I own both 338-06 and 30-06, both right at 8 lbs all up. The 338 with 200gr bullets recoils more, a lot more than 30-06 with 180's. In fact my 300 WSM with 180's seems to have less recoil than the 338-06.

Most people don't really want the truth.

They just want constant reassurance that what they believe is the truth.