5.45 X 39.... bad enough for Bear?

[xl_target]

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Authorities have determined that a hiker was justified in shooting and killing a brown bear.

The hiker, who was alone, came across the bear Sunday along the Turnagain Arm trail, and the animal charged him.

Alaska State Troopers say the investigation has determined the shooting falls under defense of life and property.

Troopers won't identify the hiker, and the defense of life and property investigation is not a public record.

The hiker shot 13 rounds from an AK-74 at the bear from about 25 feet away. The hiker wasn't injured.

Officials say the bear was skinned and the head removed. But a large portion of the carcass remains about 100 yards off the trail south of Anchorage, and likely will attract other bears. Part of the trail remains closed.

Troopers determine that bear killing was justified.

Some thoughts:
1. Who would have thought that 5.45 was an effective "Bear Caliber"? I suppose, being FMJ, it penetrated well.
2. Who carries an AK when out hiking?
3. There must have been plenty of evidence of an attack. Poaching a bear out of season in Alaska is a quick way to get incarcerated.
4. 25 ft away! It's amazing he was able to react quick enough. I sure hope this guy was carrying an extra set of underwear.

[Safarigent]

Damn lucky chap, if you ask me.
And a lunatic! Like you said, who goes hiking with an Ak???

[timmy]

No doubt, a very lucky ending! I find it curious that he was able to get off 13 rounds at a charging bear, and put them where it counted sufficiently enough to make them lethal. As you note, XL, penetration must have been a plus for him.

As far as carrying, my little SKS "Paratrooper" is very handy, being only 35 inches/90 cm or so inches overall. it is very handy. Most AKs come with a similar 16 inch barrel. But while it might be handy to carry, it can't be a wise choice at all in bear country!

[Hammerhead]

Brown bears are huge and will take lot more lead than 7.62X39. Probably shots are not placed properly to drop it - Moving animal !!

[Mark]

......Like you said, who goes hiking with an Ak???

I tell you what, if I am hiking in bear country and it is legal, I'll carry whatever can get my hands on!

I'd rather be on a trail with an AK instead of on a couch somewhere bemoaning the fact there were bears and I couldn't find an '06 or 12 gauge to carry with me.