{"id":743,"date":"2023-01-23T17:11:59","date_gmt":"2023-01-23T17:11:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/?p=743"},"modified":"2023-01-23T17:11:59","modified_gmt":"2023-01-23T17:11:59","slug":"is-bear-spray-better-than-a-pistol","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/?p=743","title":{"rendered":"Is Bear Spray Better Than a Pistol?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"player-inline-wrapper no-margin-top\">\n<div class=\"video-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<iframe class=\"player-inline\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/787349831?h=cff571bc5a&amp;api=1\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen\" allowfullscreen=\"\"><\/iframe><\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"byline\">By <a class=\"byline-author ajax-home\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/author\/hunt-fish-shoot\/\">Hunt Fish Shoot<\/a><\/p>\n<p><em>Editor\u2019s note: When in the outdoors, predators like brown bears can be a real threat. Carrying bear spray or a pistol is a prudent choice. Carrying both might be even smarter. Do you know how to use them against a charging bear? Is one better than the other? Hunt Fish Shoot tackles these questions in today\u2019s video.<\/em><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-38969\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-spray-or-a-pistol-bear-country.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-spray-or-a-pistol-bear-country-800x450.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-spray-or-a-pistol-bear-country-400x225.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-spray-or-a-pistol-bear-country-768x432.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-spray-or-a-pistol-bear-country-600x338.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">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\u00a0ready.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><span class=\"dropcap\">S<\/span>o, you have decided to embark on a backcountry trip in a state which contains dangerous animals. The backcountry hiker, hunter, backpacker or sightseer will need protection from those dangerous animals in the wilderness.<\/p>\n<p>I have hunted states like Alaska, Idaho and Montana, which are all known for a good grizzly bear population. But how would you defend yourself against this, or other dangerous animals? We must defend ourselves and use a form of protection which can mitigate these risks to get home safely while enjoying the great outdoors.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-38970\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-warning.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-warning-800x450.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-warning-400x225.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-warning-768x432.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-warning-600x338.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"788\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-warning.jpg\" alt=\"bear warning\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-warning.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-warning-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-warning-400x225.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-warning-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/bear-warning-600x338.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Not all signs of a brown bear will be so obvious. Pay attention to your surroundings to avoid stumbling into a dangerous\u00a0situation.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>Awareness and Avoidance<\/h2>\n<p>The best way to defend yourself and protect against an animal attack is to use common sense. For bears, a female bear or sow with cubs is extremely dangerous. You must avoid close proximity at all costs. Most animal attacks in general occur due to startling the animal, with it initiating a fight or flight response.<\/p>\n<p>This leads us to situational awareness. Where have we heard this before? 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.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-38971\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-claw-marks-on-tree.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-claw-marks-on-tree-800x535.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-claw-marks-on-tree-400x267.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-claw-marks-on-tree-768x513.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-claw-marks-on-tree-600x401.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"936\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-claw-marks-on-tree.jpg\" alt=\"brown bear claw marks on tree\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-claw-marks-on-tree.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-claw-marks-on-tree-800x535.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-claw-marks-on-tree-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-claw-marks-on-tree-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-claw-marks-on-tree-600x401.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Brown bears are massive predators with giant claws. Do not take an encounter\u00a0lightly.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>Bear Spray Is a Good Option<\/h2>\n<p>Be prepared to defend with force or deterrence if you must. Starting with deterrence, let\u2019s think about bear spray. By all means, the avid hunter never wants to have to kill an animal to defend their own life, but at times it occurs. How can someone thwart off a predatory animal like a grizzly bear with something other than a firearm?<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-38972\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/is-bear-spray-better-than-a-pistol-1.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/is-bear-spray-better-than-a-pistol-1-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/is-bear-spray-better-than-a-pistol-1-400x266.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/is-bear-spray-better-than-a-pistol-1-768x511.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/is-bear-spray-better-than-a-pistol-1-600x399.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"932\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/is-bear-spray-better-than-a-pistol-1.jpg\" alt=\"is bear spray better than a pistol\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/is-bear-spray-better-than-a-pistol-1.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/is-bear-spray-better-than-a-pistol-1-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/is-bear-spray-better-than-a-pistol-1-400x266.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/is-bear-spray-better-than-a-pistol-1-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/is-bear-spray-better-than-a-pistol-1-600x399.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Bear spray can be a good option for bear defense. Pistols are another. Having both offers you several layers of\u00a0defense.