Need advice on light a light recoiling hunting rifle!

[MagnumManiac]

I have a Weatherby Vanguard in 223 for the wife, she hates recoil.
Also have a Sako L461 Vixen in 222 that she tried to take off me, and another Sako L461 Vixen in 222 Mag. This rifle doesn't get used very much as it was ordered in 1959 for a customer here in Australia that never picked it up, it was in it's original box until I bought it in 1988 hidden in the back of the store I worked in. It had been forgotten it was there.
She now has a Rem 700 SPS in 7-08 that she is starting to get used to, it's a bit snappier than my other rifles and she forgets she has to hold onto it firmly.
With light bullets, a brake and mild loads, I think you should be able to manage a 7-08.
I went through 2 shoulder surgeries and was able to start shooting again with my 22-250 with a little discomfort due to not being able to raise my arm at 90° to my body. This has not changed.

Cheers.

 

[dougduey]

They are a lot of fun, low recoil, very accurate, easy on the reloading components, and actually a lot more lethal than one might think in the field.
Obviously, there are many other light-recoiling small calibers out there, just not as light, in recoiling, in smaller rifles... and near none in a rifle like mine. Kinda like watching TV when you pull the trigger, motion steady screen. Cheers

That's awesome. And I thought I was done buying rifles for a little while. You just gave me a new project. Thanks

 

[436]

That's awesome. And I thought I was done buying rifles for a little while. You just gave me a new project. Thanks

Done buying rifles? Nope, the one that dies with the most is the winner!

 

[BenelliHunter]

I built a 6 Creedmoor for my 8 year old. It only has 7 FT Lbs of recoil BEFORE putting a suppressor on the gun. He has always ended up with a black eye but this year has killed three deer so far with no issues and no felt recoil- fYI he is only 44 lbs.

 

[Fedwell]

My choice would be either a 6 creed. or 243 with 70 Hammer Hunters

 

[Chas1]

I'd take one of your moderately recoiling rifle and put a brake on it otherwise as others have suggested maybe a 223 or 243. Hope you heal quickly.

 

[fxdwg03]

I have a Tikka T3 in 6.5x55 Swede and there is no recoil with a 140 grain bullet. Have killed deer, coyotes, and hogs (300 lb. Boar) with this rifle.

 

[Micahrn]

I recently had surgery on my neck and I'm going crazy not being able to get out shooting! I have rifles from 6.5 CM up to 416 Rigby but nothing that I feel comfortable trying with my neck situation. My favorite two rifles for Hunting are my 7-08 and my 300wsm but those are out of the question for now. I have thought about possibly getting a 223 with a faster twist to be able to shoot 75-80gr. bullet. So if anyone has any suggestions please let me know.

Thanks, Alan

If cxp2 or 3, consider a .270 130 grain with boat tail ammo. I have bad shoulders, and use that, or a 25-06 with 117 or 120 grain load, both preferring Hornady or Remington cor-lokt. Well placed shot brings meat. The latter is the easiest on my shoulders. Another consideration for shorter distances is .243. God bless and heal you.

 

[gvjm]

I recently had surgery on my neck and I'm going crazy not being able to get out shooting! I have rifles from 6.5 CM up to 416 Rigby but nothing that I feel comfortable trying with my neck situation. My favorite two rifles for Hunting are my 7-08 and my 300wsm but those are out of the question for now. I have thought about possibly getting a 223 with a faster twist to be able to shoot 75-80gr. bullet. So if anyone has any suggestions please let me know.

Thanks, Alan

Try a muzzle brake. I have one in my 7 mag and it recoils less than my 308. I'd guess you 7-08 would be a perfect candidate. But you'll need hearing protection ever time you shoot it!

 

[dabouv]

I recently had surgery on my neck and I'm going crazy not being able to get out shooting! I have rifles from 6.5 CM up to 416 Rigby but nothing that I feel comfortable trying with my neck situation. My favorite two rifles for Hunting are my 7-08 and my 300wsm but those are out of the question for now. I have thought about possibly getting a 223 with a faster twist to be able to shoot 75-80gr. bullet. So if anyone has any suggestions please let me know.

Thanks, Alan

6.5 Grendel is mild and put that in ar platform and no kick at all. You will spend some money to get it really light but can be done. It has excellent long range ballistics and is far better than a .223 For hunting.

 

[Calhntr]

Take your pick and enjoy .243win, 6cm,
6mm dasher

 

[tim2446]

I was just talking to someone about the varmint version of that in 223. Either one should be great.

You may want invest into a suppressor the felt recoil is drastically reduced and your 6.5 might be your keeper. Someone local may have one you can try. The bad news is it's a about 7 to 12 months for the paper work. If you go that way order a 30 cal that way it will handle pretty much any round from 30 and down. Just a thought.

 

[Pinoniper]

Go find a 250 Savage and be happy.

 

[Russell Sonner]

6.5 Grendel would be my choice. Very light recoil, will easily take down a deer or even elk. https://huntingheart.com/6-5-grendel-hunting/