Best shotgun for bear defense Learn about the best firearms and training tips for surviving bear encounters. Even though they’re generally Jul 9, 2024 · Exploring the best handguns for bear defense, effectiveness of warning shots, performance of various calibers, and other real-world stats Feb 5, 2025 · With bear attacks increasing in certain regions, you may be looking for non-lethal self-defense options beyond firearms. Essential to that preparedness is selecting a firearm and caliber capable of providing effective protection should a dangerous encounter occur. Find out what makes a great big-game May 18, 2021 · Choosing the best black bear cartridge depends on how you hunt. Rifles are great when you’ve got both hands free, but a handgun is the last line of defense when a bear charges from the brush. Here’s a look at the best bear defense cartridges ever made. for a cabin. Be sure to know the state laws when it comes to purchasing and carrying either a gun or pepper spray, including home storage and how to transport them in your vehicle to and from the trailhead. Jan 14, 2025 · A chance encounter with a bear in the backcountry can quickly turn from a breathtaking wildlife sighting into a terrifying fight for survival. Aug 4, 2022 · You won’t have to worry about reliability with a Weatherby shotgun, and paired with Federal’s TruBall Deep Penetrator rifled slug, it makes a formidable bear-defense tool. I've personally used a couple on a black bear, and had excellent performance. Here’s a comparison of the most common bear defense weapons. And finally, you will access reviews about the five best home defense tactical shotguns and still pick the clear winner. Feb 2, 2024 · My go-to shotguns for bear defense are the Benelli M-1 Tactical and M-4. A big bear is a very different matter. Apr 18, 2024 · Venturing into critter country? We go over some of the best bear guns from shotguns to rifles and even big bore handguns. . If a firearm is used in self-defense against a bear, contact park authorities immediately. Bear spray is also on hand, curious if the shotgun would be adequate for use as well. 338 Winchester Magnum provides the greatest stopping power and effective range for bear defense. Aug 15, 2018 · It's a good idea to be armed when in bear country. 5 days ago · What is the Best Gun Against a Bear? Choosing the Right Firearm for Bear Defense The best gun against a bear is one that can reliably deliver enough stopping power to neutralize the threat quickly; generally, a powerful large-caliber handgun or shotgun loaded with heavy, hard-cast bullets or slugs is recommended. TOP 10 BEST BEAR DEFENSE GUNS (Shotguns, Handguns & Rifles)Are you looking for the best defense shotgun, pistol and rifle for bear defense of 2021? These are Mar 12, 2025 · There’s also a difference between the rifle a guide might carry, and a firearm carried for last-ditch personal defense against bears. For the latter, many rely on bear spray alone and work at steering clear. Shotguns are readily available in most areas and offer the versatility of using different types of ammo. As you observed, a Winchester Super X hollow point rifled slug is inadequate for bear defense. The key is stopping power — you need a caliber that penetrates thick hide, dense muscle, and bone. 19 hours ago · Glock 20 fomeister/Gunbroker The Glock 20 has become the standard 10mm for bear defense largely because it’s reliable in nearly any condition. FWIW, I also spent some unhappy time as a sergeant in a rifle company in the late 1960’s. One of the best 10mms on the market is the new XD-M Elite 3. However, generally speaking, a powerful, large-caliber revolver firing heavy, hard-cast bullets, such as a . I plan to hunt bear & deer with them also & am going to alternate/mix with SSG's. Share Add a Comment Sort by: Best Open comment sort options Best Top New Controversial Old Q&A Filthedelphia • Jul 10, 2024 · If a bear decides to follow through with a charge, I’ll be able to quickly hit the bear with more rounds and still have great bullet penetration. Choosing the best bear gun caliber involves balancing factors like stopping power, penetration, accuracy, and the specific bear species you might I forget the guy that did this research but heard this on the Hunt Backcountry podcast specifically about bear defense. I agree that 00 buck shot is a great close range defense load against humans. Bear steaks are delicious, bear grease is useful (and delicious), and bear hunting is challenging and rewarding. 