“big bears”

Word to the wise: Sizing bears is tough. But big bears have distinctive traits. Here's what to look for if you're ever in bear country with a tag in your pocket and a black bear in your sights.

A lifetime in the backcountry of the Last Frontier has provided the author with some front-row views to what it takes to stand your ground against a bear that may or may not be bent on harm.

Here’s a look at the best new hunting rounds introduced in the last ten years.

Metric cartridges have traditionally struggled in America, but even in the 1950s, the engineers at Winchester saw the benefits of the 6.5mm bore diameter. The 1958 release of the .264 Winchester Magnum in the Model 70 Westerner rifle saw a flat-shooting, hard-hitting voluminous case, perfect for medium-sized game.

Contributor Philip Massaro shares some of his favorite rifles and loads for different bear hunting scenarios.

Just what goes into building the ultimate Western big-game rig? Here are a few components to consider.

We were on a mission to hunt the African troublemaker with muzzleloaders. Our mantra: Better get that first shot right.

While you can access the heart of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, a bastion for big bears, on horseback, success could leave you wishing for a canoe upon your return.

Taking a truly big bear—be it in Alaska, Canada, Russia or elsewhere—is so special that just one can be enough in a hunter’s lifetime.