Hi. Where you are matters. As I recall, Ontario requires a minimum of .45 calibre for deer. Not many of those around though. In any case, light rifle of any kind will have more felt recoil. 'Light' may not be a great idea if felt recoil is an issue.
"...traditional rifle..." Percussion? Inline percussion? Traditions makes a 50 cal percussion lock Hawken that weighs 7 lb 11 oz. and a synthetic stocked 50 cal that weighs 6 pounds. Epp's is a Traditions dealer.
The style of hunting makes a difference too. Weight doesn't matter much in a blind.