Originally Posted by
BarnesX.308
The two bears we shot in our camp were taken with a 30-06 and a 300 Mag. A 12ga slug would probably work fine in close range. But a rifle is the usual bear medicine. Most deer rifles will work on smaller to average bears. A really big bear, I would go with a 30-06 or bigger.
Remington has there model 700 bolt action in 30-06 or just about any caliper you want, for less than $300.00. This is at the local Walmart, But I think the 700 is a nock off of the original. If I did buy a high powered rifle, I would want a short chamber bullet cartridge, 308 would more than likely get the nod.
All we have here is big black bear, they weigh from 300lb's. to 800lb's. for the mail's. You have to purchase bear tags, your only allow to gut the bear and you have to bring it in and let them see and record the kill. The bear has to be whole up too 300lb's. then you are allowed to section cut quarter pieces so you and a hunting friend can load the bear.
Like I said I've never been BB hunting but I did read the rules. You have to also hunt with a friend and never alone. I also would holster my smith and Wesson 686+1 revolver, it holds 7 rounds. S&W took a 44 magazine and drilled it for 357 that's where the extra round come's from.