If you don't want to stay with those calibers, look at a Marlin Guide gun in 45-70.
I like the way you think.
I have one of these and also a .44 mag carbine, both are excellent for woods hunting. Loaded with (.44 Mag) 300 grain WFNs or 435 grain WFNs (.45-70), both are capable of knocking big holes in animals.
