Exact same conclusion I came to: I feel vindicated lol. I’m in black bear country and almost exclusively solo hike. Years ago I would accidentally roll up on bears constantly - often with cubs. I have found that clapping loudly when I’m in any kind of dense forrest or undergrowth has basically kept me from seeing any bears. Probably the best bear defense ever - make a lot of noise so you don’t accidentally surprise a bear.
@miscellania4263
3 жыл бұрын
I definitely feel pretty much all animals of the forest DON’T want to be around humans if they don’t have to.
@Raevenswood
3 жыл бұрын
yep I bet using this method you have scared off more bears that you never even saw than you would care to know about. Worst case you come around the corner but your presence was already known and the bear isn't totally caught off guard. As far as I understand the two worst scenarios are startling a bear or startling a sow with cubs.
@rick419
2 жыл бұрын
I want to see wild animals when I walk so I walk quietly and stay aware. I have spent decades hiking in the woods as a forester in bear country and really, bears aren't that dangerous. People die every day in cars but you still drive don't you?
@jeffrey9135
2 жыл бұрын
@@rick419 I wear a seatbelt. And my ancient ancestors didn’t evolve to fear car rides like they did bears. The fear is real whether the threat is or not and fear can affect anyone’s enjoyment of anything. You are right; It’s statistically unlikely I’ll ever have a problem but I’ll do what I can to avoid the problem. Just like I wear a seatbelt.
@rick419
2 жыл бұрын
@@jeffrey9135 If the fatality rate of vehicle accidents was one every two years like fatal bear attacks would you still wear a seat belt? I have no fear of bears and I have been near wild bears on numerous occasions.
@interrestrial9815
3 жыл бұрын
What I remember from a wholly unprovoked charge was the speed at which it happened. 40 yards in a blink or two of the eye. I sensed there was something wrong and as a precaution removed the spray from my belt. It was in my hand. I turned towards the suspicion area and saw the bears head focused on me. Snap, here it comes. At 20 yards I started spraying and held the trigger down. At about 10 to 12 feet the charge stopped, but there was no retreat. So I sprayed directly at the bears eyes, that did it. If that cannister had been anywhere but in my hand I might have prevailed, but I would rather not think about it.
@NeoRazor
2 жыл бұрын
You meant 'not prevailed' right?
@patrickday4206
Жыл бұрын
No I think he means might have sprayed it but the bear would have already been on top of him!
@jamesreed7528
3 жыл бұрын
An excellent video. I'm alone most of the time; I carry gun and bear spray. An upland hunting vest with front-access game pocket is perfect for carrying bear spray, having it always accessible.
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you. The vest is an interesting idea.
@ozysjahputera7669
2 жыл бұрын
Agreed. Bear spray is my first choice in favorable weather/wind condition. Otherwise it is a 10mm Glock with proper bear load (200 grain hardcast or 140 grain extreme penetrator, both from Underwood).
@sonjastanchina7469
3 жыл бұрын
Excellent info and advice. Me....I am 100% going to take BOTH.
@mxbishop
2 жыл бұрын
Excellent video. Take both - if one can manage the added weight. Another essential weapon to consider taking into the woods is a working brain. That is, one should maintain a high degree of situational awareness when among bears, and other wild animals. To the bear, a human could be a curiousity, a possible food source, or a threat. You don't know how the bear will behave when it sees you. Maybe all that is needed is having the presence of mind to withdraw slowly, and without panic. If that doesn't work, you still have 2 options left. There are a bunch of videos on KZitem comparing firearms to bear spray - some of them even amusing - but I like this one because it is serious, thorough, and helpful. Thanks for posting.
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@captainklr6508
2 жыл бұрын
Great brief.I’ve studied this for years and you covered every aspect perfectly..
