I would go with a 6.5 WSM in about a 7 -7.5 rifle, put a limsaver recoil pad on it and you wont need a brake. If you're set on a brake, go 300 WSM or bigger. Why bother with anything smaller for hunting especially bear? No mtter what you choose, I would be real selective of LR shots on bears. Wouldn't want to be chasing and tracking a wounded one with the missus.
Good hunting,
Mark