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Bear spray? It\u2019s a great option, however it\u2019s not the only option. There are likely more drawbacks to using bear spray or mace than using it. With that being said, it\u2019s the only legitimate non-lethal option for predator deterrence.<\/p>\n<div class=\"newsletter inline\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" style=\"display: none;\" class=\"logo-tal-icon\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/themes\/thearmorylife\/img\/logo-tal-tm-icon.svg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Live The Armory Life.<\/strong> The latest content straight to your inbox plus an automatic entry to each of our <a class=\"ajax-giveaways\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/giveaways\/\"><strong>monthly gun\u00a0giveaways!<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>With Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) spray, bear spray or mace, you undoubtedly have to worry about over-spray and contaminating yourself or those around you with the spray. Take it from me, I have been sprayed by law enforcement OC spray, which is just like bear spray but in a smaller volume. It is absolutely terrible and burns even after you think you have cleaned it all off. It can be flat-out debilitating if you don\u2019t know what to expect.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-38973\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-defense.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-defense-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-defense-400x266.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-defense-768x511.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-defense-600x399.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"932\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-defense.jpg\" alt=\"brown bear defense\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-defense.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-defense-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-defense-400x266.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-defense-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/brown-bear-defense-600x399.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Both bear spray and a handgun \u2014 such as these Springfield 10mm pistols \u2014 can be carried for bear\u00a0defense.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Even with the fact it could seriously affect you, if used, I would still highly recommend carrying OC spray or the specially designed bear spray sized \u201cfogger\u201d can in conjunction with a capable sidearm.<\/p>\n<h2>How to Shoot Bear Spray<\/h2>\n<p>Let\u2019s discuss how to avoid contaminating yourself with OC spray. I have personally deployed OC spray in the course of my law enforcement duties and been around it while it\u2019s been deployed. Every single one of those uses by myself or someone else, led to me feeling the effects of the contents. It burns like hell, but if you mitigate the contamination, you will not be knocked out of the fight and still ready to defend.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-38974\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/how-to-use-bear-spray.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/how-to-use-bear-spray-800x500.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/how-to-use-bear-spray-400x250.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/how-to-use-bear-spray-768x480.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/how-to-use-bear-spray-600x375.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"875\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/how-to-use-bear-spray.jpg\" alt=\"how to use bear spray\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/how-to-use-bear-spray.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/how-to-use-bear-spray-800x500.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/how-to-use-bear-spray-400x250.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/how-to-use-bear-spray-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/how-to-use-bear-spray-600x375.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">When deploying bear spray, you should be aware of the wind. Additionally, most sprays offer a limited range and\u00a0duration.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The wind, distance to the target and how much you deploy will all play a factor in effectiveness and your own safety. DO NOT SPRAY INTO THE WIND!!! Also, do not attempt to use it at close range. Bear spray can be used up to 25 to 35 feet away, which is still close but gives you a bit of a reactionary gap. When you turn the \u201csafety\u201d off the can, pull the trigger with the can aimed at the animal, downwind preferably, and hope it deters the bear.<\/p>\n<p>What do you do if it doesn\u2019t work? Be ready to utilize your sidearm or rifle. What does this look like? Well, you may only have a second or two at maximum to act while a predator is bearing down on you. No pun intended. In an encounter with a dangerous predator, having the spray at the ready as well as your sidearm may be the most ideal.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-38975\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/demonstration-on-how-to-use-bear-spray.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/demonstration-on-how-to-use-bear-spray-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/demonstration-on-how-to-use-bear-spray-400x266.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/demonstration-on-how-to-use-bear-spray-768x511.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/demonstration-on-how-to-use-bear-spray-600x399.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"932\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/demonstration-on-how-to-use-bear-spray.jpg\" alt=\"demonstration on how to use bear spray\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/demonstration-on-how-to-use-bear-spray.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/demonstration-on-how-to-use-bear-spray-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/demonstration-on-how-to-use-bear-spray-400x266.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/demonstration-on-how-to-use-bear-spray-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/demonstration-on-how-to-use-bear-spray-600x399.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">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\u00a0carry.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>With either option, there is no guarantee the spray or even well-placed shots from a capable firearm will stop a charging grizzly or brown bear in time. Hopefully, whatever is chosen keeps you unscathed, or at the very least alive. Whether it be statistically or campfire stories, people still fail when everything is done right. Try to stack the odds in your favor because, at the end of the day, unfortunately, your efforts may still not be good enough. But, being prepared will drastically increase your chances.<\/p>\n<h2>When Bear Spray Fails: Firearm Choices<\/h2>\n<p>In every backcountry trip I have taken into bear or dangerous predator territory, I carry a gun. What do I carry? It could be a rifle and a handgun if it\u2019s 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 the <a class=\"ajax-article\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/handguns-for-bear-defense\/\">best handgun for bear defense<\/a>?