Do you reload? I had the same problem with my father many years ago with his Win. Model 70 in 30-06. I loaded some 125 gr. Sierras for him that shot real well at a slightly reduced powder charge. He was happy with that until he thought now the gun is too heavy. I got him a Rem. 700 ADL in .308 Win., and did the same thing. He hunted with that gun and killed deer with it until he had to quit hunting at age 83.

Just something to consider, and the 7mm-08 with 120 gr. Nosler Ballistic Tips would be an excellent choice for deer. He could move up to the 140 gr. Accubonds for elk. That caliber is a sweet-heart for the recoil-shy to begin with...