Thinking about a dedicated black bear rifle, thoughts?

[Capn Jack]

Normally I leave the bears alone, but here is my vote.

 

[titsonritz]

That said, the original post stated greater than .30. OK, in that case, .45⧸70 Government. I no longer shoot anything in said, but I did a bunch in the past. It is a darn fine thumper of a cartridge that can be loaded to almost whatever you'd want. I have no doubt it would drop Mr or Mrs. Bruin, if need be.

That is one of the beautiful things about the 45-70, it can be loaded down to mild 30-30 ballistics (think original 405gr black powder loadings) or right on up close to .458 Win Mag. That's a pretty large power range, plus it's been kicking serious a** for 145 years. Not many come close to either claim.

 

[Oregonhunter5]

I love the bow type of thread. Remember placement of shot on a bear is HUGE. Meaning important. Doesn't matter what you shoot. Shot placement.

.30 cal

 

[Blowgunner]

If I was to set out for a hard hitting brush gun, I'd look no farther tha the Ruger Hawkeye Guide gun in .338 Win Mag or .375 Ruger.
Ruger® Guide Gun * Bolt-Action Rifle Models

 

[No_Regerts]

I love the bow type of thread. Remember placement of shot on a bear is HUGE. Meaning important. Doesn't matter what you shoot. Shot placement.

.30 cal

And a bear carries their vitals lower than a deer or elk. Many people shoot too high and go through the aspace between the vitals and spine.

 

[Oregonhunter5]

Goods wait till they step forward. Then shoot out the arm pit area. Just a hair lower.

 

[DeanMk]

Those last two posts were some good tips.
Thanks guys!