SC,
I'd just stick with the '06 like you planned. He has one ready for you. I don't think the recoil is going to be an issue for you. I've never shot an '06 that only weighed 5.25lbs or whatever that thing weighs, but once you have a scope on it it'll weigh a little more. I don't see that recoil is going to be a problem here.
-Jake