Seems like you are coming right along in your decision making process Vance. Whether you decide on the 45-70 or the .450 Marlin makes little difference. I think that you will be surprised how easy the Encore will handle if you have the barrel compensated and have that great rubber grip installed on the Encore. I do believe that the Encore will be better bear medicine. I am also glad that you decided to continue the use of gas checked bullets. I have not had any problems with their use in compensated handguns. Isn't this fun messing around with these choices. I love it.