[xsrdx]

The .454 Casull is a good round for that and I like the snub.

.454 is a huge, intimidating cartridge for a non-shooter, esp in a small-ish platform like the Ruger.

For Alaska, or Montana where 1000lb bears are common, maybe a good choice, but for a 120lb Cougar, a properly loaded 357 or .44 Magnum is PLENTY of gun.

.44 Mag is reasonably suitable for bears, properly loaded.

The .480/.454 is too much gun, too heavy, excessive recoil, for a non shooter concerned about relatively small predators.

JMO.

[umgud]

Ruger is now offering the Alaskan snubbie in .44 mag.