What caliber for black bear?

[lasher]

if you don't plan on eating the bear then i would suggest a 3.5" rocket launcher

 

[jstaylor62]

I am a firm believer in the 45-70 for Bear Self Defense and agree with @Jwryan84 on the 06 if hunting, for the standoff range.

+1 on 45/70 ... something 500+ grains ... Marlin Lever Action Guide Gun would be perfect

 

[Okie4570]

Thin skinned game, just like deer and probably at close range. 6mm with 85gr nosler partition probably.

 

[MacFromOK]

Thin skinned game, just like deer and probably at close range. 6mm with 85gr nosler partition probably.

 

[Oklahomabassin]

Oh geeze. Some of yall must think black bear are wearing body armor and hopped up on PCP. I believe it comes from lack of experience mostly. I see similar replies in the "what to use for hogs" thread also.
Unless you are going to try and snatch a cub from a sow (female bear) you won't be in a self defense situation. It is common for a black bear to climb up the tree or the ladder to a hunters stand and they tell it "go away" and the bear quickly retreats. Sounds like some of you would be wetting your panties.
The .308 or .30-06 will do just fine. (The calibers, I didn't pay attention to optics on those rifles that close) Plus you can practice a lot without breaking the bank.

 

[Okie4570]

Popcorn might be a little light for the task unless you think it will die from a intestinal obstruction.......... I'll stick with the 6mm

 

[Oklahomabassin]

Popcorn might be a little light for the task unless you think it will die from a intestinal obstruction.......... I'll stick with the 6mm

Lmao

 

[MacFromOK]

Actually might work pretty good for a diversion...

 

[Oklahomabassin]

Actually might work pretty good for a diversion...

You meant bait the bear with popcorn! Carmel corn!

 

[MacFromOK]

You meant bait the bear with popcorn! Carmel corn!

More like a replacement for pepper spray when they attack...