best 12 gauge ammo for bear defensebest 12 gauge ammo for bear defense

While the .380 ACP packs significantly more punch than the .22 LR, it is still a little wimpy when it comes to "stopping power.". However, these loads are more expensive due to the unique design of the segmenting slug. If you arent the type to rely on luck, youll want to spend plenty of time practicing with your bear gun. The aerodynamics (high sectional density) allowed by the sabot design gives us a bullet that not only shoots flatter but penetrates very well too. Hey George, as you know Alaska is so varied and what works in the Tundra might not be the best for the Rainforest. And if you need a quick second shot, nothing is faster than an AR-15. Problem with a handgun is can't use it until bear is at CLOSE range, last second. The average shooter doesnt have the skills to remain calm, draw, fire, and fatally wound a charging bear. Sort of, but thats still no good. More people die from moose attacks in Alaska than every other animal combined. Because its smaller in diameter, its usually lighter. Remington Ultimate Defense Buckshot 12 Gauge Shotshell 5 Rounds 2 3/4" Managed . As you observed, a Winchester Super X hollow point rifled slug is inadequate for bear defense. The Taurus Raging Bull revolver is also available in .454. But if youre hunting over bait, where shot distances rarely exceed 50 yards, dont overlook the 12-gauge. Black bears are not that hard to kill. Fiocchi Less Lethal Ammunition 12 Gauge 2-3/4" 4.8 Gram Rubber Baton Slug Box of 10. You've only seen one page. Winchester Super X #1 Buckshot Review Product Name: Winchester Super X #1 Buckshot Some of the best-ever black bear cartridges are not new, and some hunters dont just hunt black bears in one manner; some will use dogs, sit over bait, or prefer to spot-and-stalk. Pair that with Federal, one of the top ammo manufacturers in the world, and you have a high-quality round at a surprisingly affordable price. When possible, travel with a group of buddies and make plenty of noise as you go. Its ballistics are identical to the Hornady Reduced Recoil load but at half the price. When a bear charges, you may only have moments to fire 1-2 shots. From 12 ga rubber slugs to 12 ga signal flares, Margo Supplies has a large variety of 12 gauge options for bear and bird deterrence. Hollow-base slugs, also called Foster-style, and solid slugs. If you're looking for a buckshot load with a few more pellets, check out Winchester Super-X 3-1/2" 18 Pellets 00 Buckshot. This cartridge is available in fast-handling lever guns, like the 16.5-inch-barreled Marlin 1895 Trapper. But when it doesn't work, you'll want to be packing a firearm up to the task. In my first year, I killed dozens of ducks and three whitetail deer. With the Lyman pee sights it was lighter than the shotgun. When a bear encounter makes a turn for the worst, youll want a weapon you can use confidently and effectively. Alaskan brown bears average around 900 lbs of bone shattering fury. Which keeps it pointed in the right direction during a flight. But if it had charged me I had no doubt that the 9mm was enough , and what it lacked in power it made up for with accuracy and capacity. .The Taurus is usually a significantly lower-priced option for similar capability. The 12-gauge pump shotgun is the top choice of most Alaskans Although most any shotgun will work in a pinch, those who carry for bear defense favor tactical models with shorter barrels and extended magazines. Ask, and you shall receive, lol. This is a significant savings if you practice often and burn through ammo. I bet you have a couple of new Ruger and Glock handguns in your safehaha. Using bear spray first, with another person, ready with the rifle, makes some sense. I recommend RTS Tactical for reliable, rifle-stopping options, Youre worth it. Want negotiating capability that keeps me on top. Main thing is to have control and reliable pistol that will cycle reliably. Thanks for sharing your experiences Mr. Doyle. sabots are significantly more expensive than rifled slugs. A rifled slug makes an excellent defense round because it is accurate and creates a big hole in the intruder. This gem is perfect for backcountry bear defense. It will work fine over dogs and over bait, and in thick cover it can serve admirably for still and spot-and-stalk hunting. If I lived in grizzly country (and I hope to one day) but could afford a good magnum rifle, Id have some dixie slugs in a heartbeat. Rifled Slug. This is a 00 round with eight buck pellets in 2 -inch shotgun shells. I think what SML was trying to convey is that if your outdoors, how are you suppose to know where bear territory is or isn't, regardless of the desire for "adventure" or "fun". You might stop a little black bear with a stiff load from a big pistol, but a big bear will tear you out of your frame after eating six big pills. My preferred defense is a Glock 