K_G_1

I will going on my first black bear hunt in a few days. I've been researching shot placement and have read a lot about the shoulder/scapula shot. I will be packing a 30-06 loaded with 168gr tsx. I don't have a chronometer but my load with this bullet should be moving about 2900 fps. Will this be enough to go for a shoulder shot or should I go with a traditional boiler room shot to be safe?

Muley Hunter

A lung-heart shot is always best. It's much easier to hit on a bear if the bear is taking a step forward with the hunter side front leg.

I assume you're talking about a black bear by looking at your location? You have more than enough gun.

Topgun 3006

What Pete said!!!

troutbum

X3, I have shot and killed only two blk bears in 40 some yrs of hunting.1st one was in the 70's up in Maine, I killed him with a winchester 1886 in 45/70. Guide told me to hit him right in the shoulder to smash it . He didn't go to far, 45/70 did it's job. 2nd one was with a 30-06. In the 80's in Maine. This time guide said to give him a lung, hart shot. 06 did it's job real good, bear fell by the bait. I still use a 06 for 90% of my big game hunting. except for bear, I bought another 45/70, just for kicks.You can't beat an 06. I'd use a 180 grn to a 220 grn for bear. Good luck.