What caliber for bear?

[mdunc8]

I hunt with a .270. Is that big enough for black bears within 200 yards? I won't be shooting any further than that if I get lucky enough to see one.

 

[cadman59501]

I would think you would be ok with that. Personally I will be using a .300 wsm. But, shot placement is a key just like anything else.

 

[belly-deep]

People kill them with .243s. 270 is plenty for black bears.

 

[Lawnboy]

If you watched the Montana Bear episode this season you would of seen Fin shoot a great bear using his 270. At least I think that was his 270 I tried to steal it from him after our mule deer hunt this fall Sweet gun.

 

[sreekers]

Shot placement is everything. However, bears in general are not known for good blood trails. A larger caliber bullet with a larger exit hole will produce more blood, and an easier/safer retrieve.

 

[BiggWimm]

Shot placement is everything. However, bears in general are not known for good blood trails.

I agree 100%! I have shot bears with .338, .300 wsm, .243, .45, 12 ga. All killed the bear, and relatively quickly, but depending on how open the area you are hunting you might want to leave a bigger hole. Due to a bears fat contact, they can occlude the hole and prevent external bleeding. .270 will due the job though.

 

[sweetnectar]

I've even heard of guys that have used a 9mm hadguns and done the job on black bears. I have to agree with shot placement. being the key.

 

[Moosie]

9mm at 200 yards ?

I'm going to be one of the few that will tell you NO. Stay away from the .270. Like in Porn, Bigger is better

 

[JohnCushman]

I go after them with my bow...lol There's just something about the rush you get being within 50 yards or so of something that can kill you if it felt like it

 

[sweetnectar]

Go with a 300 wsm or if your an animal, go with a broadhead. I do have to agree with Moosie bigger is better, just hit the critter where it counts and you won't have to track it.

Also, Layin it Down has a video I saw on you tube where his wife blasts a bear square in the chest. I'll post it if I can find it again.

 

[sweetnectar]

Here it is. Both end up with Bear.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDqA_gSI62U

 

[arffdog875]

I think I will go with either my 300 RUM or 338 RUM for open country or for the thick ugly brush my 45-70 open sights.

 

[ashersdad]

I have shot all but one of my bears with a .270. Plenty of gun in my opinion.

 

[Wyodeerhunter]

Use the .270 and take the money you would of spent on a new gun and use it to go hunting.

Hell I've been dabbling with the idea for a .270 for grizz/brown bear up here.