Black Bear Rifle

[X-Rap]

I caught a bear in the open down in SW NM once while on horseback and couldn't close on him and ultimately my stirrup broke which put an end to my chase. Wasn't intentionally out for bear but I did have a tag in my pocket.
They are quite fast.

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[nhcruffler]

Yes, shot guns , 30-30, 7mm mauser, and quarter bores will kill black bears. I try to go for the quickest kill on any game so I tend to step it up. Plus I like using different rifles and building rifles. If I go out bear hunting I usually will take the o6 or the 35 Whalen . I built the 35 and the 06 just never misses. So use what you want / like and can shoot well.

 

[Bobson]

Can't think of a gun I'd rather use on black bear than a smooth handling 30-30 lever gun with open sights, except maybe the same thing in 45-70.

Seriously though, the 30-30 would be great.

 

[ants]

Don't forget, most states offer an archery bear tag. Archery.
Any gun you can shoot straight, you can use for black bear.

When hunting any type of game, it is more important that you get a gun you can shoot well.



So here's the best advice: Always go bear hunting with a fat guy.

You don't have to outrun the bear, you only have to outrun the fat guy.

 

[Bobson]

Just make sure you take him jogging first to see what you're getting yourself into. I've seen some fat guys who move with remarkable speed and stamina.

 

[jim in Anchorage]

I am posting here only because all the other hunting threads have been locked. A 30-30? Is this 1895? Why not a 32-40?

 

[Averageman]

My Uncle moved to Alaska right after WWII.
I believe they packed several 03's with them and they were shooting bears out of the cabin windows that had come up in to the yard where the kids were playing on occasion.
30-06 is a pretty versatile round and I'm sure with a reloader it might meet all of your needs.

 

[stiab]

Any gun you can shoot straight, you can use for black bear.

Poor advice, you owe the animal more respect than that.

 

[ants]

Quote:

Any gun you can shoot straight, you can use for black bear.

Poor advice, you owe the animal more respect than that.

You're right, we should say any gun that can kill a black bear and you can shoot straight...

We wouldn't advocate 22 rimfire even if you can shoot it straight.
Thanks for keeping us honest about it.