December 01, 2012 at 7:05pm
The 7mm-08 has a couple more pounds of recoil than a 243 which isn't much more. From about 10 pounds to 12.5 pounds or so with a little variability on if you use heavy bullets or the smaller bullets.
Compare those numbers to the 20 pounds of kick from a 30-06 to give you a reference point.
So in my opinion I wouldn't let the recoil be a factor. Availability of bullets is the only potential negative and they aren't that rare so I say go for it.
But I want to throw this out there. When buying a rifle caliber is only one of the factors to consider. We typically make it our number 1 priority when the other facits of the gun are actually much more important.
For example I will not buy a rifle or shotgun that doesn't have the safety up top where it is easy and quick on/off with the stroke of your thumb when the gun is on your shoulder. If it has a safety down by the trigger it isn't an option I would pass.
Also what action is it. Bolt, pump etc. That is a personnel choice but don't by a pump when you want an auto. You get the point.
Good luck, have fun.