report- first round of tests for possible bear defense

by bj , Saturday, May 28, 2022, 14:54 (914 days ago)

I borrowed a selection of ammo and firearms and took my young camper to the range (young compared to me). Here is what I was able to borrow:

S&W Model 69 4" (.44 mag) with handloads with 290 grain bullet of LFN type with 19 grains of 296.

Glock 21 .45ACP (this one had a Wilson barrel and stronger spring), I had handloads with normal cheap 255 grain lead SWC over 6 grains of Unique.

S&W 1006 10mm with handloads using 180 grain JHP and 8.2 grains power pistol.

The M69 was easy to shoot and she was accurate with it in single action. It had too much recoil for quick followup shots in double action. With the factory rubber grips that wrap around the backstrap the reach to the trigger was a little bit too long in double action, other grips would help in this regards. We also tried light .44 magnum loads with 240 lead SWC over 8 grains of Unique and those were more controllable in quick double action fire. For the intended use she would have to carry the 240 grain load with 8 grains of Unique, or a similar powder charge under the 290 grain bullets, the hotter loads have too much of an impact on follow up shots.

The Glock was easy to shoot but not totally reliable with that improper bullet shape. If a person was limited to a .45ACP I would think they would get the heavy 250 grain loads available from Buffalo Bore. The advantage of this Glock was that it is relatively light, the identical shape gun is available in 10mm and this gun is also available in a couple of compact versions. I think the compact 10mm Glock would be the best choice for her.

The 1006 was also easy to shoot but for some reason not completely reliable with these loads. It is a heavy gun so recoil was not a problem. It is probably too heavy for her to carry.

I also need to show her the chesty puller holster system that Rob sells, I think that would be good for carry in Colorado mountains.