Hello, I am new to the forum. I just wanted some input regarding ammo selection for black bear hunting in NY state (typically an

[cardo111]

Hello, I am new to the forum. I just wanted some input regarding ammo selection for black bear hunting in NY state (typically anywhere from 200-400lbs). I will be using a ground blind or stalking; the use of bait for big game hunting is illegal in the state. Are Winchester Super-X 180 gr. silvertips adequate for busting a shoulder and doing the job well provided I do mine? I have some of this ammo on hand (30-06 bolt-action), is it necessary to spend $45. for a box of Federal Trophy bonded tips or $50. for Winchester Supreme Elites or other premium bullets for this task? Also if you don't mind, do you recommend using a bore guide when cleaning with a Tipton one piece rod and a brass cleaning jag, in order to prevent damaging the chamber/rifling? I thank you all in advance for your thoughts/ suggestions.

[bonnier-admin_2]

For Black Bear using a 30-06, any 180 grain Soft point will do just fine. As far as using a bore guide I find it a must!

[Del in KS]

You can make a good bore guide for a bolt gun or single shot by drilling out the base of a fired case to bore diameter. Chamber the case and run your rod thru it.

[Jim in Mo]

For bears your doing fine.

[shane]

I would go for the lung shot behind the shoulder.

[Walt Smith]

Silver tips are great bullets , I've used them for years but I've found that they have a tendency to seperate upon impact, which is fine for deer sized game but for bear you might want to buy a box of Remington Corelocs. Same 180 grain and they're only about 17.00 a box but they are a bonded bullet that won't come apart on heaver muscled game like black bear. Definatly shoot for right behind the front shoulder not into it.

[idduckhntr]

I have shot the original Win Silver tip all my life this is the one with the alloy tip you should'nt have a problem taken a bear with that bullet. But $45 sounds a little steap there usally about $25 a box if you go with Trophy Bonded than I would shoot it at every thing.

[Big O]

I used up all mine on white-tails or I'd send you some.
Ive never had the opp. to shoot a bear but had an aacuaintence who was a guide for them and you should'nt have a problem. Good luck and good hunting !

[hunterkid94]

30-06. or 25-06 or a 270 might be a bit much but you can still put em down.

[KingFisher907]

welcome to the site...that is a great set-up for blackies and I use the exact bullets with good success...you'll do fine...seen any bears out yet? its gonna be another week or two here in alaska...

[Big O]

I liked Dels Idea about using an old case for a bore guide,I'll be making mine today. Thanks Del in KS.

[kyle7735]

i would like to use somthing tougher than a super x

if you could find some swift a frames in 3006 thats what i would use

[rudyglove27]

Agreed with Walt Smith answer above and A + 1 for you sir!!!