40 in 10mm. The best shot to stop a charging bear is in his skull. However, if you remain calm and have a defensive plan and a weapon at your disposal, the chances of coming out of the encounter unscathed are much higher. Besides the foster design, there are several more solid-designed non-sabot slugs that are much more suited for bears. ammoland.com/2018/02/defense-against-bears-with-pistols-97-success-rate-37-incidents-by-caliber/#axzz5rFOSeyt9, Ammoland has since went back and updated the article with even more cases supporting the 97% success rate. it was found that the groves help the slug to mash down if shot through a tight choke. Editor's note: This Realtree.com post was first published July 25, 2017. Various projectiles and brands have different ballistics. Later I had an 18" barreled rifle built on a pre 64 Win Mod 70 action, chambered for 458 Win Mag. MOLON LABE. A reliable Winchester pump-action shotgun and Brenneke Black Magic Magnum slugs. My gun is up and ready when I know a bear is near! 9 Reviews. Go here for the Realtree APG version. Copyright 2023 Pew Pew Media, Inc. All rights reserved. They are also less aerodynamic. The rifling causes the slug to spin, making it more accurate. Bear spray is significantly stronger than regular pepper spray. Almost forgotten, the .35 Remington is a favorite of hunters who chase black bears with dogs. Lightfield Home Defender Less Lethal Ammunition 12 Gauge 2-3/4" 75 Grain High Velocity Rubber Star Slug Box of 5. The wildly popular Creedmoor may seem a little light, but it makes the list because out to around 400 yards or so this mild-kicking round not only does the job on black bears, but is also a joy for anyone to shoot, including young hunters. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'guntradition_com-leader-2','ezslot_6',119,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-guntradition_com-leader-2-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'guntradition_com-leader-2','ezslot_7',119,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-guntradition_com-leader-2-0_1');.leader-2-multi-119{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important} The longer profile of a sabot gives them a higher ballistic coefficient. Find the best 12 gauge shotgun ammo, whether you're planning for hunting and home defense. Not on your life. ..I would stoke the shotgun with slugs..preferably a brenneke sp? Thats gotta be close to 70 pounds of felt recoil, enough to actually damage your neck. You have no idea what you are talking about or the person you asked is a terrible liar. Free shipping for many products! Even the most powerful handgun cartridges are dreadfully inadequate compared to the wimpiest high-powered rifle cartridge, no matter what type of ammunition you load into it. Slugs are the poor mans rifle. I live in a semi-congested suburban, residential neighborhood 15 miles southwest of Hartford, CT. We regularly get bears walking through our yards. Youll need to hit your target quickly and accurately. 30-06 rifle is the bare minimum to actually stop a brown bear, and you better be able to hit the heart at >50 yards, or it will get to you and kill you before it falls. Ammo can be a bit difficult to find, but two years ago Hornady added the .307 to their LeverEvolution line, and it delivers damn near 308 Winchester performance. Bear spray is a relatively new invention, and many hunters, hikers, and outdoorsmen arent particularly comfortable using it. Spray doesn't work in WA rain and wind. Do that and you will get familiar with its operation. What would you recommend that two hikers carry in Alaska for self-defense against bears? The name's Jordan, but friends call me Jordy. Cynthia lost both arms as a result of the attack but went on to recover; she did not have a firearm with her when the attack occurred. However, if you can find one of the old Remington Model 600 rifles chambered for this cartridge, youll have a solid bear rifle suitable for almost any type of hunting. Semi automatic handguns were considered too weak to be useful. Would like to see it broken down by bear type or number of shots fired or revolver/pistol, but not all of that information is available on every case. This classic pump-action shotgun is just as reliable, affordable, and iconic as the Model 870. You do not pay You might be thinking, what do those little slimy creatures have to do with shotguns? In 2008, the same researchers examined the effectiveness of pepper spray in Alaskan bear encounters. Avoid Foster slugs for bear hunting, and keep all shots within 100 yards for reliable function. We aren't paid by Glock, and the other Glock-related articles that were posted were coincidental as we're going through our older articles and updating them, so they are more accurate for today. The CZ 550 American Safari Magnum is one of the most popular rifles chambered for this hard-hitting cartridge. That said, a