Anybody that tells you any whitetail deer cartridge is good enough for a bear has never been close to a big bear. 350 pounds plus, dressed of course.
They are big with large dense skeletal structure.
I own an accurate 25-06 Model 70. It is accurate using 100 grain Barnes X and 115 grain Nosler Partitions. I really like the gun. I would never use it bear hunting. If it is all you own, hunting with hounds or over bait one could head/neck shoot with it.
My bear rifle is a Savage Model 99 in the 308 caliber. It is very accurate and offers a quick second or third shot. 165 grain Accubond factory loads. You have to be aware of pass through. That bullet will blow right through a smaller bear. You have to be aware of what is behind your target.
A 270 Winchester with a premium 150 grain bullet is a good starting place to start. 7mm-08 on the short action side.
If you get the chance at a truly large bear you will be glad your 30-30 is at the house.
Last edited by yoop; 01/28/12.
