I tried searching, but was unable to find any topics like this.
(maybe I not search so good? )
Anyway, here in Michigan there are reports of bears moving further south than they have in the past, and at several of our favorite camping spots, there have been signs of bear activity. In fact the DNR confirmed it several times to my wife and me.
She has indicated that we need a gun for bear defense, I agree. I have been around guns my entire life, she has been instructed about gun safety and has shot a few times (more training is in order for her). So my question really boils down to what some of our more experienced members think on this issue.
I'm of the opinion that a shotgun and slugs/sabots would be the best defense around camp, and on hikes, but really have been thinking it might be something like a .357 revolver...
I want something with real stopping power, reliable, and easy to operate.
Unless someone can convince me otherwise, my choices are between a .357 as above or a 12 ga. "special purpose" pump like a Mossberg 500 or a Remington 870.
Any advice/opinions are greatly appreciated.
(maybe I not search so good? )
Anyway, here in Michigan there are reports of bears moving further south than they have in the past, and at several of our favorite camping spots, there have been signs of bear activity. In fact the DNR confirmed it several times to my wife and me.
She has indicated that we need a gun for bear defense, I agree. I have been around guns my entire life, she has been instructed about gun safety and has shot a few times (more training is in order for her). So my question really boils down to what some of our more experienced members think on this issue.
I'm of the opinion that a shotgun and slugs/sabots would be the best defense around camp, and on hikes, but really have been thinking it might be something like a .357 revolver...
I want something with real stopping power, reliable, and easy to operate.
Unless someone can convince me otherwise, my choices are between a .357 as above or a 12 ga. "special purpose" pump like a Mossberg 500 or a Remington 870.
Any advice/opinions are greatly appreciated.