@Vaeuca
2 жыл бұрын
I'm from a country with a large wild elephants population. People who have encountered elephants while hiking says it's quite surprising how a huge animal like that can sneak up on you. This is why I'm actually but freaked up about hiking in Sierras. No bear encounters yet. Hope it stays the same :D
@pkarowic
2 жыл бұрын
This was a fair assessment of both sides, spray and firearms. I agreed that in some situations one method can be better than the other. I hike in both Black and Grizzly bear country but I have never seen a grizzly yet, but I have seen a few Black bears which I did have one encounter with a Black bear. The encounter went down just as I was trained. I stopped, started talking to the bear and slowly started to back off, but did not run as we were trained not to. The bear moved off and I went in the opposite direction. I did have my bear spray but never needed to take it out the holster. I know it's hard but being calm is really the best way to handle these types of stituations. I have been through many training session using Bear spray and you hit a lot of the same points that we were informed about, in the area of Bear spray. I agree with some of the comments that if you make some noise, that bear will hear you and pretty much stay away from you. Thanks for the video. It's alway good to share information like this. Take care.
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the feedback! I will note that I had several black bear encounters in Olympic National Park during a trip and noise did nothing to scare off the bears off. They were not at all concerned about being in the vicinity of people.
@hankgoresich6836
2 жыл бұрын
Level-headed, objective, practical guide to using bear spray. Thank you, very helpful.
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@miscellania4263
3 жыл бұрын
If I do run into an aggressive bear with cubs, I will definitely refer to the bear spray which has several studies backing up it’s efficacy in exactly what you described where your fine motor skills can fail you. Obviously weather conditions can make it incredibly weak or blow it back at you unfortunately. Other than that, I carry a small a firearm in my backpack just in case I do run into anything outside of that, but have never (and hopefully never will) had to use it
@USMC6976
2 жыл бұрын
If it is in your backpack, you will never get a chance to use it if the bear spray fails you.
@jerrymcdonald6832
2 жыл бұрын
I have watched a lot of bear and bear spray videos, and some guns too. I could have condensed all of those into this one presentation right here.. Really good objective pro and con approach with some things I never seemed to have stopped and thought about (flying.... for example). Thanks Mister!
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
I appreciate that, thank you!
@wsteele5864
5 ай бұрын
Terrific video, excellent points all along, from someone who hikes 7-10 miles in the mountains/woods almost every day. Also, small format air horn is also a nice to have when you are stymied and want it to move along without a bluff charge encounter (or worse).
@BacktotheOutdoors
5 ай бұрын
Thank you!
@driver2909
3 жыл бұрын
Whenever iam in bear country I bring my friend who is in a wheelchair.
@rcarlson8203
Жыл бұрын
Best defense is a slow tm8
@robphillips8351
Жыл бұрын
I have my sister wear pork chops and any cut of beef... Work's like a charm..
@harrytraction1380
Жыл бұрын
😂😂😂😂😂
@bluefungi
Жыл бұрын
Next thing ya know he brings some buckshot and says what now? 😂
@robphillips8351
Жыл бұрын
@@bluefungi i Wonder if a .50 Barrett would calm the Ole bear down?? .🤔 Probably have a hard time putting the pieces of that puzzle together? 🤔 for that matter probably have difficult time finding Big enough pieces of the bear back together to ask him if his mood got any better 😂
@snowobarder27
Жыл бұрын
I live on the NC and TN boarder near the smokies. My friends and I do a lot back country camping and fly fishing. We're always in bear country and seen a lot of bears. We only had 2 accounts of bad encounter with bears both of them was scary as shit and happen within 50 yards. My friends and I both carry spray and gun. We have the spray for first line of defense and the gun for life saving measures
@LaurenceDay-d2p
6 ай бұрын
Practical plan. Firearm is the last resort I would use - but I will use it if I have to. Better to fire a shot than to spend 4 weeks in the hospital.
@callaseter4811
Жыл бұрын
Very well done sir ! I agree wholeheartedly. Both are optimal. The firearm is a much better solution for the two legged predators as you mentioned. And they’re the main reason I don’t carry a revolver in 44 mag unless it’s back up for a 10mm semi auto. The revolver doesn’t carry enough ammo capacity for the packs of 2 legged vermin . Just my 2 cents . Stay safe out there. 🙏💕
@AngelRivera-wp9bg
3 жыл бұрын
Three things I carry in Alaska a 1911 hi cap 17 round double stack 10 mm, bear spray minimal rated 8 second spray 30 feet cloud, and a juicy raw steak in case nothing else works.
