Can hunting bears with .45-70 be considered sustainable?

Choosing the Right Ammunition

When hunting bears with a .45-70, it’s essential to select the correct ammunition to ensure a quick and humane kill. A good option is to use a 300- to 350-grain bullet, such as the Hornady 300-grain FTX or the Remington 300-grain Core-Lokt. These bullets provide enough mass and velocity to penetrate deep into the animal’s body, reducing the risk of over-penetration and poor bullet expansion.

Understanding Bear Anatomy and Shot Placement

To increase the chances of a successful harvest, it’s crucial to understand the anatomy of a bear and the importance of proper shot placement. A well-placed shot to the heart or lungs will provide the quickest and most humane kill. Aim for the area just behind the front leg, about 12-18 inches below the ribcage, to ensure a clean and efficient shot. It’s also essential to consider the bear’s size and strength, as a larger animal may require a more powerful shot.

Additional Considerations

When hunting bears with a .45-70, it’s also important to consider the animal’s size and strength. A larger bear may require a more powerful shot, which could put the hunter at risk of over-penetration and poor bullet expansion. In addition, the .45-70 may not be effective against grizzly bears, which tend to have thicker hide and stronger bones. In such cases, a more powerful rifle, such as a .338 or .375, may be a better option.