10mm and magnums offer more stopping power. Jun 20, 2024 · What are the best handguns for bear defense? Learn about 9 pistols and their calibers that will keep you safe and protected during a bear attack. Recoil Jul 21, 2025 · Everything You Need to Know About Bear Protection with Handguns Tips for carrying a handgun for bear defense while hunting or fishing. Here's a rundown of the best ammo to feed your bear gun. Jun 1, 2025 · Spray is your first line of defense. 5 seconds or less, so you can fire before you get mauled. Can a 9mm stop a bear? Yes — when loaded with hard cast or solid copper rounds. Grizzly bears were on the list, which isn’t surprising considering the uptick in bear encounters in states like Montana and Wyoming. But choosing the right 10mm bear gun involves more than just the cartridge. Oct 23, 2019 · What's better for a bear back up gun: a magnum revolver or a 10mm auto? Two experts square off. LEVER AND PUMP: What is the best shotgun slug for Bear defense? I show and explain Foster style and Brenneke style. Some call them the best bear defense shotgun available, while others counter that they are the worst. Oct 27, 2025 · Best Gun for Bear Hunting is a crucial consideration for any hunter venturing into bear country. When you go to bear country, you want to be armed. I fell in love with bear hunting a very long time ago. When out in the wilderness, bear defense comes into play and the guns and gear you choose could be the difference between life and death. ) Nov 12, 2024 · The best bear defense rounds typically fall within the heavy-for-caliber, controlled-expansion category, delivering maximum stopping power and ensuring humane dispatch. Nov 7, 2024 · Find Top Short-Barreled Shotguns For 2025. 454 Casull, is considered the most effective option for stopping a Dec 11, 2024 · Search online for ‘Alaska bear defense training’ or contact local gun ranges and outdoor retailers for recommendations. I think it beats any and every other shotgun for bear defense. When compared to bear spray, firearms offer more versatility and can be used at a greater distance. Apr 30, 2025 · For bear defense with a rifle, look toward bigger calibers like . Jun 3, 2025 · The best type of 12 gauge ammo for bear defense is the one that can deliver a powerful and effective shot to stop a bear in its tracks. Read our article to learn more about the best shotguns. The last time I went camping I'm almost positive a bear stalked my camp while I was in my tent, so I'm going prepared this time. Above: A semi-auto 10mm is Caleb’s go to bear gun. Nov 27, 2024 · A look at the pros and cons of carrying a wheel gun or an autoloader in the backcountry for bear defense, and what ammo you should use. My wife and I with our six kids live in King Salmon, Alaska. When it comes to stopping power and delivering the energy needed for large predators, the 10mm Auto cartridge has earned its place as a top contender. There seems to be no consensus on the suitability of these two guns for bear defense. Apr 22, 2025 · Handguns April 22, 2025 Best Handguns for Bear Protection When venturing into bear country, having a powerful and reliable handgun can mean the difference between life and death. But the number one Nov 13, 2018 · Gun Tip: The Bottom Line If pinned down to the first gun choice in each category, I have to go with a Remington 870 Tactical model for the shotgun, Ruger Guide Gun for the rifle, and the handgun is the Ruger SuperRedhawk Alaskan. This will also include what accessories you might want on your gun to make it work better for you. Sep 6, 2024 · It wasn’t so long ago that black bears were considered America’s premier wild table fare. 308, . A 12-gauge shotgun is an incredibly powerful weapon, but its effectiveness is greatly limited by the type of bullets it shoots. 45 when you could just carry a $200 pump shotgun loaded with 5+ 12 ga slugs and be far better off. Sep 29, 2023 · A few years ago, I read an article similar to this one that listed the greatest risks to hunters, anglers and hikers in the remote backcountry regions in North America. It’s about having the right tool when things go south. Understanding the Threat: Why Bear Defense Ammo Matters Confrontations with bears are inherently dangerous. The polymer frame helps soak up recoil from full-power loads, and the slide has enough mass to keep the gun running smoothly even with heavy hardcast bullets. Apr 15, 2015 · Guns and cartridges for protection against grizzly bear attacks in Alaska. Feb 4, 2025 · Discover the best handgun for bear defense, focusing on performance, reliability, and practical applications for outdoor enthusiasts. Someone else may have already recommended this, but if you’re using a shotgun for bear defense, use brenneke black magic slugs, those things are absolute monsters and iirc used by police and rangers and such who use shotguns in bear defense roles Reply reply babanoir719 • Reply reply nastygirl11b • Reply reply withclubsauce47 • Reply Nov 9, 2022 · Correct me if I'm wrong but it seems that Dixie slugs is no longer in business, so with the ixl-dgs no longer being an option, what is the best bear defense slug out there these days? Nov 11, 2025 · What is the best type of shotgun ammunition for bear defense? 