Bolt action rifles work well, like pre-64 Model 70s and Mausers. The trend now on bolt rifles is no iron sights. Not a good idea.
The recent death of an Alaskan hunter skinning out a moose is an example of either poor planning or the bear came really fast-which they are capable of doing. Where was his rifle?
Ed Stevenson is not the only hunter/guide that relies on lever actions. Phil Shoemaker and family are Alaskan guides that use various Model 71/Model 1886 /95 rifles with success.
My instinct is that regular users of bolt action rifles without a G&H side mount and/or iron sights have never had a close call with a bear. I have a Super Grade early M-70 in 300 H&H-with G&H Mt- Lyman Alaskan.
It also has a Lyman 48WJS receiver sight that can be used immediately, by a slight eye shift. Handy in rain & fog or white out. Having both original 1886 and Model 71s in 450 Alaskan and 348 Ackley-with a few 405 1895s convinces may that they are faster than any bolt gun. Fast iron sights with a smoother lever cycle rate will put you faster on repeat shots. A big grizzly may well require repeat shots.
Get iron sights on your rifle. Those that criticise John Browning's basic 1895/1886 actions either never had one or are displaying their ignorance.
Last edited by 450Fuller; 10/10/20.
