340PD for bear protection

[daveyc]

I live in maine and we have lots of black bear up here. I wouldnt worry too much about black bear. I have had numerous encounters and every one has resulted in the bear running away from me at high speed. even the curious ones will run once you holler at them.

as far as a gun is concerned. Black Bear are not especially hard to kill. a solid .357 bullet of 158 or 180 gr would suffice. I would not be too concerned about recoil. I have found that anytime i have fired at game, i have never once felt the recoil or even heard the shot. must be a little bit of adrenaline affecting me. practice with lighter loads and carry the heavy stuff. you will never feel the kick if you ever have to use it. and chances are you will not have to.

 

[cerescorubi]

I love my 340PD and carry is almost every day with 158 grain SWC .357 Magnum loads. It is so easy to carry and .357 are so much hotter than any 38 Special +P load. Not everyone can shoot it with this load. If it was all you had that would be my suggestion. That said, In the woods especially if big bears are a possibility, I always carry something bigger. I have seen the big tracks and heard the stories. Maybe a bigger L or N Frame .357 with longer barrel, but this is where my 44 or 45 Mountain Guns get the call. Good luck and remember you will get lots of advise on here and much of it will be emphatic but contrary. It is up to you to decide such an importmant choice. Good Luck.

 

[murphydog]

It’s been six weeks since the OP was here. Another bear thread for the archives…thread closed.