Looks like I'm headed to Canada for a black bear hunt. I have a 54 cal Remington 700ML that I've had for years. The bears where I'm headed can run up to 400 lbs. I've shot a few bears with the 45-70 and 280 Rem. They aren't that tough to kill if hit right - but if they get into the bush any distance it makes for a tedious track job.
I've shot lots of Powerbelts but I've seen them stay inside deer if weird angles or large bones are hit. I'm a bit leery on big bears or elk.
What are my options for a 54 cal if bears, and an elk in the next year or two, are on the menu?
