What loads do you use for bear season? - Page 2

WV_gunner · September 19, 2013, 07:59 PM

I've only went once, but I use a .45/70 Hornady LeveRevolution shooting out of a NEF.

kutz · September 19, 2013, 08:20 PM

Magnum Research BFR in .450 Marlin works for me with Bear & Elk, the revolver is PLENTY good out to 100 yards!

bird_dog · September 20, 2013, 10:30 AM

I've killed 4 with standard Remington Core-Lokt 180gr pointed soft-points in 30.06. All 4 deader than doornails, no more than a 10 yard death sprint.

Also killed one with a 70lb bow, and a Thunderhead 125. 40 yard death sprint, also deader than dead.

Shot placement is important. While I agree that most deer loads will work, I'd also remind you that bears can vary greatly in size. Where I hunt in Maine, 200lb bears are common, but 4-500 pounders are not unheard of. Go with a good, stout load, and don't take a chance.

Again, placement is everything -- as with all big game hunting.

September 19, 2013, 07:59 PM	#26
WV_gunner Senior Member Join Date: December 14, 2011 Location: WV Posts: 938	I've only went once, but I use a .45/70 Hornady LeveRevolution shooting out of a NEF.

September 19, 2013, 08:20 PM	#27
kutz Senior Member Join Date: September 24, 2012 Location: Arizona Posts: 393	Magnum Research BFR in .450 Marlin works for me with Bear & Elk, the revolver is PLENTY good out to 100 yards!

September 20, 2013, 10:30 AM	#28
bird_dog Senior Member Join Date: May 26, 2004 Posts: 225	I've killed 4 with standard Remington Core-Lokt 180gr pointed soft-points in 30.06. All 4 deader than doornails, no more than a 10 yard death sprint. Also killed one with a 70lb bow, and a Thunderhead 125. 40 yard death sprint, also deader than dead. Shot placement is important. While I agree that most deer loads will work, I'd also remind you that bears can vary greatly in size. Where I hunt in Maine, 200lb bears are common, but 4-500 pounders are not unheard of. Go with a good, stout load, and don't take a chance. Again, placement is everything -- as with all big game hunting.