Guides in bear country carry 12 gauge with slugs.
Guiding is different than using a or having a personal defensive weapon.
Having shot bears with rifles, shotguns and handguns.
I might just know a bit about the subject.
> Guides in bear country carry 12 gauge with slugs. <
A friend of mine went hunting in Alaska. His guide carried a double-barrel shotgun.
Friend, to guide: Why a double barrel?
Guide, to friend: Two shots are all you going to get.