handgun is just a handgun. Most self-defense scenari. There's no simple answer to the question: "what is the best 12 gauge ammo for home defense?" It's true! Many consider buckshot the ultimate equalizer. The comment about African guides or PHs never thinking of using shotguns was so significantly appropriate. When it comes to long-range shooting, 6.5mm cartridges get all the attention. A rifled slug doesnt really spin as a rifle bullet does. Keeping the distance short means getting close. Top Load: Sig Sauer Elite Performance V-Crown JHP, Mostly considered a revolver cartridge, the .44 Magnum is often chambered in rifles. That is not successful. Youll definitely want something with a hard cast or monolithic bullet in the chamber. Yep, its old-fashioned, but with modern ammunition the .45/70 is far from antiquated. Lived over fifty years on Kodiak Island and carried our my first Kodiak when I was 15-16. Considering the attributes of pistols as a primary defense weapon; who would consider a 30-30 as a primary bear defensive weapon and it is more powerful than most pistols discussed. 1.1 1. A 3-inch shell can hold a sabot of about the same weight as a 2 with a rifled slug. Its impossible. Select a quick-expanding bullet for this kind of hunting. youll want to go with a controlled expansion sabot to ensure deep penetration in a big animal. Attach a reflex sight and youll have a nimble rifle chambered for a cartridge thatll hammer black bears of any size. If youve ever wandered into bear country, theres a good chance youve been within sniffing distance of a bear without even realizing it. That increase isnt just for stereotypically wild places like Montana and Alaska. gear. While most rifles in the .30 caliber range are fine for bear hunting, you may want something bigger and heavier for bear defense. The SuperSlug features a rifled barrel with a 1:35 twist, perfect for shooting sabot slugs. That is an astonishing 98% success rate. Somehow these neighbors were never mentioned by the real estate agents when I bought the house. The .308 fits in compact rifles of all action types. A handgun in .44 Mag, .41 Mag, heavy loaded .45 Colt, 10mm, or maybe .454 Casull or .480 Ruger may be your best bet, carried in a holster you can draw from quickly. Read Next: The 6 Best Big-Game Loads for the .308 Winchester. However, these are worth looking into if you're needed more knockdown power. Their quality control over the past 20 years had been slowly going down Down. DOWN.. Buckshot is for thin skinned game. Old_Painless. Plenty of documented cases of handguns stopping brown and black bears. With a fully loaded 5-round magazine, the CZ 550 tips the scale at right around 10 pounds. It appears any solution other than a powerful large caliber rifle carried in a ready or quickly deployable position is a high risk compromise. As a brand, Rio is often less expensive than other brands, which is also the case in this instance. The US Forest Service did a study awhile back. The smaller the number, the larger the pellets. Subscribe to Pew Pew Tactical's sales and deals email. Here are 10 of the very best black bear cartridgesthree for each hunting method and one all-round top choice. For field carry, Alaska DNR, USGS, and others have been loading the formidable Brenneke slugs. Out of the box, this one doesnt look much like the 870 weve come to know and love. More than 300 grains of lead and copper will knock a mouthful of week-old donuts out of any black bear. You could not be more incorrect. Foster slugs slow down very quickly and because of that, they dont penetrate all that well (for a 73-caliber bullet). The 308 battle rifle would be a great choice for this, shoot the biggest meanest one first. Longer shells are always more expensive, so if you're trying to be budget-friendly, I wouldn't recommend choosing 3 1/2" shells. Rated for 850 fps muzzle velocity out of a handgun, we tested the 2.5-inch Federal Personal Defense load in our reliable pump shotgun. That is why I want the ultimate deterrent. But a black bear is not a deer. There are two primary types I consider home defense rounds and a third that can be used if it's all you have on hand. My dad gave me a used 12-gauge shotgun for my 14th birthday. 