BigGameHunt.net Hunting Forums

[silent_scope]

Headed up to Brooks Range, and King Salmon, AK to do some bear hunting. Wondering what you all thought about the lever action .348 Winchester? Any input would be helpful.

[Critter]

If you are planning on using the 348 on bear it will get the job done as long as you keep your range close. You are going to have to have a guide so what I would do is ask him on his opinion on you using it. My first bear hunt 30 years ago the guide told me to bring my 30-06 with 220 grain slugs and not worry about buying a new magnum rifle. He wanted me to pack a rifle that I was familiar with and could hit what I was aiming at. He said that a lot of hunters came with too much gun for themselfs and couldn't shoot it that accuratly due to the recoil. The 348 has killed a lot of bears in its time but there are a lot of other capable and better rounds.

[alcan7]

Barnes makes a 250 grain slug for the 348 and I don't see any reason why it can't take down the biggest bear as the Barnes will hold together and hit with about a ton & 1/2 of energy given a good load. Of course shot placement is paramount.

[Critter]

alcan7 wrote: Barnes makes a 250 grain slug for the 348 and I don't see any reason why it can't take down the biggest bear as the Barnes will hold together and hit with about a ton & 1/2 of energy given a good load. Of course shot placement is paramount. That is if he reloads, if not he is stuck with the Hornady 200 gr

I spoke too soon I looked up some 348 rounds on line and see that you can buy the Barnes 250's, a little spendy but you can get them.

[alcan7]

True they are expensive but who is going to quibble over a few bucks when going on a hunting trip involving big bears? Your life is on the line so you are going to spend the bucks for the best ammo you can get.

[Jim Z.]

I'll stake my life on my .348 anytime. Buffalo Bore and Grizzly both produce a hi powered 250 grain loading if you don't reload.

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