Grizzly Protection/Hunting in Alaska

[Cosmoline]

Mantis--that's an old myth. It's based on experiences where the hunter shoots the top of the bear's head, where the big lump is. It doesn't kill the animal so they assume the bullet was deflected. In reality that's not brain or skull, but a huge mass of jaw muscles. A .30-06 will NOT deflect off a bear's skull. But you do need to aim lower than you may think to hit paydirt.

 

[Gunz]

I am also quite fascinated with this thread, since I plan on going to ALaska in the spring of 2007.
Per the comments made so far, it seems I would be checking in my 45-70 stainless Guide Gun, Mossberg 590 12 gauge, and a 3-in 629 (for packability).
THe ammo selection is what I am also glad to hear discussed.
Hardcast seems to be the requirement. I can get the 300 Federal Cast Core for the 44 (I think the Garrett would be harder on me than I can handle), and the same for the 12 gauge. What grain weight in the 45-70 would be appropriate? Do they make the 405gr in hardcast for the 45-70?
I like the Ruger 454 Alaskan, too. Any real Alaskans have any testimony to share of that little gun in a defensive role?
I think the 2.5inch S&W 500 or 460 survival kits are plain goofy looking.

 

[DavidAk311]

No bears are as tough, mean, and bullet proof as internet bears....use whatever weapon you are comfortable with and can shoot with some skill...

They aren't lurking behind every tree, waiting to ambush a guy....bullets don't bounce off their heads...they don't come running at the sound of a gun shot...and one needn't let fear of them spoil his fun in the woods.....

 

[crunker]

An axe, a mace, or similar bladed weapon. Bearspray may work, but I don't want to trust my life with something that's little more than a chili powder solution.

For firearms, 10mm loaded with the most powerful cartridge available, or .44 revolver.

 

[[email protected]]

What about hunting grizzlies?

1. Do you need a scoped rifle?
2. Would a Short M-1A work (.308 Winchester)
3. Scope Power?
Thanks

 

[BIGR]

Cosmoline, I guess you stay in pretty good shape, running away from those moose. I bet that gets your heart pumping.
Now back on the subject, this is some good info on this. In the future I want to go to Alaska and visit some of the areas like Denali. If I had the choice to just go on one more big trip before I die, it would be to travel to Alaska. I've been out west in bear country and took the .44 mag super redhawk loaded with the Federal 300 GR. cast bullets. I had the Glock along in the truck mainly for the two legged critters, but never had to display either one.