Bear load in .300 mag

[sam700]

I’m working up a black bear load for my load for my hunting rifle (.300 win mag Kimber Montana).

I’m thinking about trying 200 grain Barnes X which I should be able to push around 2800 FPS with IMR 4350 in a 26 inch barrel.

The other possibility is a 180 grain Barnes X at around 3000 FPS

I’m trying to get the best punch possible out of the gun because I’d like to get to the Kenai where there’s always the chance of encountering something much bigger than Black bears.

I know both loads are adequate for black bears, but marginal for browns. The question is which would be better suited to the job? I haven’t worked up any of these loads yet, but I imagine the 200’s may put out some recoil which could border on uncomfortable in a lightweight gun like the Montana. My 165 grain deer load comes darn close to scoping me on some prone shots but I haven’t gotten hit yet.

 

[fishdog52]

The 180 gr Partition over a case full of 7828 has been a consistent & reliable load for me in my light rifle. I have never been able to get very good accuracy with the X bullet.
I use a scope with nearly 5 inches of eye relief. Leupold & Nikon both offer this.

 

[blitzen]

you'll only notice the recoil while shooting from the bench. While shooting at a bear you won't notice. Use the heavy bullets and you'll be fine. good luck!

 

[moooose102]

the heavier the bullet, the better! 200, or maybe even a 220 grain would be what i would use for big bears. they are BIG, TOUGH animals, and you need a big, tough bullet to kill them. the 300 win mag is a fine cartridge, and the kimber, a fine rifle. just be sure to take enough bullet to do the job. you dont want to have to shoot 2, or 3, or 4 rounds at one of those beasts! ESPECIALLY, if it is at close range!!! i just went to the midway website, and looked up the barnes x bullet. barnes is reccomending it for antelope and elk. it may not be enough bullet for a big brown, or grizzley!. if i were you, i would call them, and ask them if they would reccomend this bullet for your application!. you do not want to be 20 yards from a big bear, and pi$$ him off!!!