12 gauge slugs are generally considered the best shotgun ammunition for bear defense, as they offer superior penetration compared to buckshot. 44 Magnum or . Usually bear spray is the gold standard, but some hikers and campers are wondering: Could a Byrna gun be a viable alternative? Nov 15, 2025 · Gun Tests evaluates today’s most talked about handguns, rifles, shotguns and shooting accessories with utter, ruthless impartiality. Best bear defense calibers play a significant Mar 8, 2021 · The best bear defense is the one you use and have with you. Apr 25, 2025 · While handguns and shotguns have their place in bear defense, many experienced outdoorsmen and professionals agree: nothing delivers raw stopping power and immediate threat neutralization like a Oct 9, 2018 · Bear spray is great if you see them coming, but keep in mind, if you are in the middle of a wilderness area, that may not be the best option that could be available. Looking for the best 45 ACP for bear defense? Load your Glock 21 with these 45 ACP rounds to increase your chances of survival during a bear attack Dec 13, 2024 · Shotguns: A 12-gauge shotgun loaded with slugs is a formidable bear defense weapon, offering tremendous stopping power. The weapons can be hard to shoot with heavy loads and are designed for very close quarters. Feb 17, 2024 · 2. Jul 10, 2024 · Hunting bears regardless of the species; black, grizzly or Alaskan brown most always comes down to close shots, as it should. Shotguns are very commonly used for bear defense in Canada, especially by canoe trippers on the shores of Hudson Bay. Jan 6, 2023 · A charging Grizzly Bear travels at 40 feet per second, that's 120 feet, 40 yards, think about that when you talk about using a bolt gun for bear defense. Encounters with these powerful animals can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous, making it essential to have a firearm that provides both stopping power and reliability. Sep 21, 2025 · Find The Best Bear Cartridges For 2025! September Tested. For bear up to 350 pounds a 30-30 worked fine with good bullet placement. A quality shotgun, something like the Remington 1187, is a reliable short to intermediate range protection option. They concluded that a 10mm round from a semi auto pistol is the best round/firearm for bear defense. One thing you need to be aware of is that penetration of any bullet or slug is greatly diminished is the bear's fur is wet. May 20, 2024 · The Best New Bear Defense Guns of 2024 When you're deep in the backcountry with big predators, a reliable firearm is the best way to stop a bear attack. The time now is 08:36 AM. Aug 26, 2025 · Find Your Best Bear Defense Gun Of 2025! September Tested: Stay Safe In The Wild. What is the best firearm for bear protection? A large caliber rifle or a 12 gauge shotgun with slugs is recommended for bear protection. Why? Because no other projectile/firearm combination provides the instant, devastating stopping power—that can save their lives—during an unexpected encounter with an angry bruin Feb 19, 2025 · Bear country isn’t the place to second-guess your gear, especially when it comes to your handgun. In the end the best bear defense firearm is the one that you handle and shoot the most effectively. Nov 19, 2019 · Our man in Alaska picks his 9 top guns for grizzly hunting and defense. If you ask a gun expert (or someone who thinks they’re an expert) what type of gun to use for home defense, chances are they’ll tell you to get a shotgun. For all these reasons, the 10mm stands out as an excellent bear defense caliber. May 28, 2025 · What’s the best bear defense ammo out there? This is a very common question we get after multiple backyard brown bear encounters. Bear mace is number one for bear defense, and the gun is for when that fails. These calibers offer enough stopping power to take down a bear in a self-defense situation. Discover top picks for compact and full-size options, concealed carry considerations, and more. Not so sure I agree with Nov 17, 2025 · What is the effective range of a 12 gauge shotgun for bear defense? The effective range for reliably stopping a charging bear with a 12 gauge slug is generally considered to be within 25 yards. A shotgun is usually less expensive than a rifle, as is the ammunition. Jul 11, 2018 · More than any other firearm, a pump-action shotgun loaded with slugs is what Alaskans carry to hedge their bets with bears. Why? 1) It has a one piece bolt, non-rotating, with dual extractors. 