As I understand it your going to pound Nails in the Summer and run Traps in the winter,regardless of what rifle you get to shoo Bears away,it will most likely hang on pegs in your 12 by 16 Cabin. I would be more concerned with the one you’re going to carry on your line,as Art has said light is your friend. How will it stand up in and out of its carry scabbard,what are you going to do with it at night,leave it outside or take it inside.
You’re post reflect that recoil is not a major concern,I would take a few more pounds of recoil and shave a couple pounds off my rifle,especially if my Machine had a malfunction and I had to Snowshoe back to my Cabin.
Just a couple of thoughts, best to you in your endeavors.