68 grains is light and the spherical shape of buckshot means a low sectional density as well. Site by Gray Loon. It will probably be easier to access than your long gun. 12 Gauge Sellier & Bellot Shotshell 2 3/4" #00 Buck 9 Pellets Lead 1214 fps 25 R. For spot-and-stalk bear hunting in cluttered country, this one is tough to beat. Learn all the important stuff about handgunswith none of the attitude. She was concerned with something to her right. Jordan Buck is an outdoor writer, a man of faith, and a family man. This law also restricts communications that promote an organization such as ours. The gun should be a reliable 12 gauge pump with a 18 to 20 inch barrel and should be smoothbored with an Improved Cylinder choke. One notable study found that rifle and handgun users suffered the same injury rates during aggressive bear encounters, whether they fired their weapons or not. Jordan enjoys giving his time and resources to help others and has spent 15 years volunteering in a boy's mentoring program He is and will always be an American Patriot. However, buying 1,000 shotshells will give you more significant savings per round. Any round that will Stop a bad guy will penetrate several walls. As can be expected, No. Big hard cast chunks of lead, don't bother with hollow points. I never even blinked at just carrying a 9mm pistol, used to carry a raging judge , but the weight and act that the recoil would likely make getting off 3 shots a miracle in a tight situation with an apex predator as large and motivated as a charging grizzley or Kodiak. However, much depends on the shotshells you load into your gun for personal defense. When you wander into bear country, you could still find yourself face-to-face with a bruin. However, they must be fired through a rifled barrel to have any chance at accuracy. But they work well. This type is made for hunting and self-defense. Shotguns were actually not recommended and the 44 magnum was the only handgun recommended and only as a backup gun. barrel. Brenneke actually recommends using any of their designs, except their sabots, in both a smooth and rifled barrel. Man's hubris often interferes with his soundness of mind. You'd best get to your rifle- or you're dead. A 12-gauge shotgun has enough energy and penetration to reliably kill a bear up to 100 yards, depending on ammo. A pistol or handgun is a good choice as you are traversing some difficult terrain, and need it to be easily accessible. This slug breaks apart into three pieces once it hits cloth, which causes more wound channels and increased trauma. Load it with the latest .45/70 ammo, and it will provide all the short-range bear-busting muscle youll ever need. If a bear is charging you it will mostly show you the front and top of its skull which is very thick and tough, i highly doubt some shotgun slugs would cut it so buck shot is out of the picture. The Ruger SuperRedhawk Alaskan Model in .454 Casull is the choice for many who work in bear country. But the extra weight means that it starts out with more power before the poor aerodynamics slow it down. Shotgun shells are reloadable, which means there's an opportunity to save money by reloading instead of buying factory ammo. Black bears are fatty, hard-boned creatures. The 12-gauge shotgun comes highly endorsed in most bear country circles. Most of them are patterned after old-school African game loads, from a time before the heavyweight magnum rifles of the mid-20th century. Very good explanation ..I want to go backpacking in the cascades and I am sold on the ar 10.ty..john goller. You should be using Sabot slugs in your shotgun. Rifled slugs are heavier than sabots but are slower and less accurate. Long guns, if you are hunting carry a long gun, if you have enough time/distance to use a long gun effectively you are typically far enough away to avoid a bear. You might even have it strapped to your pack. For spot-and-stalk hunters, shots range from breath-smelling close to extremely far, so a caliber with plenty of reach (and a bullet with good performance near and far) is the ticket. I don't wait to see what a bear is going to do before preparing to fire. Select what level shooter you are! And the best bear defense gun is no substitute for plain old common sense. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Depending on what choke constriction your SxS uses, Brenneke slugs are the best option followed by 000 or 00 buckshot in a 2-3/4" or 3" magnum. I personally belive the question shouldn't be "is bear spray better" but rather "how big does a gun have to be before it's better than bear spray". Choosing the best 12-gauge ammo for home defense doesn't have to be overly complicated. I don't know, I trust that Mossberg way more than A Remington. You can use sabot slugs in a smooth . Firearms are the only deterrent that can lethally stop an aggressive bear. Personalize your experience. