Wants A Rifle With Mild Recoil

Q: I’m looking for a light rifle with a short action chambered for a cartridge with mild recoil for my girl friend. I’ve been told that both the .260 Rem. and 7mm-08 are modern counterparts of the 6.5×55 and 7×57 but faster and more powerful than the two oldies. Which one would you recommend for having milder recoil. Is there a better choice? I’ve decided to get her a rifle with a short-action because it is lighter and the bolt is faster to operate for a fast second shot.
Kevin Wilson

A: The only real difference between the .260 Rem. and the 7mm-08 is bullet diameter: .264 to .284. A deer won’t know any difference between a 140gn 6.5 and a 140gn .284. Both cartridges are based on the .308 case and on a short action, the 7mm-08 shooting a 140gn bullet is hard to beat, and the .260 too, is a deadly, light-recoiling deer cartridge. The old 6.5×55 and 7×57 require a standard length action and with good handloads can actually better the ballistics of the two “newies.” I’m not convinced about the supposed advantage of a bolt that’s 12mm shorter being much faster to operate. But if I was looking for a mild-kicking rifle in one of those calibres I’d probably choose the Remington Model Seven in .260 Rem.

Nick Harvey

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The late Nick Harvey (1931-2024) was one of the world's most experienced and knowledgeable gun writers, a true legend of the business. He wrote about firearms and hunting for about 70 years, published many books and uncounted articles, and travelled the world to hunt and shoot. His reloading manuals are highly sought after, and his knowledge of the subject was unmatched. He was Sporting Shooter's Technical Editor for almost 50 years. His work lives on here as part of his legacy to us all.