Black bear hunt in Idaho

[LittleLebowski]

Would a Marlin 336 3030 loaded with the new Hornady LeverRevolution ammo be sufficient for an Idaho black bear? Have an accompanying sidearm question in Revolvers...

 

[Thefabulousfink]

Now I haven't hunted black bear yet (but I'd REALLY like to), however, I have done a LOT of camping in N. Idaho and seen more than a few.

Black Bears are NOT Grizzlies, a 30-30 should have no problem with a heart/lungs shot, but you would probably need to be within 100 yards. This shouldn't be a problem b/c most of the blackies that I have seen have been pretty close. The dense forests in the Bitterroot or Panhandle should keep most of your shots under 200 yards anyway.

As for a backup gun...the only reason you should need one is if the bear charges you and your rifle jams. I have heard of bowhunters having their partner carry a 12ga loaded with slugs to stop a charging bear.

Hope that helps and good hunting!

 

[LittleLebowski]

I can't use a red dot so that leaves a forward mounted low power scope as best choice, right?

 

[Vern Humphrey]

As for a backup gun...the only reason you should need one is if the bear charges you and your rifle jams.

Ernie Pagette (who was an NRA Director) shot a black bear in Virginia with a .308. The bear got up and lumbered off. He shot it again, and the bear got its hind legs under it and plowed its way into a laurel "hell." Ernie went in with a .357 and finished it off.

It turned out that both bullets - 150 grain Sierra boattail softpoints -- broke up on the bear's shoulders.