Here's a good page comparing typical elk cartridges. http://members.tripod.com/~elkhunter2/rifle.html
Remember you can always load an 06, 7mm RM or 300 WM down for deer, but you can load a 7mm-08, 270 or 308 up only so far for elk. And if the elk loads thump your shoulder more than you like you can always install a recoil pad or muzzle break. Since you said recoil is a big factor in your choice consider the 7mm Rem Mag.
Remember you can always load an 06, 7mm RM or 300 WM down for deer, but you can load a 7mm-08, 270 or 308 up only so far for elk. And if the elk loads thump your shoulder more than you like you can always install a recoil pad or muzzle break. Since you said recoil is a big factor in your choice consider the 7mm Rem Mag.