@papabrucehikingandoutdoora3409
3 жыл бұрын
I carry spray in bear country but every time I have run into a bear a loud shout has them running. To me weight is the biggest problem in carrying a gun. Gun or spray. Both need training. Practice spray canisters are available I like your approach and helpful video
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@JustPeaceLoveAndKindness
3 жыл бұрын
Bear spray is also more stealthy than a gun, in the field or near population to give you some time to extract yourself from an unplanned confrontation.
@mymymy9452
4 ай бұрын
*- Someone told me Bears- spray is hot sauce for bears.*
@whynotthinkwhynot-
2 жыл бұрын
I agree, and carry both. I also make sure that both are accessible. I haven’t gone to places where I can’t carry a firearm yet. I’m surprised you didn’t mention bear spray holsters for pants belts, or suggest using old military radio holsters for example. In fact, I think some mil-surp magazine pouches might work for bear spray. I do have one thing to add for bear defense with firearms. Bears are very fast. An outfitter had a video online discussing bear attacks, and he said that- although it is counter intuitive- you must train yourself to crouch to shoot at a charging bear. Most hunters, he said, miss when shooting at a bear because the bear moves so fast towards them. You will likely only get one shot, he said, so crouch to be sure that you hit the bear. The same goes for bear spray, you did mention this. Spray the ground in front of the bear if it is charging you. I do not know if this will be helpful or not- like I said I have only seen one bear from a distance. I carry a lot of cayenne pepper with me for many reasons like it is great on cuts and facilitates healing without scars. I use it after using neosporin. Yes it hurts- man or woman up! Anyway. I routinely sprinkle cayenne around my tent to ward off curious critters. If a bear were curious, it would sniff first, and that could discourage it from sticking around. It shouldn’t take much. This should work against any curious predator- unless it’s raining. That is all. Enjoy the outdoors smartly!
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the insightful comment. As far as holsters for spray, I use the Mystery Ranch bear spray holster.
@jamesdickey9747
2 жыл бұрын
As someone who lives in Alaska, my biggest con against carrying a firearm is that an effective Brown-bear gun is way heavier than I want to be carrying. A truly effective bear gun in Alaska is going to be a high power rifle or shotgun, which (as you point out for bear spray), can't be slung on your back - it needs to be in your hand. When I'm hiking in the back country, I just don't want to be lugging that around. As for hand guns, for it to be an effective Brown bear gun, it needs to be a large, heavy hogs-leg. Unless I'm specifically hunting, I'd much rather carry bear spray. I do see people carrying 9mm pistols purportedly for bear protection, and I frankly think they are a false sense of security more likely to annoy the bear than to kill it. Another factor that very few people talk about is that if you kill a bear in Alaska in defense of life or property (which is perfectly legal in Alaska, and no one will give you blowback about that), that bear carcass is the property of the State of Alaska, and you are legally REQUIRED to salvage the skull and hide, pack it out, and turn it in to the Department of Fish and Game. I'd rather take my chances with the bear spray than deal with that.
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Always great to hear from people in brown/grizzly territory. Thanks for your insight.
@infogunvault6920
Жыл бұрын
@@BacktotheOutdoors I would also have mentioned the fact that if you can't see more than 50 yards due to brush, you should probably have your gun or bear spray in your hand and ready. If the bear can't see you it'll be surprised and may charge obviously.
@infogunvault6920
Жыл бұрын
A very large handgun is not required for effective bear defense. What you do need is a deep penetrating bullet, preferably in a handgun that you can shoot fast and accurately. Of 7 cases that 9mms were used against attacking bears, all 7 successfully stopped the bear attack. That doesn't mean that 9mm is the best caliber for bear defense (.357 sig or 10mm would be better) it just means that 9mm is capable. Also, the first thing anyone should mention about bear defense guns is that you need to have deep-penetrating bullets, like hard cast lead.
