The backcountry hiker, hunter, backpacker or sightseer will need protection from those dangerous animals in the wilderness.
But how would you defend yourself against this, or other dangerous animals?
For bears, a female bear or sow with cubs is extremely dangerous.
When backpacking or bow hunting, you need to be aware of predators in your area. None are bigger than the brown bear, and you should be ready.
You must avoid close proximity at all costs.
This leads us to situational awareness.
Where have we heard this before?
Not all signs of a brown bear will be so obvious. Pay attention to your surroundings to avoid stumbling into a dangerous situation.
Likely in a plan to stay alive from pesky human predators.
Situational awareness can help you recognize a dangerous situation manifesting from your actions.
Remember, you are a guest in the wilderness, and the animals that live there own that territory.
Brown bears are massive predators with giant claws. Do not take an encounter lightly.
Bear Spray Is a Good Option
Be prepared to defend with force or deterrence if you must.
Starting with deterrence, lets think about bear spray.
How can someone thwart off a predatory animal like a grizzly bear with something other than a firearm?
Bear spray can be a good option for bear defense. Pistols are another. Having both offers you several layers of defense.
Its a great option, however its not the only option.
There are likely more drawbacks to using bear spray or mace than using it.
With that being said, its the only legitimate non-lethal option for predator deterrence.
Both bear spray and a handgun — such as these Springfield 10mm pistols — can be carried for bear defense.
It is absolutely terrible and burns even after you think you have cleaned it all off.
It can be flat-out debilitating if you dont know what to expect.
How to Shoot Bear Spray
Lets discuss how to avoid contaminating yourself with OC spray.
When deploying bear spray, you should be aware of the wind. Additionally, most sprays offer a limited range and duration.
DO NOT SPRAY INTO THE WIND!!!
Also, do not attempt to use it at close range.
What do you do if it doesnt work?
Before heading into the field, it is a good idea to buy a second canister of bear spray and practice with it. Do not practice with the spray you will carry.
Be ready to utilize your sidearm or rifle.
What does this look like?
Hopefully, whatever is chosen keeps you unscathed, or at the very least alive.
A 10mm handgun is another good bear defense option. Practice getting multiple shots on target quickly.
Whether it be statistically or campfire stories, people still fail when everything is done right.
But, being prepared will drastically increase your chances.
What do I carry?
Training with your pistol while wearing your outdoor gear makes great sense. Backpacks and other items may interfere with your draw or stance.
It could be a rifle and a handgun if its rifle season, or just a handgun if bowhunting.
If hiking or fishing in these areas, it will likely just be a handgun.
There are tons of great options, yet some stand out more than others.
Which is thebest handgun for bear defense?
A handgun chambered in 10mm is an excellent option.
Im partial to the 1911 platform, like the Springfield Armory Ronin 10mm 1911.
A 1911 will lack capacity and require more upkeep than striker-fired options like the Springfield Armory XD-M Elite 10mm.
For a more novice shooter, the XD-M Elite in10mm might be a better option for stopping a bear.
The XD-M Elite 10mm also packs considerably more capacity than a 1911.
The more rounds the better in these situations.
For myself, I personally feel more comfortable and confident with the solid all-steel Ronin 10mm 1911.
This brings up the most important thought or fact I cant stress enough.
The person venturing out into dangerous predator territory needs to have the utmost confidence in what they are carrying.
Closing Thoughts
Well readily admit this is a lot to take in.
Test your skills and see how you shoot under stress with something like a Bill Drill under time.
Deploy bear spray in a safe environment to see how it works and reacts to the environment.
Have your gear dialed in before setting out to any outdoor adventure.
Dont let fear of dangerous predators ruin your trip to enjoy the great outdoors!
Go to forum thread
1911Ronin 5"
XD-MElite 4.5" OSPTM w/ HEX Dragonfly
