The Differences In Bear Hunting Rifles

Not all bear hunting rifles are created the same, which is why some people have their favorites. This can vary by brand, size and power. But the one thing they all have in common is that they’re different, leading to a lot of choices for all levels of hunters. These key differences have shook the market over the years, splitting up buyers by offering a lot of new and improved old features. Here is a sampling of some of the best, in no particular order.

The Ruger Hawkeye Alaskan is a .375 that strives on being dependable, so the mechanics are rock solid. Yet all of that goes out the window for something so simple that it should be criminal: the placement of the iron express sights. Bear hunting rifles once came standard with iron sights, but now it seems to be an optional (and sometimes hard to find) feature. Or at the very least, it is glossed over so much that it is poorly implemented. The iron express sights on the Ruger Hawkeye Alaskan is a reminder that the scope isn’t the end all be all when it comes to a quality hunting rifle. Tradition still lives on strong!

Remington Model 700 is another .375, and comes from a long line of proven M700’s over the years. Widely regarded as one of the best bear hunting rifles ever made, lack of controlled feed action has made it a must have model for some hunters. The feature is either loved or hated depending on who you ask, but for the best bear hunting rifle there will always be reason to look into Remington’s models.

A bear hunting rifle list wouldn’t be complete without the Marlin 1895, the .450 that is devastating when used properly. Speed is the feature of this gun that has made it a favorite, proving that it isn’t always about pure power and confusing mechanics. The Marlin 1895 is lightening quick and works, and for many hunters that is exactly what they want.

Depending on the hunter, there are certain rifle features that they just can’t live without. Having an understanding of what features mean the most to you can help with picking out a dream weapon. And if there is a brand that really resonates with you, stick to it and find a favorite model. Because when you hunt, having a reliable weapon is something you can’t live without!

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