RE: bigger gun??
I shoot a .338 RUM in the Remmington 700 Model. It's a good, flat shooting rifle. I have gotten pass through consistently on caribou and the 1200 lb moose I took with the rifle since I bought it a few years ago.
It does kick, but it's not all that bad. I don't have a muzzle break on it, but I do have a pachmyer recoil pad. It's No worse than a 10 guage in my opinion, but I am also a big guy and avid weightlifter, so I have some extra padding. If you are one who really hates recoil though, I suggest a different gun. If it doesn't bother you, buy one, you WILL like it.