Texas Couple Fends Off Bear Cowboy Style

by
posted on August 11, 2020
** 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. **
mainyellowboy.jpg
In a scene that could have leapt from the pages of a Western, Texas native Bill Williams successfully defended himself and his wife from an intruding black bear. The bear initially appeared outside the couple's Colorado summer cabin in the evening, but as he seemed to be minding his own business, Mr. Williams thought best to leave him alone. He did load up his Uberti 1866 Yellowboy carbine however, simply as a precaution. In hindsight, its a good thing he did. The couple awoke with a start at 3:00 a.m. that same night, to the 250-pound animal breaking through the cabin window. Jumping up to investigate, Williams saw the bear on his couch less than four feet away. All told, Williams had to put eight rounds of .45 Long Colt into the black bear before it stopped moving. The couple credits keeping the rifle ready and close with saving their lives. They have since reinforced their door and barred the windows however, as an extra precaution. The Uberti, however, still resides by the bed.


Latest

W H2026 03 Hardware W3788 TAH 0118Final
W H2026 03 Hardware W3788 TAH 0118Final

Hardware Review: Big Horn Armory Model 89 Take Down Carbine

Best known for their large-bore lever actions, Big Horn Armory of Cody, Wyo., adds to their .50 caliber arsenal with the new Model 89 Take Down (TD) Carbine. Chambered in the mighty .500 Smith & Wesson Magnum, the Model 89 TD, as the name implies, comes apart for easy storage and transport.

Updated for 2026: Magpul ELG M-Lok Marlin Handguard

Magpul’s Enhanced Lever Gun (ELG) Stock and Hand Guard updates the classic Marlin lever action rifle for greater control and functionality, adding modern adjustability and ergonomics, M-Lok accessory mounting, sling attachment options and on-board ammunition storage.

New for 2026: HiViZ Shooting Systems LiteWave Sight for Ruger Redhawk Alaskan

HiViz Shooting Systems has expanded its revolver lineup with the introduction of the LiteWave Front Sight for the Ruger Redhawk Alaskan. Designed specifically to complement the rugged performance of Ruger's Redhawk Alaskan revolver, the new LiteWave Front Sight promises fast target acquisition, durability and a customizable sight picture.

Gear Roundup: Spring Cleaning for Hunters

Need to clean the grime off your guns and gear this spring? Look no further than our hunter-specific cleaning lienup.

New for 2026: Henry Bear's Leg Pistol

Henry Repeating Arms is expanding its lineup with the new Bear’s Leg Pistol, a compact, utility-minded platform that blends the unmistakable profile of the classic Mare’s Leg with modern features. Offered in .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, .30-30 Winchester and .45-70 Government, the Bear’s Leg Pistol is purpose-built for versatility and hard use.

First Look: Easton 5mm Steel HIT Break-Off Insert

Easton has announced its 5mm Steel HIT Break-Off 8-32 Insert, giving archers full control over balance and performance. 

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.