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The very first thing it’s essential to learn about bear protection handguns is that if you end up needing to make use of one, issues have gone terribly fallacious. It is best to by no means be comfy with the concept that the one factor between you and an attacking bear is likely to be a handgun. Even the behemoth .500 S&W Magnum has about half the power of a .375 Ruger — which some think about to be on the lighter finish of the spectrum for stopping a pissed-off brown bear.
A practical manner to have a look at bear protection handguns is that they’re higher than nothing. A giant rifle and even slug gun is a correct instrument for conditions the place a harmful encounter is even remotely possible. However for the remainder of the time, a bear protection handgun is a good alternative in the event you can carry it and shoot it proficiently. They’ve been used efficiently to thwart bear assaults every year. Listed here are my finest bear protection handgun picks:
Issues to Contemplate Earlier than Shopping for the Finest Bear Protection Handgun
A Bear Protection Handgun Labored If the Assault is Stopped
The metric by which many individuals measure bear-stopping success is a bit fantastical in terms of bear protection handguns. Most individuals think about a bear charging, and the measure of success is whether or not the bear folds to the bottom, sliding as much as their ft or not. The reality is that it in all probability received’t occur like that. Hell, three months in the past I shot a medium-sized inside grizzly operating towards me at 15 paces with a hot-loaded .338 Win. Magazine., and that strong shot to the chest didn’t even take her off her ft instantly. When you should defend your self from a bear with a handgun, any scenario during which you come out unscathed is a win, even when the bear runs off.
You’ll Must Shoot a Bear Extra Than As soon as
Contemplating that many bear expenses stopped by rifles contain multiple shot, you’re nearly assured to have you ever shoot a bear greater than as soon as with a pistol in the event you’re pressured to defend your self. Decide a bear protection handgun that’s nimble to deal with, you can follow with, and you can shoot precisely below stress. Ammunition capability will be essential. Many keyboard consultants will let you know that you simply’ll solely get one shot off, so energy is what issues. The reality is that the one bear claws most of those people will ever encounter are stored below clear plexiglass and distributed with aluminum tongs. Typically you may get one shot, generally none. Within the warmth of the second although, ammo goes fast.
Due to these details, the 10mm Auto has seen an increase in recognition as a defensive cartridge in bear nation. Some nonetheless favor massive revolver cartridges, however with the best 10mm ammo, the cartridge has confirmed to be efficient in stopping bear assaults.
Learn Subsequent: Charged by a Grizzly: A 10mm Glock (and Serious Practice) Saved My Life
In a latest vary take a look at, we shot the 10mm against a light .44 Mag. and proved what many hunters already know: The 10mm is way simpler to shoot shortly and precisely.
The Gun You Have is Higher Than the One You Don’t
To choose a bear protection handgun that might be efficient for you, it’s essential to choose one which you’ll carry on a regular basis. Having a handgun you can carry and use intuitively with out impeding you within the woods is extra useful than having a particular caliber or researching ballistic power tables. The 9mm loaded with Buffalo Bore hard-cast bullets that you’ve is all the time going to be higher than the cannon you left at camp as a result of it’s a ache within the ass to hold.
Finest Bear Protection Handguns: Evaluations & Suggestions
Glock Gen 5 G20
Glock Gen 5 G20
Key Options
- Caliber: 10mm Auto
- Capability: 15+1
- Barrel: 4.6 inches
- Body: Polymer
- Optics Compatibility: Glock MOS optic mounting system
- Value: $700
There are two main camps in terms of handguns for bear protection—massive bore wheelguns and nimble semiautos—and the Glock G20 is the poster youngster of the second. Over the previous decade it has turn into the most well-liked backcountry carry pistol, possible by a large margin. Whereas some think about a .44 Magnum revolver to be the minimal for a bear safety handgun, the 10mm G20 has confirmed itself as not solely a succesful assault stopper, however a normal for backcountry carry. The new Gen 5 G20 has a couple of enhancements and the identical nice efficiency.
Like different Glock Fashions, the G20’s magnificence is its simplicity. It’s a polymer-framed, semi-automatic pistol with a 15+1 spherical capability. Till lately, it was the one generally obtainable double stack 10mm on gun retailer cabinets. It incorporates a 4.61-inch barrel, is simple to shoot, and runs with unquestionable reliability.
Early Glock 10mm barrels didn’t have nice case head help and earned a popularity for catastrophic failures on high-pressure 10mm masses. In any Gen 4 or newer Glock G20, that’s not one thing you’ll have to fret about. You possibly can safely fireplace manufacturing unit ammo like Buffalo Bore, Underwood, and others. Glock barrels do are likely to accumulate lead fouling with hard-cast bullets, simply follow with copper-jacketed ammo and clear your bore nicely after taking pictures forged bullets.
