Here is the situation. I have a cousin who owns/operates a guide service in Alaska (www.italio.com) He is looking for a good bear gun. Here is what he has right now:

- Remington 870 12 guage
- Springfield '03 30-06
- SKS
- Taurus .44 Mag 4" revolver
- 10/22

So this is what he told me. He wants something that is a decent step up from 30-06 which he uses to hunt moose for use as a bear defense. Here are the specifics.

- Somewhat compact (easy to carry/transport) while riding a four wheeler
- Primarily for Bear-Defense but possible double duty for hunting.
- Budget minded.
- Common caliber that is available in the backcountry of Alaska or can be ordered in quanitity ans stored for at least a couple years in relatively wet conditions.

I don't know a lot about balistics other than .223 and .308 but here is what I was thinking.



Marlin Guide Gun with the shorter barrel in 45-70. Thoughts? Opinions?

Take off the front sight so it'll hurt less when the bear shoves it up his a$$.


Seriously, the Stainless Guide Gun in 45-70 would be my choice.  Fast handling, accurate, hard hitting, and rock solid reliability.