Self defense in the woods (bears / lions)

[michael_aos]

For this application, it seems like ~500 fp/e is more in order.

170gr x 1150fps = 195.5 PF = 499.11 fp/e
210gr x 1050fps = 220.5 PF = 513.98 fp/e

What's "realistic"?

Mike

[ruger]

I personally pack my .475 Linebaugh when in the woods (makes for a good work out).

400 gr @ 1250 fps => 1388 ft-lbs at the muzzle. Plus the distance you get is good. At 100 yds, I still got over 1,000 fps and nearly 1,000 ft-lbs of energy left.

Maybe it is just me, but if I run into a nasty bear, I want to have the ability to reach out and hit em with a freight train.

[Marlin]

What Type of Bullet You planning on useing?

[michael_aos]

What Type of Bullet You planning on useing?

Hadn't necessarily gotten that far yet. I suspect something jacketed or half-jacketed would lead the barrel less...?

Just trying to get a handle on the right "power" level to get me in the ballpark.

I'm drawn to lower velocities (~1000fps) , which could mean heavier bullets to achieve the proper mechanical energy.

I'd been eyeing the 170gr end of the spectrum, but now the 220gr - 250gr is calling to me.

Mike