Since you factored in bigger game and long range shooting chances I would also lean towards the 300. However you mentioned being a bit wary of recoil, so no matter how big if you can't handle the gun it then becomes useless power. If you can try shooting a 300 to see how you tolerate it, would be the best. If not of the ones you mentioned I would lean toward the 06' if recoil will pose a problem. I would add another one into the mix, that being a 280 rem. It will chuck bullets large enough to take on moose or elk in the .284 diameter(same as 7mm), it will shoot flatter than the 06' for open/long range shots and pack about the same recoil as 06'. The 280 is an excellent choice for an all arounder with lots of selection in bullets and less recoil then it's mag. brother. With todays bullets you don't need to buy a 30 cal to hunt elk or moose, just match your game with a premium bullet and send it home. Either way you must be comfortable with your choice and be able to handle it! In the end a bigger gun does not make up for poor shooting, the smaller adeqaute gun with a confident shooter will win that battle everytime.


Best of luck!