texhookem

I own both, a 30-06 and a 7mm rem mag, both in guns that weigh about 8 1/2 pounds scoped out and all (remington 700 bdl and cdl). I notice maybe a tiny bit more recoil with a 7 mag than a 30-06 but it is very tolerable. If you dont mind shooting an 06, you can shoot a 7 mag. Now, on the subject of whether or not you need a 7 mag if thats what you want, go with it. It might be more than necessary for deer but ive never heard of a deer that was too dead, maybe a little bit more meat will be ruined but I guess thats what you gotta sacrifice for that extra "assurance" of using a rifle like a 7 mag or 300 mag or 30-06 for that matter. Its not gonna blow the deer up or anything, but there will be more a little bit more meat damag.