The 300 WSM doesn’t recoil anymore than a 30-06 to me. Less recoil from the short case.
Have you considered a 270 WSM? He’s a 700 270 WSM
Yes, that one is in the mix for consideration too. As is the 6.5 Creedmoor.
I like the added horsepower the .300 wsm will get me, if I find myself needing it. I don't really have that in the tool chest right now.
Too many choices