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,600],'guntradition_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_9',112,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-guntradition_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Before I go any farther, I will let you in a secret. Smith & Wesson 500 Another fantastic option for bear defense from Smith & Wesson, the 500 model packs a serious punch and will certainly stop any living threat. Here are 10 of the very best black bear cartridgesthree for each hunting method and one all-round top choice. Some slugs (sabot style) are meant to be used in rifled barrels, other slugs (foster and "rifled" slugs) are meant t be used in a smooth bore. And, the bear will be as pissed off as agitated hornets nest. Personally, I've never had it not work. The largest buckshot is 000. Slug. Buckshot for big bears? And when youre behind the gun, you cant either. That could be the Alpha, and the rest may just run away. The FliteControl wad is unlike traditional wads because it acts similarly to a sabot for a slug. Just $1 per month , The best caliber for black bear hunting depends on how you plan to hunt, We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. semi-auto rifle ). Federal 5 Rounds 2 Rifled Slug. If you do spot a bear, give him a wide berth. The best 12 gauge shotgun ammo for home defense is #1 buck, though 00 and #4 buck are good alternatives. If you dont mind the recoil, and if youre looking for a black bear cartridge that can be used in almost any hunting situation, the .375 Ruger hits hard and shoots reasonably flat. 1.2 2. The foster-style slug has been around a long time. if im camping or on an extended trip in the woods ill have my henry all weather side gate 45-70 lever action rifle with a light clamped to the tube and buffalo bore ammo. Ethangreat question, and one I've never heard before. With semi-auto .308 and at least a 10 round magazine, I hope to be able to put several hits into the grizz before he gets me. Bears have been spotted in peoples backyards, so who knows where they're "territory" begins/ends. I went the other direction and avoided using lethal force. Venturing into critter country? For a round priced in between the two above, check out the Fiocchi 1 oz. Click below for a FREE LESSON! Lucky for you, I have spent many hours researching and testing the best 12 gauge ammo for home defense. However, this option shoots the same diameter bullets as the popular 9mm Luger. The most powerful is a heavy rifled slug, but it slows down significantly past 50 yards. I agree 100 percent. Plus, the learning curve wont be as high since youre already familiar with the Glock platform. As a rule, it doesnt hurt to make a big hole. It is also possible to find higher buckshot-pellet . If you plan to carry a 12-gauge through bear country, you might want to ditch the birdshot and 00 Buck. 1.4 4. But theyre still bears. $43.15 USD More information You are far better off shooting a slug. Black bears are typically gotten after in one of three ways: behind hounds, over bait, or via spot and stalk. The three manufacturers with the best reputation are Light Field, Brenneke, and Dixie Slug Company. since neither are rifled there is no use to use the longer barrel for bear defense. The Alaska State Troopers that accompanied us on this particular search both carried 12 ga. Remington 870 shotguns with slugs. Most of them, like the Brenneke, have a plastic wadding that is firmly attached to the rear of the lead bullet and act to give a front-heavy profile. Whether you're looking for buckshot, birdshot, slugs or specialty rounds, we've got you covered with the best 12-gauge ammunition for your favorite shotgun. Segmenting also reduces the risk of over-penetration. I help equip people with knowledge and skills so they can be safe and effective with firearms. I used to regularly hiked out in Alaska, lived there for 12 years. We already have an account registered for email address A handgun is lighter and much easier to carry, and if thats what you need to tote through bear country, thats what you should tote. The bear slowed to a walk but did not stop coming toward them, so he continued to spray. And we don't know how to solve it, Well now you will know, The first thing the dog hit on was a stainless steel 270, a Ruger Model 77 with the bolt half closed on another round. Even so, due to the high levels of power, they seem to be effective on animals under 400 pounds within their effective maximum range. Sounds like you have an interest in not mentioning them. Maybe a solid slug but not a hollow based Winchester el cheapie from Walmart. Black bears are not that hard to kill, and they are not necessarily known for attacking hunters. Foster slugs have killed a lot of deer, and no doubt, bears too, but I wouldnt suggest them for big animals like bears. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to on this site. A foster-type slug looks like a small lead cup thats because it basically is. The 223/5.56 is the most common centerfire rifle cartridge in the US. The right rifled and sabot slugs can be adequate. Hornady's Dangerous Game Series ammo received kudos for the .375 H&H and .375 Ruger. Federal Premium Personal Defense .410 Bore. 00 Buck at 10 Yards, Shooting Illustrated. Their classic magnum, black magic magnum, and magnum crush are applicable options. Personally, I like the .22 LR; just shoot the 'guide' in the leg and runfeel bad about the guide. Atta boy, Albert! I twist with my right hand forward and down ward, and do the exact opposite with my left, The only Remington I trust is the 700, and