@nicholasavasthi9879
Жыл бұрын
@@infogunvault6920 What kinds of bears? Shooting a black bear is very different from a brown or grizzly.
@infogunvault6920
Жыл бұрын
@@nicholasavasthi9879 Off the top of my head, I believe it was both black and brown. kzitem.info/news/bejne/yqSJ26OHkHerl44 This is my video about handguns calibers for bear defense. I'm also working on a new bear defense video, where I'll mention new information about handgun calibers and their penetration. Phil Shoemaker shot a grizzly in self defense with a small 9mm handgun, one of the bullets passed through one side of the back and was stopped just by the skin on the opposite side. (He used +P 9mm)
@georgecathey2268
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the video. One strong benefit of bear spray, in my opinion, is that you can use it safely on a bear when it is actively attacking a person. With a gun you seriously risk shooting the person by mistake. One benefit of firearm is that you can use it if you are in a tent and the bear is coming inside. I had this thought one night when a black bear was walking around my tent for several hours ripping up logs to eat grubs. Bear spray would still work in a tent, but then you completely incapacitate yourself, too.
@evanwindom3265
Жыл бұрын
Winner. Great point.
@thorenjohn
Жыл бұрын
Thank you for that excellent, sober and informative video. The comments section is a gold-mine, too, we are all well-served.
@BacktotheOutdoors
Жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@KevinOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Great video, very informative and level headed. I see you haven't published a video in the last 10 months. As a fellow KZitemr and 'bear video guy' I encourage you to get back in the game. All the best!
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you! Actually I have a video uploading as we speak. I’ll be uploading more videos this summer - doing the west rim trail in Zion in May. I plan to film that entire trip.
@KevinOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
@@BacktotheOutdoors Well then you have a new sub! What I like the most is the logic and the refrain from extreme view points, we need more of that in this world.
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
@@KevinOutdoors thanks, Kevin. The video I just uploaded won’t be helpful unless you happen to hike with a chest rig, but more content is coming soon. Definitely going to check out your channel.
@MichaelRutter-y8r
9 ай бұрын
Wow! I appreciate the up front and honest approach-the pros and cons of spray vs gun for bear defense told like it is! I just subscribed. I've photographed black and big bears for 40 years. I'm outdoors at least two-three months a year on mostly bear-related activities. In fact, I spent the last four weeks filming grizzly in the Tetons. You've nailed it. I use both spray and often carry a sidearm. My only addendum to your really-fine video is: 1. "Spray a bit lower" than you might think ... since it's easy to spray too high (better yet, buy an inert can of your favorite bear spray and practice, Counter Assault sells it); when deploying the spray, some folks also feel it "rides up.") 2. Use the handgun you shoot "really well"; a 9mm you can "call shots" with will serve your needs better than a .44 or .454 you're not comfortable shooting; in bear defense, bullet construction is everything-go with hard cast not home defense rounds; I carry a small .357 with 180 gr. Buffalo Bore cast bullets because I'm shaving ounces.
@BacktotheOutdoors
9 ай бұрын
Thank you! Agreed on the caliber choice. I carry a 10mm partly because it’s easier to shoot than large caliber revolvers.
@markcrowell3977
7 ай бұрын
Great video. Great to the point communication skills. Thank you. Keep up the good work.
@samiharb2643
4 ай бұрын
Yes Both! More options are 'always' better than less. Unless you don't know what you're doing with either one, of course. Both options strengths make up for they're individual weaknesses, you just have to devote time & money to training with both gun & spray in as many simulated scenarios as you can such as on & off trail, in & out of camp/tent, ideal & less than ideal weather conditions, day & night, etc, etc. That's what you could do with a spray can after a trip if you've flown instead of selling, giving or throwing it away before you leave is to devise a new training scenario to just use the whole thing. Only downside is pack weight, time, money as you say 👌🏽
@armyretired28
3 жыл бұрын
Sleeping in your tent and a bear attacks bear spray inside your tent will do nothing to a bear, but it will make for some spicy treat with your tender body for him to eat! Carry a firearm!
