ok so after all this arguing between you guys, ive decided to go with the 25-06. but i just want to know how good they would be

[hunterkid94]

ok so after all this arguing between you guys, ive decided to go with the 25-06. but i just want to know how good they would be for west virginia black bear?

[Reid Jones]

i have heard of the 270 taking black bear commonly. a 25-06 would surely take a black bear. just make sure you're using a heavier grain weight and shot placement will be important. but you will be fine.

[Del in KS]

Use a good bullet and it will kill the biggest black Bear that ever walked.

[rabbitpolice88]

I would never hunt a bear with a 25-06, just not good survival instincts. Plus If you go with a guide you know he's going to wish it was a bigger gun.

[rezavoirdog]

Okay, as I said before to Reid Jones: "Increase the weight to at least 100 Grains. Hornady 117 Grain SST are a good deer bullet; Remington 100 Grain or 120 Grain PSP; Winchester Supreme 110 Grain Accubonds."

[bonnier-admin_2]

25-06 on Black Bear?

Shoot "MOP" and there shouldn't be a problem!

[idduckhntr]

I would shoot a 270 with a 150 grain nosler

[Walt Smith]

180 grain 30-06, bears have teeth and claws.

[Big O]

If you've decided to get a 06 anyway, go ahead and just get the .30-06. It may save your life! Like Walt said they have tooth and claws and WILL eat you if properly motivated(shot poorly)and given a chance.
Good luck and Good hunting !!

[DakotaMan]

I wouldn't hesitate with the 25-06... this is where a premium 117 to 120 grain bullet (I like Barnes)is best. Most people don't understand the penetration and killing power of the .257 bullet. With black bear, you just have to be prepared to penetrate more brush and more fur. Therefore don't use 90 grain or smaller bullets. Black bear aren't like hunting rhinos, they are flesh and blood. I doubt that you will ever stop a good 120 grain bullet with a black bear and their shocking power has to be seen to be believed.

[steve182]

Shoot just BEHIND the shoulder, not into it. Use the 117 or 120gr bullet.

[hunt_fish_sleep]

.30-06 220 grain core lokt. Knock that bear on his @$$.

[texasmcintyre]

.25-06 is a great gun. I have used one my whole life less of a child (.243). The difference between a .25-06 and .30-06 is the lead. The .25-06 goes further and gets there faster.

[007]

Speed isn't always the best answer. With the Ursus family you need bullet weight and penetration. Nothing lighter than 150 grain WELL MADE bullets need apply. Good hunting.

[007]

Another thought here. What type of hunting are you talking about, with hounds or what? If you're talking about following the dogs, you don't really need a long range round, something more close range with a heavier bullet at a slower speed is more appropriate generally. Welcome to the bear hunting fraternity.