Wheww... I really didn't intend to stir-up a hornets nest. Guess since I haven't been to this forum much, I must've missed alot.

Going with the masses; No. Magnumitis; Definite No.

I'm considering the following criteria in this selection:

#1 - My personal safety. If I don't have the confidence in a .308 or '06 ability for downing large grizzly or Alaskan greats; I'm not going. I've talked to a number of guides concerning these bear hunts, and the majority have cited instances where '06's and even 300 WinMag's have created wounded, and mostly lost game. Hence reason #2.

#2 - Out of respect for the animal, whichever species, I will select the best possible firearm caliber which gives me the ability to properly place a shot with enough power to ensure a humane and quick harvest. Again, if I don't have the fitting arm, I'm not going.

And last but not least - Yes, I am going to Africa. But if I were to show up with any caliber less than legal, all I would be shooting is pictures. Not the reason I'm making the trip.






Shoot often - Hunt always