Author Topic: Any TN bear hunters out there? (Read 496 times)

Old Cane · « **on:** July 20, 2004, 08:54:39 AM »

I'd like to give it a try one of these days. What is the min. energy I should be looking for for a 2-400 black bear? I think I will try ML if I get to go this year which I doubt. I have a .50 and use 295g HPs with 100g 777. What about a centerfire? Is 25-06 enough or should I use a 30-06?

crazyjjk · « **Reply #1 on:** July 20, 2004, 10:01:17 AM »

Though a 25-06 will definitely kill bear if the shot is placed right I would opt for the 30-06 with either 165 or 180 grain pills.>John

Old Cane · « **Reply #2 on:** July 21, 2004, 04:22:19 AM »

That's what I figured. And thanks for answering the question I asked and not jumping on and saying I need a 7mm or 300 mag. I have a 25-06 and I can use a 30-06. I'm not buying one for a one time hunt.

Ever use a muzzleloader on one?

Sourdough · « **Reply #3 on:** July 27, 2004, 08:01:10 PM »

Have used Muzzleloaders on Black Bear, and they do the trick, but it takes a while. There is no hydrostatic shock, just a big hole. They run off usually and die somewhere. Following them into the brush is not a good feeling. You never know how soon they will die. It's not fun following something that is wounded and can eat you. I like 30-06 with 180 grain Noslers, lots of hydrostatic shock and you can break the front shoulders, where they can't get into the brush.

Old Cane · « **Reply #4 on:** July 28, 2004, 03:35:57 PM »

I'm thinking a couple of thousand foot-pounds of energy would impart some sort of shock to an animal. Keep in mind, our black bear are not on the same scale as yours. 300lbs is really big here. I can see what you mean if they weigh 6-800lbs. Is that about they size they are up your way? I've seen from really big ones from Canada too.