. Probably similar to a slug gun.
I handload - and you will soon, too