One 45-70 option I never see mentioned in threads like this is the Siamese Mauser conversions.... I've shot one, they are quite nice.
Recoil wise, if you spend a bit on some reloading equipment, you can easily load lighter loads for having fun and enjoyment as well as shoulder wreckers that are only safe in the No1 and T-Rex rated 1895gs
If you don't spend some money on reloading stuff, recoil still won't be an issue because you won't be shooting it much unless you like paying $2.50 per trigger pull (you can reload for less than half that).
