Backcountry sidearm preference?

[alaska2go]

Revolver,, 44 mag, minimum bullet weight 270 gr, hard cast preferred, I use speer 270 GDSP, has killed 1 bear at full charge w/ shot to the center of chest. The bullet passed through and broke his spine @ about 30 feet. He stopped and ran the other way dragging his left hind leg for 40 yards or so, then died. Not what I was expecting. If you surprise a grizz @ close range I don't believe there is much a guy can do, but try to survive. I have had some close encounters with grizzlies but usually knowing they are in my zone for several minutes. To surprise one, well I have not done that yet. They have power beyond comprehension !!!! I have a S&W performance w/ 6" barrel. I would like to have the ultra light on back pack hunts. Practice, practice, and do some more practice.

 

[HuskyMusky]

They make some powerful .45 rounds... more powerful than a .44mag, can get a .454 and shoot strong .45 loads in it.

I have a taurus tracker .44mag 5 shot. I like it. forget what it weighs but it's on the lighter end, but not too light, doesn't kick that bad at all IMO.

If grizzlies aren't a real concern just black bear and cougar wolves and mankind, I think 9mm, 40, 10mm, 45 etc... might be nice, especially a light setup.

 

[WRO]

There was a self defense killed brown bear in ak with a 9mm a few years ago, personally I've carried a 10 mm glock and thought it was plenty. Id take the speed of an auto over a revolver any day.

 

[Colorado Cowboy]

I am a certified pistol instructor and competition shooter. No matter what you end up carrying, the most important thing is to practice (as previously mentioned) with the gun & ammunition you intend to use. I would shoot at least 100 rounds thru it annually on several trips to the range. Muscle memory and familiarization with the gun, functioning and recoil needs to be learned. I would also carry bear spray too. Remember another thing for anyone going to Canada....handguns are not allowed. If you are traveling to Alaska by vehicle, send the gun to an FFL in Alaska, and back home to your local FFL.

Anyone can pull the trigger, but to do it efficiently and with accuracy takes practice.....and more practice!

 

[brianboh]

I am personally carrying a Glock 10mm. Very dependable clean dirty beat up against a rock. They always go BOOM BOOM BOOM. With the extra capacity that it holds 15 rounds minimal recoil and faster recovery then some of the revolvers. I have not had to shoot at a bear and hope I don't have to. However if I do he is going to feel it one way or another.

 

[theleo91386]

My personal carry in the sticks is a 44 special BH loaded warm. I still like the idea of a S&W model 69 though.

 

[Bughalli]

Glock 23 (40cal) with only 5 shots or so. Weight is a factor, so I keep it small and light. I would be surprised if I got to use more than 1 or 2 shots anyway.

 

[mgorm16640]

I try and follow the 431 rule. 40 caliber or greater. 300 grain bullet or heavier moving at least 1000 fps at the muzzle. Meet those minimums and nothing else matters.

 

[Vikingload]

I have carried a .44 Blackhawk and it is heavy and not to quick on the shot with it. I also have carried a HK .40, but that is mainly for Wolves or survival. I just acquired a kimber 10mm that can be a in between gun. The biggest thing is something you can draw and pop a couple shots off with quick. I've never been quick with a revolver, but with a semi auto I'm decent in a pinch.


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[Ikeepitcold]

I pack a .45 SW compact auto.

 

[Finsandtines]

I have a beretta px4 Storm 40 and a 45 xd, I would imagine either would work? Both are heavy as hell.

 

[alaska2go]

There is an article & video in today's Alaska Dispatch news on a survivor of a brown bear attack. It will give you guys a perspective on the destruction they can do in just a couple of seconds.