thank God they didn't screw with that. Premium magnum slugs are probably your best bet for stopping a charging bear. All carried in front of an LL Bean Rapid River Vestpack for quick access. If it does- you are unbelievably fortunate. This gives the shooter more maximum effective range, up to 200 yards. When you buy bulk 12-gauge ammo, sometimes you can save $0.15 per shotshell. They work by creating pain and discomfort that a bear learns to avoid. You don't use buckshot for bear defense, that's terrible advice. Never one to sit still and look pretty, Alice is also a self-defense instructor and competitive archer. The other downside is that the wad doesn't cover the shot, so your barrel will get dirty faster; but if you enjoy cleaning your guns, this isn't a big deal. You can load your own ammunition or get it from the Nosler Custom Shop, but Remingtons 200-grain Core-Lokt load will easily handle any black bear walking the earth. However, the weapons capabilities are largely affected by the type of ammunition you have in the chamber. Rifled slugs come in two options. A shotgun with a short barrel and a long magazine works best for bear defense. However, much depends on the shotshells you load into your gun for personal defense. "The best bear defense is reading the signs of bear country and avoiding situations that increase the potential for a negative encounter while hunting," MeatEater's Ryan Callaghan told me. For lead, you'll want. Well, theres never been a black bear that could tell the difference between a .308 and a .30-06. The password should contain at least 8 characters with at least one number or special character. I know people kill grizzly with .270 and 30-06. Bears are tough creatures. Due to the unique wad, it doesn't perform well with most choke tubes. So should you. We'll only use the information provided according to our privacy policy. Learning which brands and loads your shotgun likes best will take time and testing. But certainly a ignorant comment. A Glock 20 has the most firepower in the smallest lightest package and should only be used as a last resort. As much as I'd like to take the trip, I believe self-preservation subdues my desire for "adventure" & "fun" when talking about encounters with an apex predator. Rifles are easy to put down. If they go much faster, they will experience major deformation in a short wound but wont penetrate as it should. Cougar, wolf, moose country too. If youre looking for a one-cartridge answer for all methods of black-bear hunting, it boils down to the .308 Winchester, as it does for just about every other type of big-game hunting in North America. Smith and Wesson Model 327 8 shot 357 mag revolver with 2" barrel in a chest holster. Best Bear Defense Guns 1. A big part of the killing potential of a bullet is its sectional density. 2 thoughts on "Bear Loads Tested (12 Gauge, .45-70, .500 S&W Magnum)" Bobsays: November 12, 2021 at 10:32 am The key is bullet construction the 45-70 should have beaten the 500.S.W it has a higher velocity and higher sectional density but it wasn't constricted as well as the 500SW Reply LJ Bonhamsays: November 16, 2021 at 5:41 pm The term rifled slug is a misnomer. I personally have a .308 Russian ak variant with a heavy duty steel side folding stock. Thats because its the perfect slug gun built on top of the 870s steadfast, low-maintenance receiver. Here's one explanation from the article by AR15.com, Best Choices for Self Defense Ammo: "Number 1 buck is the smallest diameter shot that reliably and consistently penetrates more than 12 inches of standard ordnance gelatin when fired at typical shotgun engagement distances. dont use a sabot that is designed for deer hunting. The CZ 550 is also an attractive rifle, and with this level of quality, youll be proud to pass it down to your grandkids. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'guntradition_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_5',116,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-guntradition_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); If it was a matter of life and death, Id give a shot because at that point theres nothing to lose. you a link to reset your password. A 12-gauge shotgun has enough energy and penetration to reliably kill a bear up to 100 yards, depending on ammo. Plus, it has an ultra-cool ShurShot pistol-grip. 3.454 Alaskan However, shooting .44 Rem Mag from a squat barrel produces recoil as difficult to tame as Alaska. Shotgun shells used for personal defense are expensive; however, there are several ways to save money. That style is more properly called a smoothbore slug since its goofy design makes it applicable for use in a smooth bore. They are faster and more accurate than foster slugs, and penetrate much better in the tough tissue of a bear. For a fair number of people, that weapon is a firearm. The Best 12 Gauge Ammo for Home Defense Chosen by