I know of a Norwegan scientist who killed a polar bear with a Smith & Wesson .44 Magnum, Model 29 or the stainless M-629. I don't know the barrel length or the range. But it was a defensive shot, so the range was probably quite close. The event set off some negartive letters to National Geographic.
I don't know what those people were thinking. Was the man supposed to let the bear eat him?!
Yes, I'd use a Model 870 Remington in 12 gauge with slugs. Can you get Brenneke slugs?They used to sell a version with rifle sights and a 20 inch barrel. If they still make it, that would seem ideal, or their marine version with stainless or chromed steel and a synthetic stock.
I'd prefer a rifle, preferably in .375 H&H Magnum caliber.. The .338 Winchester or the .340 Weatherby would also be good.I'd want Nosler Partition bullets, but Norma may offer suitable bullets. The 9.3X62mm and 9.3X64mm may be more available there. Are US cartridges common?
The late US gun writer Jeff Cooper felt that ALL polar bears, like ALL crocodiles, are potential man-eaters. I agree.
If you get any good bear photos, please post them.
Good luck in the job, and be careful.
Oh: I've read that some Norwegian organiztion issues 10mm Glock pistols to their personnel who may see polar bears. I'd rather have a .44 Magnum revolver. Which handgun are you taking?
I don't know a lot about Norway,apart from some World War Two stuff. I do lke your sardines, King Oscar brand.
I saw a survival video featuring an Englishman who said that grizzly bears can smell cooking food from 20 miles away! I imagine that polar beas have at least equal skills.