4 days ago · What is the Best Shotgun Against Bears? The best shotgun against bears is generally considered a 12-gauge loaded with high-quality, heavy-hitting slugs specifically designed for large, dangerous game, although specific models and ammunition choices vary based on individual factors. Some swear by big-bore Oct 30, 2004 · Your best defense will be situational awareness before having to use a gun. I have a couple of friends that are head up to Alaska and asked me what is the best 12 gauge round for bear protection. May 15, 2006 · Interesting. Selecting a bear caliber and round, Robert Ruark book, “Use Enough Gun”, comes to mind. Feb 6, 2025 · Find out what gun is most effective against a bear, with detailed comparisons of performance, cost, and ideal applications for shooters. For new and aspiring hunters, however, bears can seem invincible. From powerful performance to compact design, find the best options for self-defense, hunting. Jun 1, 2025 · Looking for the best 9mm bear defense ammo? Discover top-performing +P+ hard cast and solid copper rounds for deep penetration and survival in bear country. Firearm is your last resort. Falls were a significant threat, and so were drowning and hypothermia. Unless they are drugged-up or running on extreme adrenalin, they tend to fall even when lightly hit. Just a regular pump 870 or Mossberg 500 12 ga. Larger bear don't bleed out Nov 5, 2024 · If you ever find yourself in bear country, we share with you the best cartridges and ammo that you can deploy for grizzly bear defense. Mar 18, 2023 · I know my Hubby's Model 700 in . You need deep penetration, large wound channels, and raw stopping power. 8-inch Compact OSP from Springfield. Is a shotgun better than a rifle for bear defense? Both shotguns and rifles can be effective in bear defense, but shotguns are often preferred due to their wider shot spread, allowing for quick reaction shots at close range. Sep 12, 2021 · Short "shotgun" for bear . Here are our picks for the best bear-defense guns currently on the market. Choosing the right firearm for bear defense should involve consideration of factors such as caliber, penetration power, and personal comfort and proficiency. 2 days ago · However, a shotgun with the best 12 gauge slug for bear stopper provides a last line of defense if bear spray fails or is ineffective due to wind or other factors. Sep 15, 2025 · Venturing into bear country demands respect for these powerful creatures and a reliable means of defense should an encounter turn dangerous. You also want to know that the firearm you select will successfully stop the threat of a charging bear.   3 Best Bear Defense Pistols When You Have Seconds to Live Bryan Hill / March 21 2024 Bear defense pistols can be drawn in 1. Also, what kind of slugs/buckshot should I use? Jun 26, 2025 · To find the best shotgun you must first familiarize yourself with available options. There are several reasons for this. Author Tyler Freel, an Alaska resident, offers these three key requirements for a solid bear gun: first, any gun that I'm going out into bear territory quite a bit, and after a close enough encounter with a grizzly, I'm encouraged to get a pump action for bear defense in the worst case scenario (I have a PAL). A bear defense gun isn’t about looking cool or carrying the biggest hand cannon you can find. Thanks in advance. There’s no question that you want the best bear-defense gun out there, whether it’s a pistol, a rifle, or a shotgun. Rifles for Bear Defense: Which is Best? - Firearms News Alaskan hunting and law enforcement expert Rikk Rambo breaks down the best long guns for defense against bears in the tough Alaskan wilderness. Aug 28, 2010 · But yes, a good shotgun slug for defense against bears works well and my Mossberg Marine 12, with ghost ring sights and Brenneke 12 gauge magnum slugs is what I'd use (and a handgun as backup cause I just feel naked without one in the woods. A bell and bear spray are first, but the gun will be a backup. 454 Casull), ensuring you have the best chance of deterring or stopping a charging bear. Key Takeaways: A 12 gauge slug can effectively stop a grizzly bear, but proper shot placement and accuracy are crucial. What is the best shotgun slug for Bear defense? I show and explain Foster style and Brenneke style. It strikes a balance between power and manageability. Even a moderately hardened Brenneke Black Magic rifled slug might glance off the bear's skull, or just flatten out and not penetrate his skull. 