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
Yep, another example of a situation where a firearm is better.
@scottgorman7166
3 жыл бұрын
Great video....covered a plethora of scenarios. I am like you and carry all times where legal. In the woods when hiking both items are on my person. Years of trekking and have to say never used either. A bell hooked to something moving on you does help alert the big furry monster lurking out there. Enjoy the outdoors its divine.
@Bacnow
3 жыл бұрын
This is great advice
@49Roadmaster
2 жыл бұрын
Best unbiased video on this subject out there. Some people really suffer from cognitive dissonance on this subject.
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@alexdenton6586
Жыл бұрын
I have been in the police force for a few years and I think bear spray is the best option when possible, guns should be a last resort when it is impossible to use anything else It's made for bears so it's also effective against humans, and it's enough to put someone out of action most of the time to give you time to flee or call the police. Because some people in the comments seem to forget that killing someone even in a self defense situation can get you in very big trouble with the law unless you can prove without a doubt and that you used the appropriate force to defend yourself I'm have nothing against using and carrying a gun I'm just saying think twice before you pull a gun on anything or anyone I know the video is directed at a bear attacks , but I've expanded my response to Self Defense Against Anything
@patrickday4206
Жыл бұрын
I've hiked many years without bear spray or guns even in grizzly bear country alone being smart being loud enough often enough and being aware of what to do makes a big difference! I now go with protection either bear spray or a gun because at 44 I'm not as capable as when I was 27 eyesight hearing endurance aren't like when younger. Even younger when required I've taken bear spray some back country permits require this! The bad part is you don't get to see much wildlife doing it property! I do like hiking quietly hiking upwind because you are more likely to see wildlife but it is riskier I've had coyotes pop out on the trail feet from me can scare the crap out of you but it's cool!
@petermendoza1170
3 жыл бұрын
That was a great video. Thank you
@johnwelsman2625
Жыл бұрын
Great presentation. Logical and objective.
@billbbobby2889
Жыл бұрын
Thank You for the laser accurate practical advice.
@Christian-xd3vg
3 жыл бұрын
This video is easy to watch because it is refreshingly different from most others of the subject matter made by big-headed brawlers, outdoorsy carnival barkers, and macho-of-all-cost gun aficionados. Your points are worthwhile considering over the before mentioned reject as your arguments are based on honesty, self-awareness, facts, rationale, and common sense. When going into a bear- or backcountry area I for one would - and do - choose anti-bear spray as a tool for the first defense line, but also carry a sidearm open or concealed depending on the law, the place, and circumstance for possible backup. While deploying the anti-bear spray as a proven good solution for most human-bear encounters (which also may apply for other predatory animals like coyotes, big cats, wild pigs, feral dogs, or even deer), a proper handgun loaded with adequate ammunition provides some special peace of mind on a hike and in the camp.
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the kind words!
@callaseter4811
Жыл бұрын
And the firearm is better for the two legged predators. Especially a pack of them . The main reason I don’t care a revolver unless it’s back up to semi in 10mm.
@Marco-yi4bl
9 ай бұрын
If legal, you can carry both. Anyway, in any potentially dangerous situation, the best advice is: Bring two buddies. Groups can look after each other, are less likely to get attacked and can multiply force on an attacker.
@oleopathic
3 жыл бұрын
Very, very good video. Subscribed. This man knows his stuff. Please do a video on firearms for bear defence: pistol and long guns.
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you! I’m not an expert on the long gun aspect, but people who are seem to favor the 12 gauge slug or the .45/70. I have another video called “guns and backpacking” and I illustrate some methods of pistol carry in the backcountry.
