Recoil concerns for new rifle

Question
Sid,
  I want to purchase a new deer rifle. I've developed quite a flinching problem over the years that I blame partly on using a 30-06 when I was a youngster. I want to know what is the smallest caliber (ie. lowest recoil) considered acceptable for whitetails out to 125 yds in open fields? I know the .243 Win is ok but what about the 22-250 or other similiar low recoil rifles?

Answer
Hi Robert,

You have this battle half won just by admitting that you have recoil issues. Many users refuse to recognize and/or admit this and as a result experience many problems.

I kind of hesitate to steer you towards a "smallest caliber/lowest recoil considered for whitetail" only because that is a relatively subjective matter.

Another issue to consider is what if you purchase a rifle/caliber as described and you want to shoot deer either at a longer distance, shoot larger species, or use the rifle on other large game such as Elk, Black Bear, etc.?

To answer your question directly........ I would not go with any caliber smaller than the .243  I can guarantee you that if you ask enough people you are going to find someone who claims they can/do shoot whitetail with a 22 long rifle ! So be careful about about said advise.

Another very practical option to consider would be to go with the 30-06 but use the new "low recoil" type cartridges in it. I've shot a 30-06 and 7mm. mag with said ammo and indeed the recoil reduction is very noticeable. You would then have a great "all around rifle" that you could shoot a wide variety of game/distances with.

Visit Remingtons website and read up on this ammo. You may find that you don't need to go with the smaller caliber/s to get the same effect that you are looking for.

Thanks for the question.
Sid Lark