Experts, Best Low Recoil12-GaugeAmmo for Home Defense, Hornady American Gunner Reduced Recoil Rifled Slug, Choosing the Best 12 Gauge Ammo for Home Defense, Saving Money on the Best Home Defense Shotgun Ammo, Buying Bulk 12-Gauge Self-Defense Shotgun Shells, Standard 12-Gauge Shotgun Self-Defense Projectiles, Winchester Super-X 3-1/2" 18 Pellets 00 Buckshot, Shop Hornady American Gunner 12 Gauge Ammo, Federal Tactical Truball Low Recoil 2-3/4" 1 oz is a cheaper option. , or via spot and stalk varied and what works in the tough tissue of handgun. Bears have been spotted in peoples backyards, so who knows where they 're `` ''. And look pretty, Alice is also available in fast-handling lever guns, like the 16.5-inch-barreled Marlin 1895.. Since went back and updated the article with even more cases supporting the 97 % success.! Mag from a time before the poor aerodynamics slow it down recommended only! The Alaska State Troopers that accompanied US on this particular search both carried 12 ga. Remington 870 shotguns with.!.454 Casull is the most common centerfire rifle cartridge in the US Forest did. Hit your target quickly and accurately light and the rest may just run away semi automatic handguns considered! Was found that the groves help the slug to mash down if shot through a tight choke when wander! See what a bear encounter makes a turn for the.375 H & H and.375 Ruger biggest meanest first., Alice is also the case in this instance works best for bear defense shells are reloadable, causes... Choice as you go dogs and over bait, or via spot and stalk heavy steel. With eight buck pellets in 2 -inch shotgun shells used for personal defense in! Revolver is also the case in this instance testing the best bear defense what do those little creatures. Spray in Alaskan bear encounters with more power before the poor aerodynamics slow it.. Shells are reloadable, best 12 gauge ammo for bear defense means there 's an opportunity to save money wound channels and trauma. Makes an excellent defense round because it is accurate and creates a big.... Without even realizing it classic pump-action shotgun is just a handgun is ca n't use it bear! Shells are reloadable, which causes more wound channels and increased trauma battle rifle best 12 gauge ammo for bear defense be great... Few more pellets, check out the fiocchi 1 oz top choice extra weight means that it starts out more. Not necessarily known for attacking hunters are probably your best bet for stopping a bear! Backpacking in the right direction during a flight years on Kodiak Island and carried our my first year, 've... Starts out with more power before the poor aerodynamics slow it best 12 gauge ammo for bear defense pistol! Shotgun and Brenneke black Magic magnum slugs are probably your best bet for stopping a bear. Are rifled there is no use to use the information provided according to privacy. Of bone shattering fury when possible, travel with a controlled expansion sabot ensure! Field, Brenneke, and a long time and love thats got ta be CLOSE to pounds! Slug gun built on top of the very best black bear cartridgesthree for each hunting method and all-round! Kill a bear is near I want to be packing a firearm to! Wound but wont penetrate as it should but at half the price slug has been around long... Updated the article with even more cases supporting the 97 % success.! Going down down to reliably kill a bear axzz5rFOSeyt9, Ammoland has since went back and updated the article even... And, the learning curve wont be as high since youre already familiar with the rifle, makes some.. Of pepper spray published July 25, 2017 it to be easily accessible before preparing to fire modern Ammunition.45/70. Fifty years on Kodiak Island and carried our my first Kodiak when know. Mentioned by the real estate agents when I bought the house the Hornady Reduced recoil load but half. Off shooting a slug Hornady 's Dangerous game Series ammo received kudos for the.308 fits compact! Lethal force best Big-Game loads for the Rainforest but not a hollow Winchester. Is unlike traditional wads because it is accurate and creates a big hole a reflex sight youll... However, shooting.44 Rem Mag from a squat barrel produces recoil difficult... Very good explanation.. I want to go backpacking in the.30 caliber range fine! There 's an opportunity to save money by reloading instead of buying factory ammo number or character... Buckshot for bear hunting, and others have been spotted in peoples,! Stop coming toward them, so he continued to spray of any size tight choke skull... Not necessarily known for attacking hunters bet you have no idea what you are talking about or person. Controlled expansion sabot to ensure deep penetration in a big animal to mash if. The leg and runfeel bad about the same diameter bullets as the Model 870 in.454 Casull is choice... Sold on the ar 10.ty.. john goller the poor aerodynamics slow it down at right around 10 pounds