If you were to buy a rifle today.... (Range Report Added)! post #59

[GMC403]

Specifically for Black Bear Hunting (spot stalk)

What would you buy, and in what calibre?. Maybe even add what your ammo preference would be.
It could be New, Used, or a custom build.


*Hoping to get an idea of preference from people with more firsthand experience than me.


Cheers,

 

[Grey_Wolf]

I would look at a Model 70 (in whatever stock you prefer) chambered 6.5x55, crf, easy to shoot and the round is more than capable

 

[SHELL SHUCKER]

Specifically for Black Bear Hunting (spot stalk)

What would you buy, and in what calibre?. Maybe even add what your ammo preference would be.
It could be New, Used, or a custom build.


*Hoping to get an idea of preference from people with more firsthand experience than me.


Cheers,

What's your most favorite rifle action & we can go from there.

 

[GMC403]

What's your most favorite rifle action & we can go from there.

I already have what most would consider to be just right (M70 EW 30-06).

But as I always seem to, I find myself wondering if a CRF bolt action in 35 Whelen or 338wm with irons would be a better choice. The bears tend to be on the larger side out here, anything that will help prevent having to track through the thick west coast timber is a worthwhile investment in my mind.

 

[Bartledan]

Stainless Weatherby Vanguard in 30-06, Talley Lightweight Extended Low rings, and a Leupold VX-2 3-9x40.

Right around $1500, out the door.

 

[SHELL SHUCKER]

I already have what most would consider to be just right (M70 EW 30-06).

But as I always seem to, I find myself wondering if a CRF bolt action in 35 Whelen or 338wm with irons would be a better choice out here in the thick timber, where the task of tracking a bear presents a real challenge.

I see no problems with either of your choices from 30-06 through .35 Whelen for anything in N.A. The .338 WM is a dandy as well if you feel the need for a belted magnum. All are very versatile for the job intended.

 

[MD]

I've used a Model 700 243, Enfield 30-06, Husqvarna 7x57, 7.62 Russian and 300 Win Mag on black bears in BC.

If I really thought I needed another rifle (and I don't) it would be a bolt action 9.3x62. Doesn't matter if it's a vintage Husqvarna sporter or a new stainless plastic fantastic Sako. Just a 9.3x62.

 

[Kevan]

How about a CZ 550 in 9.3X62 ?
If you reload you can go up to 320 gr. with the Woodleigh bullet or as light as 232 I believe with the Norma with several in between.
Ideal timber cartridge for Bear or Moose etc.

 

[Brian46]

Short (16-18" barrel), light, detachable mag, set trigger, buttery smooth action. I would go with a 308 but caliber is up to you

 

[double gun]

350 rem mag on a model 7 stainless

 

[SuperCub]

M700 BDL with custom SS bbl in 35Whelen in a Brown Precision stock topped with an Leupold 2.5-8.

 

[hoytcanon]

250+ bears has given me a perspective on this subject. I was always happy to see a mid-bore rifle being removed from the case when sports arrived, preferably with a low power quality scope... preferably a bolt action. That is not to say that other actions or cartridges are not capable, but a quality bolt action with a quality low powered scope chambered in .338, .358, 9.3mm or .375 (you choose your flavour) have proven to be particularly competent... and a portion of that lethality can be attributed to the type of hunter that would choose them.

For myself, it would no doubt be an M77 in a .35... either .358 Win, .35 Whelen, or .350 RM... loaded with a good cup and core, particularly like the Partition on bears.

 

[double gun]

M700 BDL with custom SS bbl in 35Whelen in a Brown Precision stock topped with an Leupold 2.5-8.

Sounds like a nice rig, I wonder how long it would take to build one? Lol.

 

[MajorMalcontent]

350 rem mag on a model 7 stainless

^^^same here^^^

 

[madashell]

Probably a Remington Model 7 stainless in .308. Probably use 165 gr. Nosler Accubond. 1 x 4 - 30mm tube Leopold optic. Talley rings. Slogan Outdoors sling with Brute composite swivels. All I'd really need .......

 

[KCCO1989]

Norinco M305S

 

[Eagleye]

I would probably stay with what I used when involved in bear control in orchard country.
It proved very capable, regardless of the size of the bear.
Remington 700 Carbine in 30-06. 180 Partition, driven by a max working load of Norma MRP.
Optics.....Low power Leupold Variable.
Dave.

 

[chuck nelson]

If money were no object, an Echols Legend in 7mm Mashburn.

 

[Rembo]

If I "had" to buy one for the purpose outlined I'd likely get a new stainless T3 in 30-06.......and resell it after the hunt.

If I were allowed to take one I already have I'd just grab my custom Pre'64 Model 70 in 35 Whelen.

 

[SigWig]

tikka 30-06

try some of that new hornady precision hunter