I have a similiar question. I am moving out west (Bozman, MT area) in a couple of years and want to get a good elk rifle in the works. I am looking for something under 10 lbs. Wildcat / standard does not matter much to me, just looking for suggestions. My smith suggested a 308 Baer (Randy Melvin / Bull Mountain Rifle Company). All suggestions would be appreciated. I don't know why but a 7 stw built on a BAT action has been sticking with me lately