there are lots of great calibers for small folk. Calibers 243, 6mm, 250savage, 257roberts, 260, 7mm08. The 25-06 is a much more effective caliber than any of these, but is a 30-06 case necked down and does kick noticeably more than those I listed. Some shorter rifles I like are ruger#1s, remington 600's ,660's and model 7's.