Do you have any experience with shotguns? The reason I ask is that having a knowledge of how to handle recoil could influence your decisions on caliber. As long as you aren't hunting anythin bigger than deer I would recommend nothing bigger than a .270 or 7mm-08(.243 up to .270). They will do everything a 30-06 or 7mag will do (on deer sized game) but with a LOT LESS recoil. That could make a BIG difference in your effectiveness and confidence. New shooters tend to be somewhat sensitive to recoil.