bear hunting weapons of choice.

[Seriousshooter1]

Im going black bear hunting in Montana in the spring and have never been gonna take a short barred 45-70 trapper and a 10mm side arm will this be sufficient?

 

[Soj51hopeful]

Do you have some hounds lined up? Unless you’re going to shoot one out of a tree, why the short 45-70?

 

[Seriousshooter1]

Do you have some hounds lined up? Unless you’re going to shoot one out of a tree, why the short 45-70?

gonna be doing some hiking through some thick woods and I intend on getting pretty close.

 

[Soj51hopeful]

Well that’ll do it in those conditions. That’s not how most guys spring bear hunt, but maybe you know something I don’t. Have at it.

 

[Luke S]

I'd prefer something with more range. You might get close or you might find 200 or 300 yards is as close as you can get.
Also I suggest a scope regardless of rifle. Several times brush hunting has meant shooting through a narrow window and missing small branches. You imagine a quick CQB style shot but you get a tricky shot that needs to be precise. Several of my bears were like that

 

[mustelid_master]

Shoot the same rifle you'd shoot for deer. Sidearms are a "take it or leave it" situation. I never have carried on. Most people are overly concerned with grizzlies. Don't overthink it.

 

[Decker9]

I love sneaking on bears in the spring time with an open sighted thumper. When the wind is good and they’re in the feed, is amazing how close a guy can get. Makes for an exciting hunt!!