45-70, or 12 gauge shotgun with slugs. Sep 22, 2017 · When I asked him for his thoughts on carry guns for bear country, Phil related the following: “Phil, I have always said that carrying any handgun for bear protection is similar to wearing a life jacket in a boat, or parachute in a plane. While no gun is a guarantee, proper selection and proficiency are critical for Dec 1, 2024 · For starters, talking black bear, not brown/grizzly. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game also offers valuable information on bear safety. Sep 19, 2025 · Venturing into bear country demands respect, preparation, and unwavering confidence in your gear. Caution! Always shoot and handle firearms following all safety rules, typically posted at Nov 15, 2025 · The Definitive Guide The best gun for bear defense is a powerful, reliably functioning firearm chambered in a caliber with sufficient stopping power, like a 12-gauge shotgun with slugs or a large-caliber handgun (10mm Auto, . If you’re carrying for defense against a charging grizzly or an aggressive black bear, you need a sidearm that’s powerful, reliable, and something you can actually shoot well under pressure. Ultimately, selecting the right tool depends on proficiency and understanding of the weapon and the situation Mar 17, 2025 · If you spend enough time in bear country, you start to realize one thing real quick—luck favors the prepared. Here is a guide to the right rifles and calibers. Rifles: A high-powered rifle in a caliber such as . While long guns are often preferred for bear defense, there are situations — like hiking, fishing, or backpacking — where a handgun is more practical. And no, I wouldn’t recommend a shotgun when hunting black bears out West, where the distances can be farther than a slug can be shot accurately. A shot to the neck or shoulder may not kill a big bear. What shotgun gauge is best for bear defense? 12-gauge shotguns loaded with slugs or solid projectiles are commonly recommended for bear defense due to their stopping Brenneke slugs in a fast-handling shotgun are the choice for personal protection of many of Alaska’s professional wildlife and law enforcement officers who often find themselves on patrol in bear country. . Jun 25, 2019 · There are no certainties when dealing with grizzly bears and black bears, but if you look to the folks who are around them the most, you can learn the best ways to survive a bear encounter. Jun 20, 2011 · What to look for in a bear defense shotgun? The Dave McCracken Memorial Shotgun Forum Feb 17, 2024 · What Caliber Stops a Bear? The most recommended calibers for stopping a bear are . Some of those who opt for shotguns use buckshot, but most prefer the solidity of slugs. Caution! Always shoot and handle firearms following all Both brown bears and grizzlies are thick-hided, heavily muscled, and prodigiously strong. In fact I can say that every single paddler I've ever encountered in the Arctic Watershed who was carrying a firearm for bear defense was carrying a shotgun. When that happens I don't think you'd want to be armed with a single shot . When the bear weighed 500-700+ pounds a 30-30 didn't always kill well. Humans are thin-skinned, lightly boned critters. However, the purpose of Apr 15, 2015 · Guns and cartridges for protection against grizzly bear attacks in Alaska. Read Our Reviews & Discover The Best Models In September! Firearms for Defense against Bears By Chuck Hawks Model 1895GS Guide Gun. Mar 7, 2024 · What is the Best Handgun for Bear Protection? The ‘best’ handgun for bear protection is highly subjective and depends on individual capabilities, environment, and the specific bear species encountered. Would be primarily for Grizzly defence. With that thought in our heads, let's look at some options for some backcountry sidearms that will get the job done. ? The Dave McCracken Memorial Shotgun Forum Aug 7, 2022 · IMO, the very best shotgun available for bear defense is going to be a Mossberg 500 or 590 with an extended magazine and bead front sight. Even though they’re generally Jul 9, 2024 · Exploring the best handguns for bear defense, effectiveness of warning shots, performance of various calibers, and other real-world stats Jul 3, 2024 · Discover the most effective bear defense weapons and learn what gun to use for bears to ensure your safety. 3. 22 rimfire pocket pistols; not very often, but it has been done by an Eskimo woman I happen to know about. Being wild animals, these bears will take the easy way out to find food if there is a chance. Find high-performance slugs for accuracy, power, and reliability in every shot I'm looking at the Remington 870/Mossberg 590, but leaning towards 590 as I've heard bad things about the new 870. 