Protection from black bears

[jerry46]

I don't know whether to put this question in the revolver or semi-automatic handgun section. I am going archery hunting for deer in West Virginia and the area I hunt in has quite a few black bears. West Virginia's laws allow carrying a concealed firearm while archery hunting if you have a legitimate concealed carry permit. I have a Smith and Wesson 686, 6 in" and a Colt 1911, 5"in .45 acp. I do own a .44 magnum in Ruger super blackhawk with a 7 1/2 inch barrel. It is a hunting gun and not really a concealed weapon and it would be very hard to conceal. So, we are down to the .357 with 180 gr semi-jacked hollow points or the .45 with 230 gr semi-jacketed hollow points. Which would be the best gun for personal protection? I don't forsee anything happening, but it is better to have one and not need it than need one and not have it.

 

[Diggers]

WOOP WOOP Bear Thread WOOP WOOP


I'd say .357 would be your best gun choice.

Bear spray might be a better one.

 

[tkopp]

Black bears (at least out West) are about the size of a man. In the Northeast they can get quite a bit bigger, but that's in cold climates where mass helps them through the winter. Any of the pistols you mentioned ought to work fine.

Though, if you're worried about a freakishly large and/or aggressive bear, why not get bear spray? It really is the best tool for the job.

 

[Cosmoline]

If not spray, go with the .357 with 180 or 200 grain hardcasts, not hollow points.

 

[JustinL]

Jerry46

Have you tried the search button yet? I am sure your question has been answered more than once. These threads I've picked out just scratch the surface.


http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=539782&highlight=bear+protection

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=449627&highlight=bear+protection

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=3057&highlight=bear+protection

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=529563&highlight=bear+protection

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=527006&highlight=revolver+bear

 

[Sam1911]

Though I'm not opposed to rehashing old ground, "What caliber for bears???" has become the punchline of its own joke at this point.

JustinL has been kind enough to provide some links to a few threads on the matter, so I'll close this rather than leave it open to attract amateur humorists.