My encore is ready for the Black Bear.

[teddy12b]

I took my TC encore 26" 30-06 to the range last weekend with my cousins.  They are first time bear hunters too and they were trying out some different rifles I had borrowed from friends.  I took a bunch of handloaded 220gr Pro-Hunters sitting on IMR 4350 and it made one almost completely ragged hole at 50 yards.  I'll get it set up for 100 yards next time, but I was pretty happy with what I saw at 50 yards.  We're going on a baited hunt so 50 yards is probably as far as our shots will be anyway. 

My barrel really likes the 150gr ammo for accuracy, but for a black bear the 220gr ammo shot pretty darn good too.

[Encore28]

Sounds like there will be a dead bear if one shows up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Good Luck
Encore28

[panman]

Teddy you really don't need more than 150 GR'S.for black bears.If your gun likes 150s shoot em.The most important thing is GR'S construction.Use a well put together bullet like Nozelrs,Barns,or the like and you'll have your bear.Hitting them in the foot will not do it .lol.Making sure you hit em in the boiler room,neck,spine,or shoulder will get em every time as long as you use a bullet made to do the job.Good luck to you all on your hunt.