Shoot Bear Where?

by
posted on March 14, 2014
** 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. **
qa_ah2015_fs.jpg (9)

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.

Latest

Decoys 2
Decoys 2

Snow Goose Science: Hunting Tips from the Pros

Want to drop more snow geese during conservation season? Check out these tips, straight from the pro guides at Central Missouri Wildlife.

New for 2026: Apex Ammunition 28-Gauge SmallTown Hunting TSS Turkey Blend

Apex Ammunition is now offering a 28-gauge load in its SmallTown Hunting Blend line of turkey ammunition.

Arizona’s Free Annual Outdoor Expo returns March 28-29

Sportsmen ready to explore wildlife and wild places in the Arizona should mark their calendars for March 28 and 29, when the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) Outdoor Expo returns to the Ben Avery Shooting Facility in north Phoenix, Ariz.

Scotland Stag Hunt: A Proper Stalk

“That it [deer-stalking] is a chase which throws all our other field-sports far in the back-ground, and, indeed, makes them appear wholly insignificant, no one, who has been initiated in it, will attempt to deny.” – William Scrope, The Art Of Deer-Stalking

New for 2026: Browning Trail Cameras Defender Pro Scout Max HD Solar

Built for long-term performance, Browning Trail Cameras has added the Defender Pro Scout Max HD Solar to its 2026 lineup.

#SundayGunday: Burris Fullfield 3-12x42

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re checking out the Burris Fullfield 3-12x42mm. While the Fullfield line encompasses a whole range of magnifications and objective lens sizes, this one appeals as an excellent balance of features for hunters facing almost any scenario in the field. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.