@AppalachianDualSport
Жыл бұрын
Great video. I've seen this topic come up a lot in my circles recently and have repeatedly made the same points that you do. My understanding is that bear spray is statistically more successful at deterring bear attacks than handguns are, which is probably a result of your point that most people do not have the training to use a handgun effectively against a bear. Another consideration in favor of bear spray is that bears often bluff, charging a person and then turning away without actually attacking. While we obviously can't ever rely on the fact that a charging bear is bluffing and isn't actually going to harm us, the fact is it would be unfortunate to shoot a bear that was just doing bear things and didn't actually intend to harm you, when bear spray would likely have worked.
@pklemets
3 жыл бұрын
Check your information on firearms in national parks or wilderness. In bear country the rangers told us we not only should carry but if under attack we could use the firearm.
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
National Parks and National Forests have different regulations. www.nps.gov/articles/firearms-in-national-parks.htm As you can see in the link above, the use of firearms in National Parks is prohibited. As I alluded to in the video, it is unlikely you would face any penalties if you could prove your life was in danger and you had no other choice, but that’s going to be difficult to prove in many circumstances.
@williamschramm2761
Жыл бұрын
I am in agreement with every you presented in your video!! Especially never be alone. The only question I have is that you stated "carry both , bear spray and a firearm" If you are suddenly charged by a bear, you have a split second decision to decide what should you use, bear spray or a firearm. That is a hard decision to make in that situation. That is why you never hike alone in bear country because you have back up.
@BacktotheOutdoors
Жыл бұрын
Spray would be my first option assuming there’s no wind storm.
@mr.perfect5303
3 жыл бұрын
Great video and great recommendations. 👍
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
Glad you enjoyed it.
@titter3648
3 жыл бұрын
The statistics say that bear spray is way more effective than firearms in a bear attack. I don't want to search for it now, but i think it was like 90% or bear attacks was deterred when bear spray was used, while only 60% of bear attacks was deterred when a firearm was used. The one advantage with a firearm is that you can use it to scare away the bear at a distance with the loud sound of a shot, while if you don't have a firearm you just have your voice to try to scare away a bear at a distance.
@ASTHECROWFLIESHIKING
3 жыл бұрын
Great video! Good information on this topic. I have thought of this very topic many times. New follower here. I have carried one or the other on various hikes. Well done. Crow✌️
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks man!
@jbartell9756
Жыл бұрын
Excellent video great information.
@sharpsbattle
Жыл бұрын
I used to work in the bush northern Canada. We used to wear “bear bells” which we called diner bells. 😂 I did get bluff charged once. In the video, he is correct about it being high stress. It happens so fast, it is very difficult to react that fast. You see the bear 30 feet away, in 2 seconds he has closed the gap. It’s scary.
@butchcassidy3562
Жыл бұрын
Great brief. Spot on!
@anorthosite
10 ай бұрын
I previously watched a video on this topic by shastabubba adventures. He made some interesting points on the limited/delayed effectiveness a shot would likely have against a charging brown bear: In particular, that a head shot would have to be Very precise to penetrate the brain, at the very time/situation when precision shooting would be most problematic; and that a body shot would likely not be instantly (or even quickly) lethal, when seconds count. [He also made the case that a good preventative against a bad bear encounter would be to hike Without Dogs. Period.] Then I watched this video, which brought home the logistics of getting bear spray to where you are traveling. I hiked in the Tetons with bear spray (purchased in Jackson), but was able to hand it off to a hiking friend after driving back to Utah, before flying home ("rent" payment for sleeping on her couch). The issue of Wind conditions was also more emphasized in this video, though I wonder if a bear charge toward a hiker would be more likely to be upwind (where the bear could smell you) than downwind (negating spray effectiveness). But then again a charge could just as likely be triggered by sound or visual contact In any case, I think both your respective videos were very balanced and informative. Thanks.
@BacktotheOutdoors
9 ай бұрын
Thank you!
@noep99
2 жыл бұрын
Good Video, Thanks,
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Glad you liked it!
@KA-tu2em
3 жыл бұрын
Btw bead spray hurts like hell. I’ve been sprayed for less than a second. I vomited because I couldn’t breathe
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
I definitely wouldn’t want to get anywhere near a cloud of it, that’s for sure.
