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I worked as a biologist in AK. My boss, an old timer, used to do surveys on Kodiak. Never had a problem, several false charges every season, and was proud that he never fired a shot. Then, after 20 years, he had to kill two in one day. Fired from just a few feet away. Did it with a 30-06. Head shots. Amazing skill, or dumb luck.

I worked the streams in Chignik area on Native Corp land. Bears everywhere, but charges were very rare. I am convinced that 99% of cahrges are false charges. Bought a .416 Rigby to protect the bears. Didn't want to shoot until the last minute, as did the old timer. But didn't trust my shooting well enough to rely on 30-06 (or hand gun)head shot on a moving animal at close range. .416 will knock a bear down if hit in head, spine or shoulder blades.

Was your .416 Rigby a double rifle or bolt action? I don't think I'd trust my skill with a bolt action. I'd get so rattled I'd forget to chamber a second round. I would dearly love to be able to live in Alaska for about a year, with or without the bears.