[SLB]

Really surprised at the lack of understanding in bear country. Make noise, lots of noise. Break sticks, throw rocks and whistle and talk. Then we have the pros taking them on with a handgun. Hope their wills are in order. Many guides in Alaska carry a 12 ga pump gun with slugs or something in the .458 Winchester category. The .44 mag or .454 is only a last resort after the magazine for the shotgun or rifle is empty. I have hunted elk and deer just South of Yellowstone and we always made sure we let the bear know we coming. Never had a problem and saw lots of sign. No, it did not smell like pepper. We even left elk hanging in trees for five or six days and did not have problems, just take the right precautions.

[Lucy Lake]

An old saying:

"When shooting Griz with a handgun, save the last round for yourself."

[Squantos]

When I was stationed in Alaska my primary truck and house gun was a 12 gauge pump stuffed with slugs the first round being a # 9 bird shot. Dust their paws with a No 9 and either they will leave quick or they are slug bait.

I do now carry a .500 linebaugh ruger blackhawk bisley when I get back up there to fish. But as you state when out an about bear country ya have to be careful , make enough noise so the bear will stay out of "your" way. BTW no caliber ,sluggun, rifle or handgun, is "enough" when you realize you ain't at the top of the food chain anymore...

My old 870 was real clean and serviceable "inside" but it had about 12 coats of rustolieum paint on the exterior. Real ugly gun but real comfort when needed.

Stay Safe !