I had a 30-06 barrel for my Encore but after having rotator-cuff surgery, I traded it for a 308 and installed a Limbsaver pad and the difference in recoil is very significant. I realize that the downsized load made a difference, but I have the 12ga turkey barrel for the Encore and the Limbsaver pad does make a huge difference. If its deer only, go with the 308 or less. As long as the shot is where its supposed to be, dead is dead no matter what caliber you use.(as long as the caliber is within reason)