30-30 medicine gun

[Larryjk]

Yukon Girl, You might consider looking at the Marlin 336 in its various forms. It comes both in 30-30 (which you can find anywhere) and 35 Remington (which may be an ammo supply problem). I have heard that the 35 Remington is popular among guides in the Canadian territories and they cartainly are a reliable and proven design. They have been around a long time.
The 30-30 is very versatile but the 35 would be better for savings your buns in bear country. If bears were the only consideration, get a Marlin in 45-70.