re: .243 for deer?

I'd definitely look into a brake. Even an old decrepit fella like you can handle a .243 with a muzzle brake

I'm sure there's a gunsmith somewhere near you who can quote you a price on one. I imagine getting a plain jane muzzle brake put on is pretty cheap. I don't see how it could take him more than an hour or two.

Get a crossbow if you can afford to spend some money on one. No need to risk screwing yourself up over using a compound. With the cocking assist mechanisms they have on the market today, I imagine you'll be able to find one that'll work easily. Obviously, check with your doctor.

I should have kept that dog