The .338 idea doesn't sound too bad actually. But the problem there, is even with 4" off the barrel, that won't reduce the weight alot. But it is still a consideration. I am really leaning toward a 444 or 45-70. I suppose, with the right bullet, I could probably make a 250 yard shot. But I think, I would like to keep the gun open sighted. I took my .22 to the range yesterday, and ripped the scope off. I forgot how much fun it is to shoot a gun that way. There is more skill involved, and you have a rock-solid, reliable sighting system. My biggest concern, from day one has been scope reliability. I love the telescopic feature of modern optics. I hate resighting them when I fall. And I assure you, I fall. The smallest bump will damage them and knock them off. And everytime my rifles fall, they land scope side down. I'm thinking of a larger caliber lever, with a ghost ring rear sight. Or maybe, fibre-optics. I instaled those on my .300 and loved them. Also had them on a muzzleloader, they are awesome in the dark, thick stuff. I guess I could make due with something like that, and the larger hole in the end of the barrel is what you would call instant confidence. A Marlin, or Older winchester Timber Carbine would do the job. I'm not sold on the .450 Marlin yet, going back to ammo availability. Besides, I can get the same power from a good handload. I could go to a quick detach scope system too, which would be nicer for a little more range. What do you think?