Bear spray or pistol while elk hunting?

[antler addict]

This will be my first year heading out west for archery elk. Do most people carry a pistol or bear spray for bear protection while hunting? I'll be in western CO. Thanks for any input.


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[ILbowhntr]

Packed a .44 for a couple years then ditched it for spray. Weighs half as much and don't have to be a great shot under pressure.

 

[wapiti_will]

Spent the last decade hunting western Colorado and every time I run into a bear, they're running hard in the opposite direction.  I do carry a sidearm, but bears are the least of my worries.  I carry it more for cats, 2 legged idiots, warning/distress signal, etc. 

 

[Ramaeker]

I agree bear spray is a lot lighter and you don't have to be a good shot.  I carry bear spray in Montana and we've got Grizzlies to deal with.

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[backcountry_hunter]

I carry spray when I'm in brown bear country and a small 9mm or 380 when I'm hunting outside of brown bear country..... for the pale skinned, walking-upright animals.....


In Western Colorado I wouldn't carry anything for bears.

 

[blakeb21]

I live in Colorado and this past summer I have come across a bunch of bears.  One sow advanced towards me and my dog even after my dog barked at her and her cubs and the cubs had already ran away. I was very reassured in having a sidearm. I currently care a 40S&W with FMJ'S when in the woods, but plan on upgrading to 10 mm as soon as funds permit.  The big problem with spray is if the wind is wrong you may end up with a face full of it.  Having been sprayed with pepper spay without my contacts in and  I can say without a doubt I don't ever want the experience again and I surely don't want it when  bear is anywhere near me.  It is a rare to be attacked by a bear or Mt. Lion, but I like to be prepared for the worst.

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[ILbowhntr]

I've gotten blow back from spray when I used it on a pit bull, was not fun. A .40, 9mm or 10mm is great for 2 legged scum, but don't think it'd be much good on a mad sow at 20'.

 

[antler addict]

Thanks for the info guys.


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[Wyo67]

Guess I'll be the first to admit I don't carry anything.  No griz where we are at though. 

 

[idelkslayer]

I've never felt the need for either.  I often hunt and camp in grizzly country.