45-70 Government or even . Others carry large handguns or short slug-loaded shotguns. Selecting the best gun for bear hunting is paramount, as it serves as your ultimate line of defense in a close encounter. Honestly I still do not know where I stand on the matter. Jun 11, 2022 · I haven't had a need for this information for way too many years. However, having proper shot placement and understanding bear behavior are equally important factors to consider for one’s safety. This article explores the Oct 31, 2025 · Venturing into bear country requires preparedness and a deep respect for these powerful creatures. Learn what to look for, why shotguns excel, and explore the top 7 options for protecting your home. Jun 11, 2025 · Explore top bear defense shotguns and bullets with essential features like pump actions, semi-automatics, and jacketed hollow points. Chambering saboted slugs will provide a little Nov 9, 2025 · Gun Bed We will learn how to choose the best home defense tactical shotgun for any situation. Different types of slugs are available, and their performance can vary significantly. Feb 17, 2024 · Are shotguns good against black bears? Shotguns can be effective against black bears at close range, especially when using slugs or bear-specific loads. Feb 17, 2015 · Hello all! I have done a ridiculous amount of research on what a 12 gauge shotgun can and can not do in regards to hunting/defense from a large animal. Some popular options include slugs and buckshot. Stop Charging Bears Now. Ever wonder how effective Bear Spray, Bear Bangers and a 12 gauge shotgun are at any meaningful distance? In this video I attempt to inform as well as demonstrate the various lethal and non-lethal Jan 22, 2017 · What Shotgun for Bears? The HuntAll times are GMT -4. Jun 1, 2025 · Explore the effectiveness of various calibers for bear defense, including real-life cases of 9mm use. There Brenneke makes the best traditional slugs for bear. Going camping this weekend for a few days. Apr 3, 2025 · In a look at the top bear defense handguns on the market, Outdoor Life emphasizes that while no handgun can guarantee stopping a bear attack, certain models definitely offer better protection when carried and used proficiently. Aug 18, 2021 · It's usually a good idea to be armed when in bear country. 12-Gauge Slugs A 12-gauge shotgun is one of the most common selections among those who hunt, fish or otherwise spend time in grizzly bear country. 30-06 Springfield with heavy bullets. Here are our picks for the best bear defense guns that are available on the market today. Jan 6, 2014 · The best shot to stop a charging bear is in his skull. Let me start by saying that, for defense against bears, practically any firearm is better than none at all. That means you need a rifle cartridge with bite and power behind it. but picking the right one for will give you the best chance. Your best bet for bear defends is a weapon you’re comfortable and familiar with. The purpose of these recommendations is to emphasise the necessity of all polar guides to prepare thoroughly for trips into polar bear territories, including recognition of polar bear behaviours, using and carrying appropriate firearms, deterrents and ammunition, appropriate conduct while camping and on the move, and adequate briefing of participants. Ammo Mar 25, 2022 · The 10mm has become the bear defense cartridge of choice for many backwoods hunters, offering plenty of stopping power with hot loads and a higher capacity than revolvers. 1. I've been out of shotguns for a while so I'll Mar 31, 2017 · Brenneke slugs are the standard in Alaska for the majority of bear guards (yes, it's a profession), and field people carrying shotguns. 30-06, . Jul 6, 2024 · Shop the best 12 gauge slugs for defense & hunting at USA Gun Shop. I was thinking a combination of 00 Buck and slugs, but which Nov 1, 2024 · Learn how to choose the best handgun for bear defense, including effective calibers, stopping power, and features to consider. I’ve utilized these shotties (stoked with various iterations of Brenneke slugs) in multiple geographic and climatic environments for over two decades without a single failure to feed/function. Marauding bears have been killed by . 