Quick Answer
For brown bear hunting, I recommend using 338 Lapua Magnum, 375 Chey Tac, or 416 Rigby cartridges. These magnums deliver sufficient kinetic energy to effectively drop big bears. A well-placed shot with these cartridges can be a vital component of a successful hunt.
Choosing the Right Magnum
The 338 Lapua Magnum is a popular choice among bear hunters due to its excellent balance of power and manageable recoil. For a 338 Lapua Magnum, a 250- or 270-grain bullet at 2,600-2,700 feet per second can provide more than enough kinetic energy to drop a large bear. This cartridge’s flat trajectory and precision accuracy make it ideal for long-distance shots, which are often necessary when hunting big bears.
Hunting at Longer Distances
When hunting at longer distances, a 338 Lapua Magnum with a 250- or 270-grain bullet can be an excellent choice. These bullets can deliver up to 4,000 foot-pounds of kinetic energy, which is more than enough to drop a large bear. To maximize accuracy, use a high-quality scope with a 5- to 10-power zoom and a reticle designed for long-range shooting.
The Importance of Bullet Design
A well-designed bullet can make all the difference in a bear hunt. Look for bullets with a high ballistic coefficient, which will help maintain accuracy at longer distances. For bear hunting, a bullet with a flat, expanding tip is also essential. This type of bullet will expand quickly upon impact, creating maximum damage to the bear.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.