Suitable caliber for Grizz

[xXLojackXx]

I'm going to be doing some backcountry hiking this summer over in Montana. Was curious if anyone thinks a 10mm is sufficient for a side arm in the event of personal protection from a grizz. If not I suppose that gives me reason to go buy a nice Alaskan obviously the 454's and 460's are a little better suited for the job. Whatcha think?

[rtspring]

Same reason I bought a 500 SW.  Shooting 550 grain bullets!

[wildmanoutdoors]

If you take your 10mm, save the last shot for yourself!

[Austrian Hunter]

What about a .45 

[wildmanoutdoors]

45 ACP. Use the first one on yourself! 

[MtnMuley]

I've done a lot of thinking and research on this issue.  I choose the Ultralight 44mag, just because of it's carry weight.  99.9% chance you'll never need it, and this gun's weight is sure nice. 

[wildmanoutdoors]

The lightweight is a compromise. Your getting a light gun for sure. But they are limited on how heavy, and powerful of ammo you can run safely. I almost bought the 329PD, but after reading up, I went the Alaskan route shooting +P+ ammo.

[SGTDuffman]

From everything I've ever read, bear spray is a better option. Also cheaper and lighter. I'm not aware of any case where spray was used and a person has been killed. As far as I can tell there have only been 3 people injured while carrying spray, and they were part of a student group attacked in Alaska who never deployed their spray because it was in their backpacks. Because of those 3 (1 of the 4 attacked didn't have spray), spray is effective only 98% of the time. Handguns are effective 84% of the time. Rifles, even less than that. I'd take the spray.

Though, that would take away an excellent reason for another gun, which is unfortunate to say the least. Maybe you could get the gun anyways and say that's what it's for then just take spray instead.

http://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/nature/Shoot-or-Spray.html

[xXLojackXx]

Haha I once had an alaskan guide tell me to file the front sight off my .45lc so it wouldn't hurt as bad when the bear shoves it up your a$$.

On that note I'll keep a 10mm for the blackies and I'll look into a short revolver in a bigger caliber for grizz. But in the event of needing to use it I'll be lucky to hit the bear while pissing my pants simultaneously

[Broken Arrow]

Cary what ever makes you feel supported. However don't overlook some data about attacks. IMHO I would carry both:

http://missoulian.com/news/state-and-regional/research-bear-spray-stops-angry-grizzlies-better-than-guns/article_b0d338b6-7638-11e1-b809-0019bb2963f4.html

[wildmanoutdoors]

Ya its really hard to hit your target when its charging you and your screaming like a little girl with poop and pee filling your pants.
Id definately carry the spray also as maybe my first option. Spray is a no go if the wind is in your face though! And thats how most hunt.

[CP]

pack one these:

[h20hunter]

Skip the gun altogether......not gonna save your butt. Just make sure you always hunt with somebody slower and fatter....YOU will be fine.

[wildmanoutdoors]

Actually in that case H20, bring any caliber and even if your friend is faster just shoot him in the leg!

[sirmissalot]

I pack an ultra light 44 mag loaded hot with the 300 grain Barnes busters which are a solid. Never had an issue shooting hot loads or heavy bullets, this is a 329PD Alaskan backpacker IV. Sweet little gun and it shoots great. The 10mm is a good option but I prefer a revolver in the dusty back country we hunt.