Mainer, I'm in Sitka. You're right about the punch. I used a .375 almost exclusively for well over 10 years before making the switch. I cannot tell a difference except the rifle now holds six instead of four and weighs alot less. There are at least five guys here I know of who have switched over to the round. It's perfect around here. You can make 300 yard shots on deer and goats and then deal with a grumpy bear at five yards on the way out with the same load. A seven pound rifle for hiking, scouting, and fishing with enough power to handle any bear around is a true comfort. I can't wait to get this new stock all marked up!