<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-38976\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/pistol-for-brown-bear-defense.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/pistol-for-brown-bear-defense-800x500.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/pistol-for-brown-bear-defense-400x250.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/pistol-for-brown-bear-defense-768x480.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/pistol-for-brown-bear-defense-600x375.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"875\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/pistol-for-brown-bear-defense.jpg\" alt=\"pistol for brown bear defense\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/pistol-for-brown-bear-defense.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/pistol-for-brown-bear-defense-800x500.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/pistol-for-brown-bear-defense-400x250.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/pistol-for-brown-bear-defense-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/pistol-for-brown-bear-defense-600x375.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A 10mm handgun is another good bear defense option. Practice getting multiple shots on target\u00a0quickly.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>A handgun chambered in 10mm is an excellent option. I\u2019m 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 <span class=\"nowrap\">XD-M<\/span> Elite 10mm. For a more novice shooter, the <span class=\"nowrap\">XD-M<\/span> Elite in <a class=\"ajax-article\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/will-10mm-stop-a-bear\/\">10mm might be a better option for stopping a bear<\/a>. The <span class=\"nowrap\">XD-M<\/span> Elite 10mm also packs considerably more capacity than a 1911. The more rounds the better in these situations.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-38977\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/shooting-a-bear-with-a-pistol.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/shooting-a-bear-with-a-pistol-800x450.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/shooting-a-bear-with-a-pistol-400x225.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/shooting-a-bear-with-a-pistol-768x432.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/shooting-a-bear-with-a-pistol-600x338.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"788\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/shooting-a-bear-with-a-pistol.jpg\" alt=\"shooting a bear with a pistol\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/shooting-a-bear-with-a-pistol.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/shooting-a-bear-with-a-pistol-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/shooting-a-bear-with-a-pistol-400x225.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/shooting-a-bear-with-a-pistol-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/shooting-a-bear-with-a-pistol-600x338.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Training with your pistol while wearing your outdoor gear makes great sense. Backpacks and other items may interfere with your draw or\u00a0stance.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>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 can\u2019t stress enough. The person venturing out into dangerous predator territory needs to have the utmost confidence in what they are carrying.<\/p>\n<h2>Closing Thoughts<\/h2>\n<p>We\u2019ll readily admit this is a lot to take in. Yet, if you are prepared a backcountry expedition into a dangerous predator\u2019s backyard doesn\u2019t have to deter you from experiencing some of the most beautiful places on the planet.<\/p>\n<p>Be cautious, be prepared, train with your weapons and research your future locale to see what it may hold. 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. Don\u2019t let fear of dangerous predators ruin your trip to enjoy the great outdoors!<\/p>\n<p><em>Editor\u2019s Note: Please be sure to check out The Armory Life Forum, where you can comment about our daily articles, as well as just talk guns and gear. Click the \u201cGo To Forum Thread\u201d link below to jump in and discuss this article and much more!<\/em><\/p>\n<h5 class=\"heading heading-forum-thread hide-share\"><span>Join the Discussion<\/span><\/h5>\n<p class=\"forum-thread-button-wrapper hide-share\"><a class=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/forum\/threads\/13977\/\">Go to forum thread<\/a><\/p>\n<h5 class=\"heading heading-featured hide-share\"><span>Featured in this video<\/span><\/h5>\n<section class=\"featured hide-share grid-two\">&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<a class=\"product series-1911 \" href=\"https:\/\/www.springfield-armory.com\/1911-series-handguns\/1911-ronin-handguns\/1911-ronin-10mm-handgun\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"caliber\"><span class=\"cal-10mm\">10<sup>mm<\/sup><\/span><\/span>&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"max-width: 93%; margin-top: 2.1rem; margin-bottom: .5rem;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/PX9121L.png\" alt=\"1911 Ronin\u00ae 5&quot;\"\/>&#13;<\/p>\n<h3>1911 <span>Ronin\u00ae 5&#8243;<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<a class=\"product series-xdm \" href=\"https:\/\/www.springfield-armory.com\/xd-series-handguns\/xd-m-elite-handguns\/xd-m-elite-45-osp-10mm-handgun-w-hex-dragonfly\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"caliber\"><span class=\"cal-10mm\">10<sup>mm<\/sup><\/span><\/span>&#13;\n\t\t\t\t\t<picture loading=\"lazy\" style=\"width: 90%; margin-bottom: 0.75rem;\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/XDME94510BHCOSPD.png.webp\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/XDME94510BHCOSPD.png\" alt=\"XD-M\u00ae Elite 4.5&quot; OSP\u2122 w\/ HEX Dragonfly\"\/>\n<\/picture>\n&#13;<\/p>\n<h3>XD-M\u00ae <span>Elite 4.5&#8243; OSP\u2122 w\/ HEX Dragonfly<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/section>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/is-bear-spray-better-than-a-pistol\/\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>By Hunt Fish Shoot Editor\u2019s note: When in the outdoors, predators like brown bears can be a real threat. Carrying bear spray or a pistol is a prudent choice. Carrying both might be even smarter. Do you know how to use them against a charging bear? Is one better than the other? Hunt Fish Shoot [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":744,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-743","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/743","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=743"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/743\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/744"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=743"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=743"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=743"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}