Still have them up to .300 and 7mm mag. Muzzle breaks are incredible things.

Osky

Just as long as you don’t get a 6.5 Creedmoor.

That thing can’t kill anything.

Nieces husband took up hunting in his 30's. Needed a "proper" deer rifle so his grandfather bought him a 30-06. First shot promptly taught him to be gun shy and gave him a permanent flinch. Not sure he ever really sighted it in past a few shots to see if he could even hit the paper. He was very proud of that rifle, but at same time, was afraid of it. But he did kill a few deer with it when they were close enough he couldn't miss. He went several seasons without killing anything. Just enjoyed the rest of the hunting part more than shooting that rifle.

Modern era replacement for 243 win is 6mm Creedmoor. NOT 6.5.......the 6mm. Think of it as a souped up 243. Launch a 100 grain plus bullet at 3,100 fps plus and you have a highly effective deer killer.

Really consider a suppressor, Tames recoil a lot, cuts way down on the noise, At 76, you deserve to treat your self. Shooting will become an enjoyable pastime.

I would buy a browning bar 30-06.will be a lot less recoil.Its what my wife shoots and she is sensitive to recoil.She can shoot this gun all day

I think 243 gets a little light for some larger animals but 308 and 7mm-08 can do about anything

suppress it I think you will really like it

I started with loudening , using a brake , loved the recoil and watching the impact through the optic.

having gone suppressor recently , it's nice

you can order today from silencer shop and they will process Jan 2 when the tax is reduced to zero and not 200 dollars.

If recoil is a problem get yourself a lead sled for zeroing your rifle in. I zeroed my 300 WSM in with the sled wearing just a t-shirt. I never noticed any recoil when I was shooting at an elk with heavier clothes on. Same holds true with my 06 that I use for deer.

Suppressors are worth it! They make a huge difference in recoil. If elk are still in the realm of possibilities I say 308 (especially if suppressed) or 7-08. I think 260/6.5cm would be a sweeter shooter and more fun carry for deer. But I wouldn’t wanna shoot it at an elk without throwing copper bullets in em.

Wont find a finer deer cartridge than a .30-30 or a suppressed bolt .243

I LOVE my 25-06. It has HALF the recoil of a 30-06, but great knock down power and great trajectory. I know you said you are looking for a short action, but if you run across a 25-06, I wouldn't hesitate to pick it up for the "recoil conscious" hunter.