Im a little late jumping into this, but I know a little bit about this rifles reliability. My dad has used one in 7mm rem mag here in Alaska for over 30 years now. It is the only gun he uses up here. However, he doesnt hunt brown bears. I told him that I wanted to get one in 338, he said that he wouldnt do that. His gun has had its share of problems and to just stick with a bolt gun. Mind you he hasnt had enough problems to want another gun, but he has had enough not to reccomend it to anyone.