Shoot Bear Where?

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posted on March 14, 2014
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Q: If charged by a bear and forced to shoot, where should I aim my rifle?

A: When a bear decides to strike, time is of the essence as the animal will be moving fast. It is wise to try and hit the middle of the bear coming toward you. The bear (charging on all fours) will have its head roughly close to the middle of what you see coming toward you. If you miss the head (a near miss), the spine or chest will be hit. A center-of-mass hit is your aim, and fast bolt, lever or pump-action work is necessary, assuming you have time for multiple shots.

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