[TEC]

I'm thinking about getting a 338 WM for next bear season. Leaning towards a Savage 116. Any input from fellow 338 owners if that's a good choice or not. Thanks

 

[TrashPanda]

I have one and have shot several bruins with mine. Every single one of them has dropped straight down, DRT, including the grizzly that I got in AK. Honestly, it's probably overkill for PA bear season and you can probably find a more portable rifle for the brush if you are doing drives. But it works well when you get that shot, provided you can handle it. I shoot 200 grain Hornady Interlocks downloaded to 2800 fps for PA bear season. Full factory loads just aren't necessary.

 

[6-DASHER]

I've owned one for thirty years and have never fired it at any bear, you'd be better served with a 7mm mag or 300 win mag, unless your planning on making a trip someday to Alaska, are you left handed, I'll make you a great deal...

 

[Laylow]

While a nice cartridge, unless you're going for griz and above, I'd stay with a 300 Win Mag. Big difference in the cost of ammo.

 

[Backwoods Z]

Its probably more than you need most of the the time, but yesterday I spotted a bedded bear about 100 yards away, and went to get my buddy who was carrying a .308 150gr. After waiting about a 1/2 hr the bear stood up and gave him a shot. There were a couple small twigs that we could see, but possibly more that we couldn't. He had a steady rest at a sanding bear and never touched him. Could have been bear fever, as it was only his second time bear hunting, and the first bear he's ever seen in the woods, but I was thinking if I was shooting my .338 250gr the twigs wouldn't have been a concern. 250gr is even more overkill, but my cousin took his .338 w/250gr on a Alaskan moose hunt, so we figured we use the same ammo. Also, if you ever plan to go for larger game/ out west, the .338 shoots just as flat as a .300, but with more energy.

 

[Davy Crockett]

I'm in favor of 30 cal and above for any bear, just my preference. Doesn't have to be a cannon, a 35 Rem would be good. So I think the 338 is a good pick if you want more gun. I took one to Maine this year but didn't take a shot. I like it better than the 300 mags, heavier bullets with the same or less recoil, depending on your individual gun of course.