Last weekend I took a bear, I had to shoot it twice, but upon skinning it, I found a total of five bullet holes. From a very small caliber, no bigger than .243, possibly even .22. Two in the side and one through the neck, unhealed. Stalking the bear, it appeared to be walking a little odd, and had a completely empty stomach, so much so I had to look for it in the gut pile.

I've read in the occasional thread here and there about people finding bullets in elk and moose. I just want to know if this is a relatively common thing that hunters encounter?

Quite frankly, I am appalled that someone, anyone would shoot an animal with such gross incompetence. I am aware it could've been defensive fire, but the angle of the two side shots would imply the bear was broadside/turning/running away.