What do you use for deer hunting? Generally speaking, if it kills deer it will kill a bear just fine, though I agree a heavier caliber than .243 is wise....270, 30-06, .308, etc. all are good rounds (though I am partial to 45-70 ) Why not go out this fall? if you are deer hunting, shot placement is fundamentally the same, gutting is the same, you just need to figure the baiting angle out. ( I have always gone with an outfitter, and he took care of it). Just respect the meat. Bears are notoriously fatty, and the hot sun/warm temperatures can turn the meat easily, and the black hide soaks up the heat. Cool the meat as soon as you can and keep it out of the sun.