Just put less powder in the barrel.I have never taken a deer with a modern rifle - traditional ML is the way I have spent 90% of my big game (deer, elk) hunting. Drew tags this year - the cataract surgery means I will be able to see. The blown shoulder might kill off the hunt, I have to go to the range and see how many tears I shed after pulling the trigger....
David
My Traditions Hawken Woodsman in .50 cal has no significant felt recoil with up to 70 grains of Hogdon FFFG.