Blktail, you didn't say what kind of bear that you hunt. I will assume that you are after Black Bear for the sake of arguement. Although, I have friends here that want me to hunt Browns with my 30-06. I am working up loads for 180gr Barnes X Tripple Shock bullets. I have loaded 168 gr Tripple Shocks ahead of RE 19 (61.0 grains)in Remington Cases. Out of my Speer Reloading Manual #13, it lists this as a Max load and a starting load of 57.0 gr. I have been unable to find a loading manual for this specific bullet, but I can tell you that the 168's are extremely accurate out of my "run of the mill" rifle. if you try the 180's the Cartridge Over all length is 3.250", start with 55 gr.s of Reloader 19 and work from there to a Max of 59.0. I love Reloader 19 powder and Winchester primers, the powder is extremely clean and very accurate. I hope this helps, I'm in Alaska as I assume you are as well. e-mail me at
jthornton7771@gci.net if you have questions.
Jerry