Russia doesn't permit handguns, but I'm on a so-so basis with S&W's Paul Pluff who is their resident magic man. He seems to think it MIGHT be possible. Claim the gun is a two-handed short-barreled rifle, or some such. I use Hornady 500-gr. soft points, or a special 600-gr. hard lead. 1400 fps and 2200 lb ME. Worked on a 2800 lb stink bull giraffe, but giraffe got no claws or teeth.

Either that, or I take my .416 Ruger Hawkeye. I imagine it will do the deed. The rifle is stainless with Hogue stock. A bit light, but it's been mag-na-braked and only kicks like a rabid mule. Check out the website for russian bear: http://www.dgoa.com/Tour-Spring-Russian-Brown-Bear-Hunt.htm The bears are larger than the Kodiak variety. The outfitter says I should be able to get a 11-12 footer. That's a damn large bear. I've got 14 foot ceilings in the house, so I can hang a rug, but I'd prefer a mount.