.357 mag hunting load

[dogslayer1313]

I am looking for a .357 mag hunting load. I will be shooting a Ruger GP100 with 6" barrel. Bear hunting, close range 20-30 yards max. Only loading I have done for the pistol are some light loaded 158gr practice rounds with W231 powder. Any suggestions on best projectile and powder combos would be much appreciated.

[emtmark]

Whatever buffalo bore does lol, those pills are MOVIN!

[rm1911]

I'm not a bear hunting expert but I would feel much more confident hunting bear with a minimum of .44 mag. 357 perhaps if it was out of a lever carbine because you can load 180's, or at the least the extra barrel length will give you another 200+ fps with a 158.

[kielbasavw]

You can get some good velocities with 125gr and 2400. Not sure if the bullet weight would be a big factor, id say what ever penetrates the most

[Divernhunter]

"I" would not hunt with a 357mag.
If you must a mag primer and max dose of H-110(or Win 296---same powder) and Hornady 140-158gr XTP bullet.
Or use a 125grBarnes XPB bullet.

[Cowboy T]

For deer, I wouldn't mind one bit using a .357M rifle. But for bears, I'd want something a bit bigger, just in case. With a .357M intended for bear use, H110/W296 and whatever pill gets to the vitals, and I'd suggest the heavier, the better.

Just remember, you might end up stumbling upon a mother with cubs who decides to charge at you to protect her babies.

[357magnum]

I would go with Buffalo Bore, very stout stuff.
Your Ruger GP100 is built like a tank, should be no problem.
Also, Buffalo Bore is not cheap.

[rhbanjo]

The only thing worse than a mad bear is a pissed off bear that's just been shot in the *** with an inadequate load..... Good luck with that.

[dogslayer1313]

Thanks for the info and all of your concerns. It looks like I may just go with the buffalo bore. I usually take my bear from the ground with a recurve bow at 20-30 yards. So yes I have been up close and personal with all size of bears including sows with cubs. Some luck and a lot of sent control has kept me out of trouble so far. I believe a perfect broadside shot at that range on a smaller bear would be fine. I'm an ethical hunter and if the opportunity isn't just right you let it pass, and I will also be carrying my 30-06.

[thenodnarb]

Thanks for the info and all of your concerns. It looks like I may just go with the buffalo bore. I usually take my bear from the ground with a recurve bow at 20-30 yards. So yes I have been up close and personal with all size of bears including sows with cubs. Some luck and a lot of sent control has kept me out of trouble so far. I believe a perfect broadside shot at that range on a smaller bear would be fine. I'm an ethical hunter and if the opportunity isn't just right you let it pass, and I will also be carrying my 30-06.

I'm a bowhunter too. But I bought a .44 mag for bear defense/hunting. My gut says,"use the 30-06" but I understand the appeal of using a pistol. I think the others are urging caution for good reason. .357 is on the low end of effectiveness for bear. If you MUST, then a hard cast lead bullet is the best option IMO. The whole bullet is harder, vs a soft lead bullet bonded to a copper jacket.You will get better penetration. Buffalo Bore makes some.

https://www.buffalobore.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=100

[toby]

If your hunting California Bears average weight 200-300lbs, male and 175-225lbs, female.(approx.) in perspective that's the same size as a large wild pig. The 357 is a fine choice use the heaviest bullet you have or can buy. Buffalo bore and Cor-bon make great stuff I load my 45 Colt to their specs.

[ireload]

Hard cast LFN with GC 180 grain that Buffalo Bore sells would be a good choice for deep penetration.

[nachoyumm]

I've just started messing with some of the Missouri bullet company 180 gr hard cast lead bullets. They are pretty hard hitters with easily manageable recoil with 2400. Haven't messed with any other powders yet, wish I had some h110 to try that out.

[dogslayer1313]

Thanks again for the replies. I was able to get some H110 and w296 now I'm looking for some 2400. Then the fun begins.

[bigdawg86]

AA#9 is a good magnum powder!