statistics don't really put my mind at ease when it comes to cats. my concern is because of the amount of time i spend hiking in the dark and the uncertainty of a cat's intentions. i know several guys that have had cats follow them around (probably just curiosity), and i just don't know if i could easily understand their intentions. so I want to be able to scare them off (if they don't run, then i know what they are thinking :-\ ). when i think of a black bear encounter i feel my decision is simpler. if a black bear is following me or sees me and doesn't run, then they're a threat and need to be treated as such. not sure my reasoning is perfectly sound, but it's just what i'm thinking when i'm in the woods.
I responded to this in 2018. Since then I’ve bought a G20 and a few years ago, i quite packing it.
After this year in Colorado and all the cats, I won’t leave home without it.
Ruger .45 Long colt with heavy grains loads - typically three hallow points and three bear loads. I also carry bear spray though, Be Prepared... In my opinion it doesn't do any good to be worried about the predators as the data shows that usually, when people get into trouble it isn't lions tigers or bears, its dehydration, poor navigation or other injuries... Still, I like to carry a pistol as it is a heck of a lot easier to operate than my bow, especially around camp at night, little insurance policy. If you are paying attention when hiking, keeping a clean camp and show animals the respect/distance they need, everything will be fine. On the flip side, if a Griz with a bad attitude wants to have at you... might just be your time
