Either of your two guns will work great. I have taken 6 bears, the last 4 were taken with my 243 using Hornady 100 grain Whitetail ammo. Not one of them went over 40 yards. I did take one bear using my .375H&H with 300 grain TSX ammo, and it too ran only about 40 yards. Big thing is just put...
When I placed my order, January 29th, I never asked how long, but as I was leaving Melvin said he was out 5 1/2 months. I hope that will be the case, but from everything I see and read I will not be shocked if it takes a year or longer.
I stopped in to Melvin's shop this past Friday and ordered my first rifle so I cannot give you any feedback. I can say that after handling several he had on hand, I was impressed and am excited to get my rifle!!