At the recent SCI show in Coffs Harbour I talked with an outfitter about a bear hunt in the Kamchatcka Peninsula of Siberia. He recommended a .338 or similar calibre but a .30-06 would be OK. During the discussion I mentioned if I did it I would plan on bringing my new 9.3x74mm Rimmed double for the hunt. To which he advised not to bring it as due to the wet conditions and cold a double might be difficult to use (open) as it could freeze up. A rifle with the camming power of a bolt action was required.

As Kamchatcka is similar to Alaska I was wondering if our esteemed American double rifle users could share their thoughts and actual experiences in this matter. Any special treatment of the rifles to stop them 'freezing up'? etc

I do prefer a 9.3mm for big brown bears compared to a .30-06. The rifle will be a clunky Tikka U/O which I have still yet to see (its still in Customs !!!!)

Also note I haven't booked a hunt but am just prospecting. Alaska or Canada would also be nice if and when I could afford any of them.