I am currently desiring (translated as "needed" or "requiring") a big bore. I would prefer a 416, although will never likely hunt elephant or lion, so the 375 would likely be fine.
I really like my savage rifles. Mine and my wife's 7-08s will put bullets inside of previous holes at 100 yards, and my 300wsm will shoot inside an inch. I like Savage, though I never hear anyone else with a Savage big bore. don't know why.
I also want stainless synthetic. I love the looks of the african rifles with the wood and black barrel, but plan to hunt in alaska/BC and want the ss/syn instead.
This leaves me looking at a savage or a ruger.
The Savage Bear Hunter comes in a 375 as the largest offering.... BUT I talked with my gun shop yesterday and he inquired with the rep and they can easily substitute a 416ruger barrel on the bear hunter.
Questions:
1. What reasons are there why many folks don't buy Savage in a big bore?
2. When brown bear/grizzly and cape buff are the likely only hunts I will do that require a big bore, is the 375 or 416 the better choice?
