8 MM Mauser or K31 7.5x55 for Black Bear

[Northmen]

I have a black bear that is becoming a problem slowly.
My plan is to wait until after hibernation to get a spring bear hunting license. I'm not a big game hunter, so my rifles reflect that. Between the k31 with 174 grain sp (the only one I can find is prvi) vs a 8 mm sp in the 190 grain region.
Which one would be more suitable? The mauser is shorter and lighter being civilian purpose built, so more maneuverability. It would be close range woodland hunting.
Thanks in advance

 

[tiriaq]

Bear will never know the difference.
Which rifle do you shoot better?

 

[freire]

Ask the bear wish one he prefers
Seriously whatever rifle you prefer .

 

[brybenn]

Both will work if shot placement is good

 

[brybenn]

My buddy took a young bear with a 32 special. Basically a slower 8mm and it worked great. 170 gr flat nose Speer hotcor. Complete pass thru three times

 

[Wild_Thing]

8mm is bad ass.

 

[Northmen]

Thanks for the advice. I'll get the soft point ammo for both and go to the range to see which one feels best for the task.

 

[The Kurgan]

As long as it's a proper hunting bullet, read: not FMJ, it won't matter. Personally, I would opt for the punch of 8mm:

https://www.tradeexcanada.com/content/8x57-js-norma-ammunition-196gr-sp-vulkan-18020

 

[ratherbefishin]

Where you hit it is more important than what you hit it with.Even fatally hit Bears can run ,and after tracking a few through thick stuff the only shot I will take is a broadside shot right through both shoulders,anchors them right there.You don't need a big magnum,either the7.5x55 or the 8 x57 is fine, I use a 65x55 swede( high sectional density bullets)

 

[Suther]

My bear was taken with 130gr corelokt's from a 270. Went about 25 feet before it piled up.

Either option is a fine choice for most any big game, save for grizzly and bison.

 

[mbogo3]

I'd use either for grizzly or bison with the right bullets.

 

[MDR]

I used the 8mm on an interior Grizzly. It is being made into a rug.

 

[Northmen]

There are more high quality options for the 8mm ammunition. Are there any concerns about them being modern high pressure rounds in a 96 year old rifle?

 

[mbogo3]

A decent 98 mauser will take any sane handload or factory offering and cycle reliably every time.

 

[Northmen]

Thanks, I only recently bought the mauser. So advice is greatly appreciated.

 

[mbogo3]

To empty a mauser quickly with hinged floor plate or not [cold hands in winter] I just unlock the bolt and work the bolt like a straight pull rifle.Empty in mere seconds.