Remember that it is usually easier to download a larger chambering than it is to find the magic to make one go faster ... and the .338 WM is the flat shooting, knock'm flat caliber for everything but the biggest of NA bear.

If you're recoil sensitive I'd suggest the 338-06 or the 9,3x62.

My experience has also been that larger chamberings pushing heavier bullets going slower do much less meat damage than itsy-bitsy bullets traveling at light speed ... AND ... more often yield DRT hits.

I settled on the 30-06, blue with walnut stock. The other choice was stainless with synthetic. Thanks for everyone's comments.

tieoneon,

Excellent choice (you proposed no bad ones)!!

It will serve you well for many years to come.

Congrats