I would stick to something like a .243 or even a 30-30 lever gun. I have both a 7mm-08 and a 308 and the 7mm-08 kicks harder than my 308. As mentioned, way to many variables to consider. But both my guns are savage models. My 308 kicks less! I would say both the 7mm-08 and the 308 are not for someone recoil sensitive thou. 243 and get the job done on whitetail with no problem at all.