Ken E.
Guru
- Joined
- Nov 12, 2016
- Messages
- 1,980
- Location
- United States
- Vessel Name
- Hatt Trick
- Vessel Make
- 45' Hatteras Convertible
To take this in a slightly different direction....
At some point I expect to be cruising in parts of the world where things are a bit more dangerous, and might consider keeping a shotgun on the boat. There is probably only a 25% chance I will, but I would consider it.
And I definitely expect to cruise in some areas where carrying a gun while ashore is either recommended or required because of bears - polar bears in particular.
If my preference were a shotgun (semi automatic or pump action), what ammo would you use in the two situations above?
My desire for cruising less safe parts of the world would be something that would hurt like hell, but least likely to be fatal. I'm thinking bird shot or even rock salt?
And for bears, I'm thinking I'd want something with lots of stopping power, so maybe slugs? They knock me over when I shoot them, so I figure they will knock over what ever they hit.
A hand gun is out of the question, and I don't think a rifle would be appropriate except perhaps for bears?
For bears, an Alaskan friend who spent a lot of time on the Kenai Peninsula area fishing around brown bears (grizzlies) recommends a 12 guage shotgun. A short barrel stainless pump. Mossberg and others make them. First shot to the head, double 00 buckshot. This blinds the bear and makes the following shots with slugs easier. I personally have a CZ tactical 12 Guage with an extended mag tube giving 8+1 rounds, but it's not stainless and corrosion would be a concern on the boat and beach.
Regarding non lethal 12 Guage rounds, you could research what the cops use for riot control. Rock salt may work.
You mentioned that a handgun was out of the question. If it was an option for bears you'd want a minimum of 44 magnum, and maybe 454 Casull if your constitution is up to it. I carry a Ruger 44 mag Alaskan with 305 grain hard cast lead slugs,. These are punishing to fire, but at the point of extremis, I doubt that I'd notice with my life on the line.