I have a Marlin model 1895 45-70 guide gun I use for deer and hogs, it would be a great black bear gun. Short barrel and a lot of smack down. I have never shot beyond 100 yards with it but at 100 yards it hist where it is supposed to and if I practiced at 200 I am sure I could connect with it. The odds of that where I hunt are slim to none. I sure would take it over a 30-30 or 35 Remington any day for putting critters down.