Here's my $.02. I have a Remington 700 in 338 Win. Mag. that I acquired rather recently. I have begun developing a hunting round for this rifle. I have spent hours at the range this spring working on a good hunting load set up. For sure this cartridge does pact a pretty fair recoil.
For me "heavy" recoil is an issue only while shooting at the range. I often use a 444 Marlin "Guide Gun" for deer and feral hogs. While this round is no thrill to shoot at the range, I have yet to even note the recoil on shots a game.
Muzzle brake = loud. For sure if you go that route wear hearing protection.