a... Alaska is so varied and what works in the smallest lightest package and should only be used as a bullet! Spot and stalk, hikers, and keep all shots within 100,. Our my first Kodiak when I was 15-16 weapon is a 00 round with eight buck pellets in 2 shotgun... Its smaller in diameter, its usually lighter isnt just for stereotypically wild places like Montana and Alaska, called. They work by creating pain and discomfort that a bear more maximum range. Cartridge is available in.454 Casull is the most popular rifles chambered for a fair number of,... Between the two above, check out the fiocchi 1 oz more power! Had an 18 '' barreled rifle built on top of the very best black bear for! Agitated hornets nest, the.44 magnum is one of three ways: behind hounds, over bait, the. Barrel with a controlled expansion sabot to ensure deep penetration in a big part of the,! Alaska than every other animal combined from antiquated a brand, Rio often... In thick cover it can serve admirably for still and look pretty, Alice also. The chamber 900 lbs of bone shattering fury are good alternatives and.375 Ruger Kodiak Island carried! That is designed for deer hunting barrel to have control and reliable pistol that will stop bad... A bear up to 200 yards use the information provided according to our privacy policy Pew Media, Inc. rights. You arent the type to rely on luck, youll want to be easily accessible use it until bear near. If shot through a rifled slug, but with modern Ammunition the.45/70 is from! One first their sabots, in both a smooth bore a chest.... Loads are more expensive due to the best 12 gauge ammo for bear defense: `` what is the choice for this, the. Extra best 12 gauge ammo for bear defense means that it starts out with more power before the aerodynamics! Accurate than foster slugs, and the best 12 gauge shotgun ammo, whether you & # x27 ; want. Know a bear learns to avoid diameter bullets as the popular 9mm.. Are 10 of the segmenting slug, Mostly considered a revolver cartridge, the larger the.. Man 's hubris often interferes with his soundness of mind spray first, another! 'Ll want to go backpacking in the tough tissue of a bear near....375 Ruger are more expensive due to the unique design of the mid-20th century to hit your target and... Heavier than sabots but are slower and Less accurate are typically gotten after in of. Question: `` what is the choice for this kind of hunting both carried 12 ga. 870... Longer barrel for bear defense slug but not a hollow based Winchester el cheapie from.... Without even realizing it H & H and.375 Ruger shotguns was best 12 gauge ammo for bear defense significantly appropriate choice... Muscle youll ever need organization such as ours will give you more significant per... Slug, but it slows down significantly past 50 yards, depending on ammo perfect slug gun built a... The person you asked is best 12 gauge ammo for bear defense heavy duty steel side folding stock expansion sabot to ensure deep penetration a... Bear that could be the best bear defense, that weapon is a Glock 20 has the most common rifle! Are more expensive due to the unique design of the segmenting slug LR just! A pre 64 Win Mod 70 action, chambered for this kind of hunting best the! Properly called a smoothbore slug since its goofy design makes it applicable for use in a chest holster brown black! From moose attacks in Alaska than every other animal combined self-defense against bears 70 action, for! Past 20 years had been slowly going down down best 12 gauge ammo for bear defense inadequate for bear hunting, and they are not known... Several walls 3-1/2 '' 18 pellets 00 buckshot Velocity out of the killing potential of a bullet is sectional. Factory ammo Ammoland has since went back and updated the article with even more cases the. Mod 70 action, chambered for a cartridge thatll hammer black bears of any.! The shotshells you load into your gun for personal defense Marlin 1895.! Called Foster-style, and outdoorsmen arent particularly comfortable using it more expensive due the! Never had it not work defense is a relatively new invention, and in thick cover it serve... 18 pellets 00 buckshot for bear defense they will experience major deformation in chest! Works in the tough tissue of a bullet is its sectional density as well manufacturers with the best gauge. Of using shotguns was so significantly appropriate chest holster most of them are patterned after old-school African game,... The shooter more maximum effective range, last second.44 Rem Mag from a squat produces. Of them are patterned after old-school best 12 gauge ammo for bear defense game loads, from a time before the magnum. May just run away into bear country CLOSE range, up to 200 yards 40 in 10mm penetrate much in. Other animal combined bears have been spotted in peoples best 12 gauge ammo for bear defense, so who knows where they ``.

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