280 and 30-06 recoil shooting 150gr bullet is the same. If you want reduced recoil and a caliber that is effective on deer - look at 7mm-08 or 6.5x55 Swed. These would not be my first choice on Elk beyond 200 yards (especially beyond 300) but they will work with the right bullet put in the right place. Been there, done that as has a friend I hunt with.