I started out using a pre 64 winchester feather weight 30 '06. It was a great gun for a kid so you might look at what feather weight models are out their. I use a 7mm mag now and it is used for dual purpose deer and elk. I liked the flat projectory with this caliber. It is a lot heavier than that old feather weight. The 270 has a really flat projectory also and a lot less gun. If recoil is a problem look for a used semi auto as some of the recoil will be taken up in the action but they do get a little spendy.