Guns and Gear for an Idaho Bear Hunt

by
posted on September 30, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
gg-idahobearhunt_lead.jpg

Editor's Note: Field Editor Brian McCombie put the following gear to use on a recent Idaho black bear hunt. You can catch up on that story here.

Savage Model 116 Bear Hunter
For this hunt, I used a Savage Model 116 Bear Hunter chambered in .300 Win. Mag. and featuring a 23-inch, stainless barrel with an adjustable muzzle brake and a Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity camo synthetic stock. MSRP: $899; savagearms.com.

Federal Premium Edge TLR
My ammunition was the new Federal Premium Edge TLR topped with a tough, 200-grain polymer-tipped bullet. MSRP: $59.95 per 20-rnd. box; federalpremium.com.

Bushnell Optics
I topped the rifle with a Bushnell 4500 Elite 2.5X-10X-40mm scope. My Bushnell Engage 10x42mm binocular provided crisp, clear images even in low light. MSRP: $399.99 4500 Elite 2.5X-10X-40mm, $485.95 Engage binocular; bushnell.com.

Jagdhund USA Koppl Boots
My leg muscles didn’t always want to cooperate, but my Jagdhund USA Koppl boots were a pleasure to wear. They weigh just 1.5 pounds, sport a Vibram sole, and provide first-rate ankle and lateral support. MSRP: $338; jadghund-usa.com.

Latest

001 MWIBHRB W Cover 01
001 MWIBHRB W Cover 01

Range Review: Midwest Industries Bounty Hunter Revolver Brace

Thanks to Midwest Industries new Revolver Brace, you can easily mount a stabilizing brace to your favorite hunting revolvers. Check out B. Gil Horman's review of this game-changing product.

First Look: Marlin Mad Pig Customs Model 1894

Marlin has introduced its Mad Pig Customs Model 1894, a rifle developed—as its name implies—in collaboration with Mad Pig Customs. Built on Marlin's iconic lever‑action rifle platform, this model delivers modern, factory‑installed features previously found only on custom builds.

Funding Authorized to Conserve Critical Wetland Habitat

The Department of the Interior has announced that $44.79 million in North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) funds have been approved by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission. They will provide the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service—and its partners—the ability to conserve, restore or enhance 185,203 acres of critical wetland and associated upland habitat for migratory birds across the United States.

Behind the Bullet: The .30-378 Weatherby Magnum

Curious about one of the original wonder cartridges? A cartridge that literally broke the 6000 fps mark with specialized, lightweight options? Follow along with Phil Massaro as he dives into the .30-378 Weatherby Magnum.

New for 2026: Muddy Cloak OZ3 and OZ5 Ozone Generators

Muddy Outdoors has launched the Cloak OZ3 and OZ5 Ozone Generators—two high-output scent control solutions designed to give hunters a true edge in the field.

Varmint Hunting 101: Tips and Overview

Looking for a way to spend your offseason that scratches your hunting itch? Try varmint hunting. Follow along with Tim Hovey as he discusses how to get into the pursuit, and some basic tips to get you rolling.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.