Handgun caliber for bear

[NINEROUND]

We will be taking a trip mid-June of this year to Montana. On the itinerary is travel to Glacier National Park and we will be staying on the Swan River near Bigfork. I have the four options available to me handgun-wise for hiking and other outdoor activities. Which would you choose? Personal bear encounter stories are welcome. I am NOT buying another gun for this trip, so please keep the “you should get a ____” out of any replies.
I also plan to take a Mossberg stuffed with 8-9 slugs for around the rental house, but I’m just mainly curious about ya’lls choice for a sidearm. Let’s hear what you have to say, and yeah, I realize this topic is beat to death already, but it’s fun to vote, right?

 

[Biggsly]

I bought the Ruger GP in 10 mm for hiking. I have a Redhawk in 44mag, but it’s heavy. I always carry a 9mm on hikes, so the big gun is just for emergency. I like the revolver better for that.

 

[Hangfire]

Just me but of the four I would probably go with the 10mm and some heavy 220 gr. Buffalo Bore ammo and shoot it enough to become proficient with it.

https://www.buffalobore.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=219
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1001484052

 

[Gunbuffer]

That 4” .357

 

[mmerrill]

I bought the Ruger GP in 10 mm for hiking. I have a Redhawk in 44mag, but it’s heavy. I always carry a 9mm on hikes, so the big gun is just for emergency. I like the revolver better for that.
View attachment 333066

The things you didn't know you needed in your life until you see them.

 

[Gadsden]

The 10mm without a doubt. I wouldn't carry a Glock, but that's only because I don't like the way they fit my hand.

 

[Okie4570]

Glock 20 or 40 with 15 rounds of 10mm

 

[NINEROUND]

https://www.ammoland.com/2019/03/pi...nd-against-bear-attack-95-effective-63-cases/
Interesting article from ammoland. After reading it, it seems that caliber may not be the “big deal” it’s always made out to be.

Still not carrying anything less than .357 though. That’s just me.

 

[LittleLoggie]

Glock 20 or 40 with 15 rounds of 10mm

Definitely. I would also have it in chest rig, and run at least a box through it of the hot stuff before the trip.

Also get a bell to hang off your bag and bear spray. Shooting a bear in a national park even in self defense is going to come with some problems if caught by a ranger.

 

[TeamTomlyn]

Glock 20- because it’s a Glock. Easy to carry, good penetration, 15 round mag, pairs well with a light.