[axxe55]

i would say the the 458 Win. Mag. should be more powerful, but the 45-70 with the right load would be better as to it would be faster for follow-up shots if needed, than a bolt action.

 

[axxe55]

I'm with Axxe on this one, the .458 is the more powerful of the two rounds but the recoil and recovery time is also longer. The 45-70 will give you faster follow-up shots and isn't the ammo a bit cheaper and more available?

i would have to say that 458 might be regional, because if i wanted some it would have to special ordered. now i can find 45-70 in factory ammo in some places. never compared cost difference, but just guessing, i bet the 458 is more expensive.

 

[axxe55]

i too see where you're coming from. anytime you are in the woods where there are bears, you do become the hunted in a sense. i agree, that given the rifles in my collection, pretty much anything such as deer or any other game were to wander across my crosshairs wouldn't have much of a chance. pretty much why i have given up hunting and seldom ever hunt anymore, not really sporting as you said. i do enjoy shooting and have pretty much resigned myself to high powered accurate target shooting. i do enjoy getting as much accuracy as i can from a rifle.

i think the the 45-70 in a lever action would be the rifle that would suit your needs. plenty of power from a large heavy bullet, and with a lever action, easier follow-up shots if needed. the Marlin lever actions are stout, and you could load some very good bear loads to put those big animals on the ground.