ok well thanks guys. lots of good info here.
ive thought it out, and im just gonna take my benelli nova. i found a short barrel for it for about a 1/5th the price of a revolver.
im most familiar and comfortable with my shotgun compared to all of my other guns and definatley more than a hand cannon. might not even need it, but if we go out just once the entire time up there and there is trouble, then that one time makes it worth it. besides of bear medicine, if at all possible, it would be nice to get a deer or something, as i have a feeling "boat food" might get a little old after a while