Learn Subsequent: Best Glocks, A Complete Guide to Glock Pistols
Springfield XD-M Elite 3.8-inch Compact OSP
Springfield XD-M Elite 3.8-inch compact OSP
Key Options
- Caliber: 10mm Auto
- Capability: 11+1 or 15+1
- Barrel: 3.8 inches
- Body: Polymer
- Optics Compatibility: Springfield plate adapter system
- Value: $780
The recognition of the 10mm Auto as a backcountry and bear protection handgun cartridge has introduced numerous consideration and variety to the choices on this specific class. One of the vital versatile 10mm pistols within the pack is the XD-M Elite 3.8-inch Compact OSP. Its mannequin identify is a mouthful, however this compact 10mm brings the products.
Because the identify signifies, it’s a compact 10mm pistol with a 3.8-inch barrel. It incorporates a detachable magwell and comes with 11-round magazines. It’s additionally appropriate with Springfield’s sleeved 15-round magazines to match the capability of the G20. In total dimensions, it’s almost similar in measurement to Glock’s compact 10mm, the G29. Nevertheless, the Springfield is rather more forgiving to shoot. It comes customary with an optics minimize and detachable plate, however can be obtainable with Springfield’s Hex Dragonfly purple dot sight. I’ve settled on a Leupold Delta Point Pro for mine.
After reviewing this pistol, I purchased it. You possibly can read the full review here. I’ve carried it since then and have round 2,000 rounds by way of the gun with out a lot as a hiccup. I eliminated the magwell and located that it improved the grip for me. The gun may be very controllable with full-house 10mm masses, particularly utilizing a GoGun Gas Pedal takedown lever, and I discovered that I solely lose about 75 ft per second of velocity in comparison with a 5-inch aftermarket G20 barrel with sizzling bear masses.
Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0
Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0
Key Options
- Caliber: 10mm Auto
- Capability: 15+1
- Barrel: 4 inches
- Body: Polymer
- Optics Compatibility: S&W adapter plates
- Value: $610
A 10mm addition to the Smith & Wesson M&P line is a welcome sight for M&P followers in search of a bear protection handgun. Constructed on the M&P 2.0 .45 ACP body, the M&P 2.0 10mm incorporates a full-size grip, 15+1 spherical capability, and a 4-inch barrel. It options glorious grip texture and ergonomics, an ambidextrous slide cease, and reversible journal catch button, making it lefty pleasant. This gun additionally comes optics-ready and contains a number of mounting adapter plates.
I examined and reviewed the M&P 2.0 10mm, then ran one other one laborious at our Best Handguns of 2023 take a look at. It’s correct, dependable, and has in all probability the perfect grip contour and texture of any manufacturing unit polymer 10mm. For optimum match, it contains the usual interchangeable M&P grip modules for a thinner or fatter grip. The stippling texture doesn’t slip simply, even with sweaty arms.
The M&P 2.0 10mm has a bit snappier recoil than the G20, however the safe, comfy grip makes it manageable. A giant benefit for a sensible bear protection handgun is coaching and familiarity. When you’re already carrying or taking pictures an M&P pistol, this can be a nice possibility for the backcountry.
FN 510 Tactical
FN 510 Tactical
Key Options
- Caliber: 10mm Auto
- Capability: 15+1, 22+1
- Barrel: 4.71 inches
- Body: Polymer
- Optics Compatibility: FN optic adapter plates
- Value: $1,000
This previous yr, FN USA introduced one other strong, reliable 10mm semi-auto to the market: the FN 510 Tactical. The 510 is predicated on the smaller 509 collection and is a full-sized pistol that’s versatile, user-friendly, and completely ambidextrous. It comes with a normal 15-round and an prolonged 22-round journal that provides it unparalleled capability for a 10mm.
I examined the 510 extensively and wrote a full review, however shooters who’re accustomed to the 509 collection received’t discover any surprises right here. The pistol has a long-pulling double-action set off and tall sights—the rear sight is protected against impression by a wing on both sides. The 510 Tactical has a 4.71-inch threaded barrel that may accommodate a suppressor or compensator, and the slide is optic prepared. It’s an enormous pistol, however sensible for the woods, particularly for anybody who already shoots FN pistols nicely.
