Considering the OP, said he isn't going to shoot past 300 yards, won't even try it. "Flat shooting" rifles don't even have to be considered. Hell, why not just go with 30-30? i mean it's only been around since the 1800s, killed as many if not more critters than a 06, with much less recoil. It's nowhere near as sexy as the newer offerings, but there is minimal recoil, good to over 300 yards (doesn't matter in this case), ammo is cheap and everywhere. And for shìts and gigs, it's fun and feels kind of traditional deer hunting with a Marlin 336 lever.