I did say that but I didn't say what I could need the protection from. It could be a bear, a cougar, or dare I say... a wolf. I highly doubt I would ever need to use it under those circumstances but even if it just brings me that little bit greater sense of calm out there, it is worth it. I am not one that worries about wild animals attacking me in the woods because I know the odds are slim but crazier things have happened.