Glock G29 Gen 5
Key Options
- Caliber: 10mm Auto
- Capability: 10+1 rounds
- Barrel: 3.78 inches
- Body: Polymer
- Optics Compatibility: Iron sights solely
- Value: $550
The Glock G29 is the unique sub-compact 10mm pistol, and this pint-sized powerhouse has endurance. The Gen 5 model doesn’t characteristic the MOS optic mounting system that a few of the different fifth technology Glocks have, however it does share a few of the favorable enhancements over earlier fashions. First, the annoying finger groves have been ditched, and the grip options the raised stipple texturing that may simply be improved with house stippling. The pistol has extra backstrap items which will help the pistol suit your hand higher — significantly if in case you have massive arms. The Gen 5 G29 has ambidextrous slide cease levers and each entrance and rear cocking serrations.
There isn’t room to your pinkie on this little grip, and it’s not very nice to shoot. Nevertheless, an excellent compact pistol will be fairly useful to hold, and with follow, you should use if successfully in an emergency — particularly in a holster that’s under or attached to your bino harness. I’ve a buddy that opts to hold a G29 over the full-sized G20 when guiding hunters within the mountains of Alaska, and he’s sucessfully fended off at the very least one shut, fast-charging grizzly bear with it.
Taylor’s & Co. 1911 A1 FS Tactical II
Taylor’s & Co. 1911 A1 FS Tactical II
Key Options
- Caliber: 10mm Auto
- Capability: 8+1 rounds
- Barrel: 5 inches
- Body: Parkerized Metal
- Optics Compatibility: Iron sights solely
- Value: $720
Together with polymer pistols, the sector of excellent 1911 pistols chambered in 10mm Auto has grown in recent times. Excessive-end 1911’s aren’t low cost, and plenty of high quality ones in 10mm will price nicely over $1,000. A few of these are nonetheless finicky. Taylor’s & Co. has been importing some price range 1911 pistols which have impressed us—particularly in our 2023 1911 test. I’ve had the prospect to shoot their 10mm M1911 A1 FS Tactical II mannequin, and have been happy with its efficiency.
I haven’t had a single malfunction with the pistol but, and its primary characteristic set is consistent with the price range value. It has Wilson Fight-style grips, a magwell, ambidextrous safeties, a Novak-style adjustable rear sight, and a bull-profile barrel. The set off is fairly good and the end is healthier than different 1911 imports on this value vary. Mine handles a wide range of bear protection masses nicely, and for somebody who’s a 1911 die-hard, this can be a strong possibility.
Sig Sauer P320 XTen
Sig Sauer P320 XTen
Key Options
- Caliber: 10mm Auto
- Capability: 15+1
- Barrel: 5 inches
- Body: Polymer
- Optics Compatibility: Optic minimize, Romeo 2/Trijicon RMR sample
- Value: $799
Selection is an efficient factor in terms of bear protection handguns, and Sig Sauer’s new P320 XTen is a welcome addition to the market of 10mm handguns. The P320 collection options largely 9mm fashions, and has turn into an enormous winner for Sig. That is partly due to its versatility. The XTen is an up-sized model that brings the P320 traits that many shooters like.
The XTen matches the capability of hottest 10mm bear protection pistols and comes with two 15-round metal magazines. The polymer body is barely bigger than the full-size 9mm X-frames however options the identical comfy ergonomics and grip texture. It has a flat set off shoe and no set off security. Mounting a light-weight in your bear protection handgun is a big plus, and the XTen has an extended 5-slot accent rail. The 5-inch barrel offers a slight increase in velocity and an extended sight radius than most different polymer 10mm’s.
I’m within the strategy of testing and reviewing an XTen now, and I’m liking it. I’ve discovered it to be very comfy and manageable to shoot. I presently carry a P320 9mm day by day, and the similar ergonomics and grip angle translate very nicely throughout each weapons. I haven’t encountered any reliability points thus far, and it’s reminding me why I just like the P320 platform.
Learn our full evaluation of the Sig Sauer P320 X-Ten.
Colt Python 3-inch
Key Options
- Caliber: .357 Magnum
- Capability: 6
- Barrel: 3 inches (longer barrels obtainable)
- Body: Polished stainless-steel
- Optics Compatibility: Iron sights solely
- Value: $1,499
Regardless of the up to date recognition and perceived benefits of semi-autos as the perfect bear protection handguns, wheel weapons nonetheless see loads of use within the discipline. Many of us nonetheless think about them the one dependable possibility. Though not massive by magnum revolver requirements, the .357 Magnum has lengthy been used right here in Alaska as a bear protection cartridge and was championed by long-time Fairbanks bear protection class teacher Joe Nava. With heavy hard-cast loads, it penetrates deep and is similar to the 10mm Auto. I as soon as needed to shoot a “lifeless” black bear with a .357 when he stood up lower than 5 yards away, and I’ll say that the efficiency was loads sufficient.
