Well...I'm probably going to get some hateful posts, but yes, I think I know which direction I'll go. I like Kimber, but unfounded or not, a lot of people have expressed accuracy problems with their rifles.
I'm not overly concerned about facing down a Wyoming grizzly with a .308 if I had to. I'm sure in the moment...nothing would seem big enough, but I wouldn't feel uncomfortable with a .308.
So the rifle that appeals most to me right now is the Howa 1500 Alpine in a .308. I don't care for the ugly ammo boost magazine, but I can get a standard, hinged floor plate. I would prefer a 22" barrel, but I can live with a 20" barrel. My plan is to mount a 4-12x40mm Leupold VX2 scope. It should be < 7 lbs complete. I don't mind the Mark V Ultralight either - just not quite as appealing to me.
Why would you get hateful posts, you asks for thoughts on the .308 as you said you were looking to purchase a Mountain Rifle, regardless of what anyone says or opinions offered in the end you have to be happy with your purchase, the rifle has to appeal to your eye and fit you when you shoulder it, the caliber you asked about is fine for what you described you needed it for.
308 is not my favorite cartridge but I've shot a few animals with it and it performed fine, I'm partial to faster flatter shooting cartridges but that's just me.
You can check the ballistics on any cartridge/bullet offering from a multitude of companies online, pretty easy to get an understanding of bullet performance (velocity/energy) from the muzzle and out to 500 yards and beyond, and what said bullet offering is designed for which animal.
I think as hunters nowadays were very fortunate with all the quality bullets offered in most every caliber.
Sounds like a great combination you have chosen for yourself, looking forward to pictures and a range report.
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