Black Bear self defense handgun/rifle

[nathank]

why not a short 12 guage with slugs i dont think you can beat that for fast stopping power

[Outerspace]

Thanks everyone so much for your contributions.

So far it sounds like the 12 gauge slug/44 mag combination is the best, no?

I do not own a shotgun, was wondering if there were any suggestions on models for this.

I also do not own a 44 mag, would be interested in models on that also for this particular case. I don't care whether it is a revolver or not, and I don't know if there are wide differences in recoil.

Also, I was thinking of starting another thread but maybe just here is fine, I am planning on doing some Alaska trips in the next few years, and it makes sense to get one rig for both spots.

What is the deal with a 45/70? I've looked up the energy specs on those and they underperform your 300 mags and stuff. I was researching that as a possible purchase for this but it seems to be less powerful than other options.

And I suppose a 357 mag or 357 sig would be out of the question for an AK grizzly?

Thanks.

[Outerspace]

Originally Posted by ICANHITHIMMAN

Marlin Guide gun in 45-70 or 450 marlin

What do you like about these?

[Outerspace]

Originally Posted by lamiglas

30-30 would work, 223 would not. Atleast not very well. your asking the question as if you are looking to make a purchase for this purpose. If that is the case, a 12 guage shotgun is the best bet. If its a sidearm, i would get a 44 magnum. Bears are hard to kill fast and I have carried a 40 and a 45 while bowhunting before but honestly they are far underpowered. Usually I carry a 44 mag, or 500 S&W depening on where i am etc.

It is probably doubtful you will ever encounter a problem, but if you do i agree that you should be prepared. also, follow up shots are not a problem with a 44 mag that has any wieght to it. i have shot the ultra lights and they can be a handful.

good luck.

Not to beat a dead horse, but the concept with the mini 14 was to be able to put 15 shots in him quickly. I don't know if this would make a difference or not.

[MachV]

I really doubt you would have time to put 15 rounds into a problem bear before the bear was a REAL problem!! A bear makes a bad target comeing at you as the bullets tend to slide off thier head or have to go through a lot of bear to hit anything vitel.
A big heavy slug tends to help both problems!

[Outerspace]

Originally Posted by MachV

I really doubt you would have time to put 15 rounds into a problem bear before the bear was a REAL problem!! A bear makes a bad target comeing at you as the bullets tend to slide off thier head or have to go through a lot of bear to hit anything vitel.
A big heavy slug tends to help both problems!

Ok, I'm sold.

[justgoto]

Originally Posted by Outerspace

What do you like about these?

Just guessing but... They have the same velocity of a 30-30 but use 300+ grain 45 cal bullets.