Is 10mm Good Enough for Bear Encounters?

Gun & Shooting
1

Considering 10mm for Bear Defense

I’ve been doing a lot of research on the best calibers for bear encounters while hiking in bear country. One caliber that keeps coming up is the 10mm, but I’m not entirely sure if it’s a good choice. I’d love to get some insights from those who have experience with it in the field.

What I Know So Far

  • Power: The 10mm is a powerful round, but how does it stack up against bigger calibers like the .44 Magnum or even the .357? I’ve read conflicting opinions about it being a viable option for defense against bears.
  • Recoil: I’m also concerned about the recoil, especially in a high-stress situation. Is it manageable for quick follow-up shots?
  • Ammunition Availability: I’ve noticed 10mm ammo can be harder to find compared to other options. Is that something others have experienced?

Personal Experiences

I’d really appreciate hearing from anyone who has used a 10mm for bear defense.

  • What specific brands or loads do you recommend?
  • Have you had any close calls that required you to use your gun?
  • How does the performance in real-life situations compare to what you’ve heard?

I’m looking forward to your thoughts and any advice you have on staying safe in bear territory. Thanks in advance for your help!

2

I’ve used 10mm on several backpacking trips, and I feel confident in its stopping power against bears. The key is shot placement, but it definitely packs a punch compared to 9mm.

3

That’s true, but I’ve heard mixed reviews. How does it stack up against something like .44 Magnum?

7 Likes
4

In my experience, 10mm can hold its own, especially with the right ammo. It won’t compare to the sheer power of .44 Magnum, but it’s more manageable for most shooters.

5

I agree with Kimberly. I’ve fired both calibers and find 10mm more comfortable to shoot accurately under stress, which is vital during encounters!

6

Have you tried any specific loads that you think work best for bear defense?

7

I’m a fan of the 200 gr. hard cast. It penetrates well and expands beautifully, making it great for stopping a bear.

8

Interesting choice! Have you had to use it in a defensive situation?

9

Not in a bear encounter, thankfully! But I practice with it often, and it’s given me peace of mind when I’m in bear country.

10

I’m curious about how it performs against smaller bears. Would you feel just as confident with a black bear compared to a grizzly?

11

Definitely! A well-placed shot from a 10mm should suffice for black bears. Grizzlies are another story; practice is vital for those situations.

12

Exactly! But doesn’t using 10mm come with a risk during a surprise encounter?

13

I think any caliber can fail if you’re not prepared. It’s more about mindset and training than just the gun.

14

Good point! Still, I can’t help but feel a bit uneasy relying solely on 10mm in bear territory.

15

You should check out some videos. A well-trained person with 10mm can be very effective; I’ve seen proof on the range!

16

Thanks for sharing! I think I’d rather stick with a shotgun for ultimate security.

4 Likes
17

Shotguns are great too! But remember, whatever you choose, make sure it’s comfortable for you. That’s the key to effective defense!

18

In my experience, 10mm can be effective for bear encounters, especially with the right ammunition. Look for heavier loads (200 grains or more) for better penetration.

19

I agree! I’ve had good luck with Underwood’s 200 grain hard cast. The velocity is fantastic and it really delivers when it counts.

20

I’ve heard mixed reviews about 10mm for bear defense. It might work, but the key is the ammo type. What’s the bullet weight you guys recommend?