Mainehunt, give me one more shot. How about a 35 Whelen? It's based on the 30-06 necked up. Your bolt won't need to be altered and brass is readily obtainable. You could design the rifle around a bear/medium African game type rifle. I think the 1917 has a classic look that would be right at home in Africa or at least give you the feeling of hunting lions right in your own living room.