blkpowder50

opinions on best big grizzly stopper between these: 9.3x62Mauser,
45-70,30-06,12 gauge rifled slug custom loaded?Or give your opinion if you think other calibers are suited to it.

Muley Hunter

Three threads so far. You sure are worried about grizz.

Use what Alaskan guides use, and what I used when I worked a gold claim there. .458 mag. 500gr bullet. Stops them dead in their tracks.

blkpowder50

thanks for the input, i appreciate it. im going into bear country.

BarnesX.308

Of the three you listed, the 9.3 sounds the best.

The 12ga slug would have the biggest surface area, but I'd be concerned about penetration.

Bullcamp82834

I carry a 243 when in Griz country but I also have terminal cancer and a wife that has the clap.



Just kidding.

When elk hunting in Griz area I carry a 35 Whelen and 250 grain loads. Probably never will need to defend myself but its a comfort to know its there in the tent at night. My new project is a 325 WSM and 200 grainers. Better long range and also hits hard enough to stop.

rab123

Get some hot loads with stout bullets for the 45/70.buffalo bore factory loads suitable ammo for 45/70 and a grizz.

CalHunter

Are you hunting grizzly specifically, hunting something else where grizzlies are found or just want something while camping or fishing? I agree with the 45-70 BUT I'd use a 338WM if I was specifically hunting grizzlies for the longer reach.

Muley Hunter

I hope you know I wasn't suggesting you get a .458. I wasn't hunting grizz, but just wanted a gun to stop a charge. My friend was an African hunter, and had the .458 for sale. I said hell....that should work, and bought it. Quite the kicker with those 500gr bullets. I never had to use it for grizz, but it did a hell of job on a moose. Most elephant guns do.

CalHunter

Yes, they do.

I've read before (never confirmed though) that the most popular caliber among Alaskan grizzly guides to back up their clients is a 338WM.

Just from a ballistic perspective on your 4 listed cartridges, the 9.3 and 30-06 are longer distance (at least 200 yards+) while the 12 gauge is a 100 yards or so and the 45-70 is somewhere in between (depending on what ammo you use). I guess your decision comes down to how you think you're going to use the gun (distance, type of hunting, etc.) and what you feel comfortable with and/or can afford. Good luck.

Muley Hunter

Maybe now it's a 338 mag. This was back in the 70's.