In fact, a fellow I know who trapped Black Bear for a major forest products company felt the 240 grain HP gave him quicker kills than heavier bullets BECAUSE they expand. The only reason that we use heavier bullets, like hard casts, is for increased penetration. Although it's possible to run into a huge Black Bear that might require more penetration than some 240 44 mag HPs give, it's more probable that you'll drop the average size (or even above average size) black in its tracks with that 240 grain slug than one which doesn't expand. The XTP is a pretty tough bullet and excellent for this use.