To answer your question directly, if black bear are the largest threat, my opinion is that a heavy .357 mag hardcast SWC or WFN at combat range would do for your heaviest hitting need. If you are not using it as a primary hunting piece at 50 yards or more, it should be fine. What's a .35 Rem doing at 150 yards compared to a .357 mag heavy bullet at 50 feet?
