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.
