Black Bear are easy to kill and die fast if hit properly. If something goes wrong, they can be tough. I think the 44 mag with a good 240 gr bullet or heavier weight would be the minimum I would want stop a bear. JD338
Just my opinion, but that right there is enough to make me look into something bigger. I have no experience with bear, nor do I crave any, but I wouldn't use the "minimun" anything to save my life. lol
