I chose the Chapuis in 9.3x74R, and i think it was the right choise. Perhaps getting it would take you to take the next step, and allow you to learn to reload your own ammo??

I've spent a lot of time hunting brown bear, what bear may be in your future? If it's a blk., then the 30-06 is more than enough, but if it's a brown, i'd forsure go with the 9.3, as i consider a "properly loaded" 30-06 my personal mininum for big bears, and a properly loaded 9.3x74R to more than enough for the job.

DM