My personal test is if I can hold 3 shots prone. I believe that a rifle may be called upon to shoot from any position, and in the case of heavy kickers, prone is the worst case scenerio. Much has to do with stock design, my Ruger #1 .416 Rigby was a pleasure to shoot. I had a light Mauser X .458 which was less so, but still manageable. The only powerful rifle I currently own is a .375 Ultra, but this is my hunting rifle/bear gun, and it's what I grab when ever I run out the door regardless of intent. If I ever get into the .577 club I may need to find a new test.