There are various nice choices for .357 Magnum revolvers—the Ruger GP100 for instance—however my decide can be the Colt Python in a 3- or 4-inch configuration. I reviewed the 3-inch mannequin earlier this yr and was smitten. You possibly can read that review here. This six-shooter seems to be incredible, but in addition performs. The brand new Colt Python fashions are constructed to be as near the unique designs as potential, with some added mass within the upper-rear portion of the body for added power.
The match on the brand new Colt Python 3-inch is tight, and operation is butter-smooth. You’ll lose a contact of velocity on the 3-inch barrel mannequin, however I consider the comfort of carry to be value it. It rides properly in a chest holster and may be very controllable throughout double-action taking pictures.
Smith & Wesson Model 629
Smith & Wesson Mannequin 629
Key Options
- Caliber: .44 Magnum
- Capability: 6
- Barrel: 6 inches
- Body: Polished stainless-steel
- Optics Compatibility: Iron sights solely
- Value: $1,100
For large bear protection handguns, the Smith & Wesson 629 is tough to beat. Many laud the .44 Magnum as actual bear medication, and it’s bought loads of energy for a bear protection handgun—so long as you keep in mind that it’s nonetheless not a rifle.
The 629 is a wonderful revolver. Its stainless-steel construct is made to be subjected to the weather frequent in bear nation. The 4-inch and 5-inch fashions are 9.5 and 10.5 inches in total size respectively, they usually have stability of barrel size and dealing with for a .44. It’s a fairly comfy revolver to shoot and holds 6 rounds of .44 Magnum or .44 Particular. The rubberized grip is good for moist situations and makes sharp recoil extra tolerable.
When you’re prepared to place within the follow, heavy .44 Magnum masses can provide you an edge in penetration over less-powerful cartridges just like the 10mm, however you’ve solely bought 6 pictures, so make them depend. The 4-inch Mannequin 629 will weigh about 4 kilos loaded, so ensure you have a snug technique to carry it. Though the Mannequin 329 PD is way lighter (and a very good revolver too), the recoil is completely punishing, and also you’ll be laborious pressed to get something on-target after the primary shot. The Mannequin 629 is a greater stability of ease-of-carry and recoil manageability.
Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan
Ruger Tremendous Redhawk Alaskan
Key Options
- Caliber: .44 Magnum
- Capability: 6
- Barrel: 2.5 inches
- Body: Polished stainless-steel
- Optics Compatibility: Iron sights solely
- Value: $1,200
When you’re in search of robust and reliable, Ruger’s Tremendous Redhawk revolvers are place to begin. These double-action massive bore revolvers have lengthy been widespread in Alaska, and I carried one chambered in .480 Ruger with a 7.5-inch barrel till I bought uninterested in lugging the factor round. The Tremendous Redhawk Alaskan is actually a chopped-down 2.5-inch barreled model. That makes it considerably extra handy to hold than the full-size mannequin.
Though there are a couple of greater revolver cartridges on the market, I think about the .454 Casull to be high finish alternative for a bear protection handgun. With uncommon exception, something greater is solely a novelty. The .454 is difficult sufficient to shoot nicely, and even the larger cartridges nonetheless aren’t as much as the extent of a rifle. Like .44 Magazine/.44 Particular, you possibly can follow with .45 Colt cartridges, and save the recent (and costly) stuff for the sector. Simply make sure you dangle on whenever you contact it off.
Though you sacrifice important velocity by blowing portion of your powder out the tip of that quick 2.5-inch barrel, the benefit of carry is what makes this revolver sensible. Revolvers that get left within the truck or within the cabin when you’re doing chores are not any good. The Tremendous Redhawk Alaskan is among the most carry-friendly big-bore revolvers. Its rubbery grip makes it fairly rattling tolerable to shoot too.
Learn Subsequent: Types of Pistols, a Beginner’s Guide
Ultimate Ideas on the Finest Bear Protection Handguns
There is no such thing as a single finest bear protection handgun for everybody. It’s essential to know that even the perfect or strongest handgun falls nicely in need of an enormous rifle’s energy. A bear assault is assured to be a dynamic encounter with innumerable variables, like how fast the bear can run and how much terrain you’re on.
What’s sure is that if you wish to have an actual probability to cease a bear assault with a handgun, it’s essential to be carrying it—even whenever you don’t anticipate an encounter. It’s essential carry it in order that it may be drawn shortly and simply. One other certainty is that you simply want to have the ability to draw and shoot precisely. Selecting a handgun that you simply’re comfy and proficient with is healthier than simply chasing energy. Lastly, prepare along with your bear protection handgun like your life relies on it, as a result of it’d.
