Super post. Very true. But a BIG revolver can work. Some want a .32 or nine, maybe a 10mm.
Carry guns are sighted at 7 yards.
I suppose the smallest for me in bear country would be a .475. No I don't want it in a stinking 2" barrel. A rifle or shotgun is best but a longer barrel revolver will not work.
Everyone is a quick draw artist for the seconds a bear can reach you.
It has been proven a BG can reach you with a knife before you can draw and fire. Now a bear is much faster. He has more then one knife.
Then the fear and adrenaline kicks in so to hit anything means to carry the salt and pepper. Many can't hit a deer with a rifle.
The gun must be in hand, not a holster. You do not have time to draw. Toss the quick draw stuff.
do you sling a rifle across your back in bear country or is it in your hand? Same with a big revolver.
I do not want a stinking Ruger Alaskan.