if bears are on the menu, I'd go for the 338... WM or RUM, I don't care, just a 338!

stainless win 70 in 375 h@h. that sounds right nice. wish i had a reason to need one
woofer

It sounds like the decision has already been made, but I'll throw my $.02 in here anyway.

The 30/378 is certainly the bad boy of the bunch, but unless he's a handloader, I'd avoid it like the plague. Trust me, I own one. You will have a hell of a time finding factory ammo for it, and at atleast $80 a box you wont want to shoot it often. Even if you handload it like I do, it's pretty damned expensive.

If it were me, between the 30 cals. I'd probably go with the 300 RUM. The reason being that the guns are reasonably priced, you can get them with a heavy barrel (or without), plus all of the aftermarket goodies available for the 700's like triggers etc. that aren't available for the Wby. There's not a whole lot of difference between the stocks on the wby and the Remington but it depends on which models you're comparing.

I'd comment on the Sako, but my experience with them is limited.

Anyway, if he does go with the 338, I'm sure he'll be pleased with it. My 338/378 is my favorite rifle for everything.

Like Kingfisher said...30RUM would be practical, if you really want to stick with the 30's.
IIIIIII just can't do it. Its a fun question,but...brown bears twice in 10 years. Get a biggie for that. Brown bears are at least $10,000. For a chance! I'm sure a 30 will do the job. Hell, their is probably someone out ther that can get one with a knife.A bear hunt is a good excuse to get another gun. Do it man! Getting another gun will make you feel good about yourself. If you can spend that kind of money on a hunt like that. Gear up! Leave the 06 at home....
Glad I got that off my chest.