I've heard that detatched retinas with hard recoiling rifles is not that uncommon. Of course there are a lot of factors that weigh in to it, but it does happen. I am not recoil shy, but on the other hand, I see no point in punishing yourself by shooting more of a rifle than is necessary. I guess I am of the opinion that many people are overgunned for the game they are hunting. I can see using big, heavy recoiling calibers for African dangerous game and maybe large bears, but for the 99% of the rest of us who go after deer, black bear, elk, etc.... calibers in the 30.06 class or smaller are more than adequate...