Quick Answer
While a revolver can be a reliable choice for bear hunting, it's essential to have extensive shooting experience and be proficient with a handgun to effectively take down a bear, even with powerful calibers like the 454 Casull and 460 S&W.
Choosing the Right Revolver
When it comes to bear hunting with a revolver, you’ll want to select a model that’s heavy enough to handle the recoil of a powerful cartridge. A minimum weight of 38 ounces is recommended, with some models like the Smith & Wesson 460XVR or the Desert Eagle 429 DE weighing in at over 50 ounces. These heavy revolvers will help to mitigate the recoil of a powerful cartridge like the 460 S&W Magnum or the 454 Casull.
Ammunition Selection
Ammunition selection is critical when bear hunting with a revolver. You’ll want to select a cartridge with a heavy bullet (at least 300 grains) and a muzzle velocity of at least 1,500 feet per second. The 460 S&W Magnum and the 454 Casull are both excellent choices for bear hunting, with the 460 S&W Magnum delivering a muzzle energy of up to 2,100 foot-pounds and the 454 Casull delivering up to 1,800 foot-pounds. It’s also essential to choose ammunition with a reliable expansion profile to ensure that the bullet expands properly upon impact.
Backup Sidearm Considerations
While your primary handgun should be a heavy revolver, it’s also essential to consider a backup sidearm in case your primary handgun fails or is damaged during the hunt. A small, lightweight pistol like the Glock 19 or the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield can be an excellent backup choice, providing a reliable and compact option for close-quarters defense. When choosing a backup sidearm, be sure to select a model with a reliable trigger and a magazine capacity of at least 7 rounds.
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