[taylorce1]

I'd carry the Sako, I'm sure it's faster handling and you can get it on target quicker than the Cooper. In a bear encounter you usually don't have a lot of warning, and the rifle that you can get an accurate shot off faster with can make a big difference. If you were purposely hunting grizzly or brown bears then the .300 Win is probably a better choice, but in this case I'd carry the .308 Win. Plus if there is any chance of a bear encounter your guide should be carrying a firearm as well.