Buffalo Bore or Corbon Hardcast .357 Mag For Bear

Data does not lie.

2 pounds are heavier than 1.

750fpe is more than 550fpe.

Buffalo Bore 180gr 357 pushes 758fpe.

750fpe is 44mag @ factory pressure for 240gr.

Were I him, id use a 41 mag... he doesn't have a 41 mag.

I've been shooting since I was fifteen and I'm now sixty two. I know my skills and I know my limitations and I'm not Rambo or Grizzly Adams, but I am a pretty fair shooter. I've lived in the mountains whenever it was possible, mostly the Sierra Nevada's. There were black bears there, but they stayed pretty much out of sight except for a few that developed a taste for garbage. Those would show up on occasion and snack on people's trash. I've never lived where I might just bump into one walking a trail. So, I'm actually pretty ignorant about bears and cougars in general and that's why I started this thread. I asked for people's opinions and I thank you all for the input.

At this point, having just moved I'm very restricted financially. I'd love to have a 4" Model 629 or 29. But I can't afford it. A Blackhawk is in my price range, but I'm not a fan of single action revolvers. I've had a few OM Blackhawks and OM Vaqueros and I liked them fine, but in a panic situation, I'd rather have a double action. I'm beginning to think that I should pass on the Security Six and just wait longer, save up some more and buy a .44 magnum.

Right now as far as long guns, my woods gun is a Mossberg 9200 loaded with 1.5oz. slugs. I'd really like a .45-70 lever gun and maybe that will be possible come Spring. For the time being, I'll see what I can do about going to the .44.

CA357 sounds like you are making some good choices. I live with the Black and the Brown Bears. My first gun is always the Mdl. 97 12 Ga. Winchester with a 20 " barrel. I cast my slugs with the LEE Slug Mold 1 1/4 Oz. from 50/50 WW to Linotype. This slug uses the standard plastic shotcup wad used for shot loads. There is no need for expensive Sabots. These slugs loaded with a charge of HS-6 are very accurate. This allows you to practise all you want with your slugs the price is very low per shot. I also use the Lee Buck shot mold with the same alloy. These shells are loaded Buck Shot and Slug every other one.
The problem is you just don't have the shotgun in hand 24-7. The handgun in Bear Country should be a constant companion. I carry the LAR Grizzly .45 Winchester Magnum in the LAR cross chest holster rig. A friend was taken out by a big sow grizz a few years back. He survived because his pard put a handful of .270s in the old girl. He never goes out now without 2 handguns. One on his chest and one on the pack frame.
Good Luck