Guns and Gear for an Idaho Bear Hunt

by
posted on September 30, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
gg-idahobearhunt_lead.jpg

Editor's Note: Field Editor Brian McCombie put the following gear to use on a recent Idaho black bear hunt. You can catch up on that story here.

Savage Model 116 Bear Hunter
For this hunt, I used a Savage Model 116 Bear Hunter chambered in .300 Win. Mag. and featuring a 23-inch, stainless barrel with an adjustable muzzle brake and a Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity camo synthetic stock. MSRP: $899; savagearms.com.

Federal Premium Edge TLR
My ammunition was the new Federal Premium Edge TLR topped with a tough, 200-grain polymer-tipped bullet. MSRP: $59.95 per 20-rnd. box; federalpremium.com.

Bushnell Optics
I topped the rifle with a Bushnell 4500 Elite 2.5X-10X-40mm scope. My Bushnell Engage 10x42mm binocular provided crisp, clear images even in low light. MSRP: $399.99 4500 Elite 2.5X-10X-40mm, $485.95 Engage binocular; bushnell.com.

Jagdhund USA Koppl Boots
My leg muscles didn’t always want to cooperate, but my Jagdhund USA Koppl boots were a pleasure to wear. They weigh just 1.5 pounds, sport a Vibram sole, and provide first-rate ankle and lateral support. MSRP: $338; jadghund-usa.com.

Latest

Olmsted Shooting BAR MK4 Hunter 2
Olmsted Shooting BAR MK4 Hunter 2

New for 2026: Browning BAR MK 4 Hunter

One of America's favorite semi-automatic hunting rifles is back, in the Browning BAR MK 4. In this video, American Hunter Editor in Chief Scott Olmsted checks out the Hunter model, with a beautiful walnut stock, and aluminum alloy receiver.

New for 2026: Remington 7mm Backcountry Offerings

The 7mm BackCountry came to light last year this time, utilizing a Peak Alloy steel case to raise the pressure limits from the traditional 65,000 psi all the way up to 80,000 psi. For 2026, Remington has joined the party with three offerings for the 7BC: Core-Lokt, Core-Lokt Tipped, and Speer Impact.

Landmark Cougar Reproduction Confirmed in Michigan

Late last month, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) verified a Dec. 6 photo of an adult cougar being followed by two kittens down a snowy trail in central Ontonagon County. The last time the kittens were documented—in early March 2025—they were only about two months old and alone, raising concerns about their survival.

Report: Private Landowner Investments in Conservation Hits Staggering Number

Private lands play a central role in the well-being of people and wildlife throughout the West, but the economic pressure increases each year. A new, groundbreaking report sheds light on the efforts and investments landowners continue to make, despite that challenge, to conserve and steward remaining intact lands and natural resources.

White Label Armory Launches Full Suppressor Lineup

White Label Armory, a manufacturing and supply subsidiary of VKTR Industries, is launching a new budget friendly, duty-capable suppressor line available to dealers exclusively through Sports South.

New for 2026: CVA Scout Spur 28-Gauge

CVA has unveiled its new Scout Spur in 28-gauge with fresh patterns. The Scout Spur is lightweight, handy and now in .28-gauge gives hunters more options in the field.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.