Well this is getting to be an interesting discussion.  All large 3D programs have large learning curves so it will be a while before you really are up to speed on Max or C4D. I think another approach is get one big program and a few differnet modelers so you can find a way to model things to fit your workflow. Get Silo or Mondo download wings and then model there it is a bit easier and then learn rendering rigging in C4D or Max.  You have to look seriously at what you want to do with it too.

The wit of a misplaced ex-patriot.
I cheated on my metaphysics exam by looking into the soul of the person next to me.