psrice1963

Hi All,

I was looking at a X-Bolt SS Stalker in 325 WSM but wanted to know what anyone else thought of the 325 for black bear and white tail deer? I know it's overkill for deer but seems like the 325 WSM would be a good black bear caliber. The one big question I have is will it be around for another 10 or 20 years? Would love to know your thoughts.

Thanks in advance.

finnbear

I'd stick with the .50 BMG and then that would be marginal in my book!!!
If you're worried about the longivity of a cartrige stick with the 30-30 or the 30-06 both will be around forever and have killed untold thousands of deer and bear!!!! And with no problem what so ever..............

salukipv1

I'd get a .300wsm instead I think, .325 would worry me about being around down the road for sure.

.338 federal is an option if you want something big/small etc...but again I'd prob just get a .308

Get a .300WSM and be good.

or .30-06

.338win mag isn't a bad option either, shooting 210grs, etc...

skeeter 7MM

I considered buying one myself a few years ago. It boiled down to a few things:
- lack of success with past 8mm(.323) in NA, which results in limited choices for bullets.(in my area components just aren't lining the shelves & as a reloader I like options/availability.)
- Performance or warranted- not enough over the .300 nor close enough to the .338
- didn't like the gun/platform. (feel or fit)

I opted to pass on the 325, certainly nothing wrong with it and will work for more then the deer/bear. Before you buy check out ammo or component availabilty in your area, that may make the decision for you.

If wanting a wsm personally I'd be looking at either a 270wsm or 300wsm. I think for deer and blackie's, the .270wsm would be a excellent choice. If elk or moose are possibily in your future the 300wsm would be me suggestion.

Good luck

aaddicted

For deer and bear a 300wsm or 270wsm would be a better choice. I own both a 325 and a 270 wsm. The 325 pretty much gets used on elk only and the 270 gets used on all the smaller stuff.
Both the 300 and the 270 will be around for a long time the 325 probably wont be around as long. Its also alot easier to get factory ammo or reloading supplies for both of these.

Ol'Mongo

A .325 is kind of big for a black bear. They're not that formidable an animal. An earlier post suggested a .300 WSM or 30-06. I agree with that with the exception I'd substitute a .300 Win Mag for the Short Mag merely because it's easier to find. Both have been around for years and will be on the scene for evermore.

skullman11

I own many different calibers, i still prefer my 30-06. i find that it is a versitile caliber and will be here for eons. In saying this, i dont hunt in thing bigger than Moose.

Denis

psrice1963

Thanks everyone for your help. Greatly appreciated. 300 WSM sounds like the ticket then.

salukipv1

that Xbolt carbon stainless looks pretty cool btw.