120 grn Partitions in .257 for black bear?

Doc · May 1, 2005

It's spring black bear season here in Alaska right now, and instead of my 30-06 I'm thinking of taking my .257 Roberts with 120 grain partitions. Has anyone taken black bear with the 120's in a quarter bore? I'd like to hear from you if you have. I've worked up some fine shooting loads for the 120's (@ 2800 fps), and my Roberts is a custom rifle that I put together with the help of others...so I really enjoy shooting it. This is spot and stalk hunting, and the bears I have previously taken with the 06 have been effectively taken with shoulder shots at 100-200 yards. Good judgement seems to dictate that I stick with the tried and true 06. However, I'd like to get the Roberts in the field this spring, but I don't want to push the limits and lose a bear that I have wounded. Thoughts or experiences?

remingtonman_25_06 · Nov 20, 2005

I have taken 3 bears with my 25-06 and the 115g BT at 3200fps. The ranges were 375, 440, and 600. Each bear was hit in the shoulders on the 1st shot, and needed a 2nd follow up. However, that was all that was needed in each case. I am hunting eastern oregon black bears. I would say the 120g Partition would work out to 300 yards or so. You might need a quick follow up shot, so be prepared.

Alaska · Apr 28, 2008

The 30-06 are 308 win are smallest I would use on black bear.......in case a blood trail is needed smaller holes clog up easier.

Better yet......338/358/458 cal