44 Magnum, . Nov 13, 2025 · When you’re deep in bear country, carrying the right sidearm caliber can mean the difference between getting home safe and not getting home at all. What barrel length is the best? What model shotgun is the most reliable? Bear in mind, Itll have to reliably work in freezing cold temps (> -25C), and in the rain/snow. Choosing the right gun can be a complex decision, influenced by factors such as the type of bear being hunted, the hunting Mar 23, 2022 · If a firearm is effectively used during an encounter, it can be lethal for the bear, while bear spray allows the bear to likely remain in the population. Feb 8, 2025 · Even the best bear defense handguns are a last resort to stop an attack, . Here are six great new bear-stopping firearms available this year. 2) It's action is sloppy enough to feed anything, even when dirty. 30-06 has the best ballistics for bears, but it's a cumbersome bolt-action rifle with a scope attached and I do notice the recoil quite a bit more than my auto-loading shotgun. Some say that for most black bear you'd basically load the same as for humans, but some black bears can get quite big. Looking for some specific information here. Jun 18, 2025 · Discover the 8 best short barrel shotguns for 2025. Which gun will save your life if you ever get attacked by a bear while in the woods? That's what we're testing today and we found some pretty shocking result Aug 11, 2025 · Safety in bear country is paramount, and selecting appropriate firearms is crucial for effective protection. Big bears are tough and tenacious. Nov 15, 2025 · Gun Tests evaluates today’s most talked about handguns, rifles, shotguns and shooting accessories with utter, ruthless impartiality. We have one of the highest densities of brown bears in the world here in Western Alaska. Aug 26, 2024 · The Best 10mm Ammo of 2025, Tested and Reviewed We pick the best 10mm ammo for hunting, bear defense, self defense, and target practice in this buyer’s guide. But it’s not ideal. While preventative measures like carrying bear spray are crucial, a reliable handgun can be the ultimate line of defense in a close-quarters confrontation. There’s a lot of debate about what makes the best bear defense handgun. The reason being I hear two different sides to it; the 12 gauge slug will only tickle Sep 4, 2008 · I know Hornady makes some ''SST style/Red tip'' 12g high velocity slug shots but they are for rifled only shot gun barrels. Feb 3, 2025 · Discover the best shotgun for home defense with this guide. While handguns offer a necessary backup in bear country, any guide or experienced hunter will tell you that your first and best option is a centerfire rifle or 12-gauge shotgun with a slug. 30-06 Springfield, . While doing the research for this quick list of popular guns, I decided to take myself and my opinins out of it Jul 6, 2020 · To learn more about stopping bears, a group of gun writers recently attended a predator defense class at Gunsite Academy, arguably the best – certainly the oldest privately owned – gunfighting school in the world. Popular today are the big, . 308 Winchester, or . Learn more now! Feb 3, 2024 · Shotguns Vs. This along with bear spray covers a wide range of situations and deployment scenarios. Jun 9, 2022 · If you're planning on going backcountry hiking or camping, having a great revolver trail gun is a great way to be prepared for unknown threats. You want stopping power, reliability, and something you can get into action fast if a bear decides you’re worth charging. In conclusion, selecting the ‘best’ handgun for Alaskan carry is a personal decision based on a variety of factors. In this guide, I’ll breakdown our choices for the best home defense shotgun and explain what makes a tactical shotgun perfect for protecting… Mar 1, 2022 · I grew up in bear country where black bears out numbered people by 40 to 1 and everybody had a bear gun handy. Choosing the right firearm, however, is critical, and selecting <a title="Best Calibers for May 28, 2024 · While many Alaskan guides and residents do carry short-barreled shotguns afield for bear defense, a good gun for hunting brown and grizzly bears typically leans toward magnum-caliber rifles. We’ve done the research […] Jun 3, 2019 · Over the decades, several cartridges have proved themselves as worthy against charging bears in North America. 45-70 lever-actions we call “guide guns,” featuring rust-proofed metal with fast ghost-ring 4 days ago · High-quality slugs are generally considered the best choice for bear defense with a 12 gauge. Locals opted for a pump 12 gauge with slugs or a 300 Savage up to a 3006 or larger bore rifle (45-70 class). Illustration courtesy of Marlin Firearms Co. Jun 23, 2022 · Best Rifles and Calibers for Big Bears Hunting big bears takes the right equipment. att gsncjil otpik oke egxhn sbdma qivi irqzsj xsq ipq nzjnui dtjug fakwbs izcxrwq ryupam