@rebelbaron7003
3 жыл бұрын
The information on carrying firearms in National Forests is partially incorrect. I hunted elk in Montana,Idaho,and Wyoming. I asked this question and was told by my outfitters and the rangers encountered that a firearm in grizzly country is strongly recommended and it's understood by all what this means. Since grizzly bears have been re-introduced back into the areas where they were expunged from for years, by the Fruit Loops liberal Democrats,confrontations between hunters,hikers,fishermen,kayakers and bears have increased demonstrably. In some wilderness areas,I'm told,grizzly bears now hone in on rifle shots as they know during the fall a potential meal is on the ground. There have been horrific stories of grizzly bears charging hunters as they field dress deer,moose,or elk. Once you open up that carcass you can bet yer sweet ass if a bear is around he's coming to pay a visit.
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
National Parks and National Forests have different regulations. www.nps.gov/articles/firearms-in-national-parks.htm As you can see in the link above, the use of firearms in National Parks is prohibited, but as I alluded to in the video, it is unlikely you would face any penalties if you could prove your life was in danger and you had no other choice, but that’s going to be difficult to prove in many circumstances.
@contention100
Жыл бұрын
I have the same Frontiersman spray and a .12 gauge and carry slugs in Bear country. Yes, it depends where you are, the weather and the time you have to react without panicking. I'll be hunting in Bear country in a few weeks but I'm hunting with a slug gun for Mule deer so I feel as prepared as I can be. A 300 grain Sabot slug will drop a black bear no problem.
@jackychandler8594
Жыл бұрын
I've often wondered if using a compressed air horn in a can , which is extremely loud would also be a deterant. I would think it could be used before a bear is charging. If clapping, and bells on trecking sticks scare bears, I would think an air horn would send him into the next county.
@BacktotheOutdoors
Жыл бұрын
Good comment. “Bear bangers” and air horns are somewhat common methods from what I’ve seen, but not discussed as often as bear spray. Would still need the spray either way, though.
@jackychandler8594
Жыл бұрын
@@BacktotheOutdoors I agree 100% with taking spray. And the guy who commented about turning over the bear to Alaska game officials is correct. I'm from Mississippi. I had a friend move his family into the Alaska wilderness for 20 yrs. He killed a grizzly in self defense. He contacted game officials, and they flew into his cabin. They flew his wife to Anchorage to do the paperwork while he processed the bear. They allowed him to keep the meat, but took everything else.
@othoapproto9603
2 жыл бұрын
It's not the kind of video to "enjoy". It's simply just an important message you need to hear. OMG, does the current bear spray can, trigger and holster need a redesign.
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Mystery Ranch makes a good bear spray holster. It’s what I use.
@mikeogden5256
Жыл бұрын
Both for different reasons and circumstances 😊
@Joemensa
3 жыл бұрын
Where you live may play an important role in your decision whether to carry a firearm or bear spay when in the back country. I’m from the Soviet Socialist Republic of Massachusetts where it is extremely difficult (comparatively speaking) to get a license to carry....has an enormous number of confusing and conflicting statutes and regulations regarding gun ownership, storage, conveyance and use...including not one, but two separate, distinct and extremely limiting lists, one from the Attorney General and a second from the Captain of the State Police, that often differ with respect to the guns you are permitted to purchase and own, all of which have strict limits on magazine size. On the flip side, the liberals insist that if attacked, you spray yourself from head to toe with the bear spray hoping that the severe indigestion the bear gets after eating you will deter future attacks on humans.
@abyields7831
2 жыл бұрын
Excellent video, moto camping affords me to carry a little more weight, thanks again for this excellent video!
@abrin5508
Жыл бұрын
Nicely balanced - I don't carry and have the bear spray. I'm into light backpacking usually in black bear country so its risk analysis - of course I'd prefer a rifle if it weighed 8 ounces. TBH never used the bear spray but have used the tiny boat horn (just a few ounces and makes a huge noise) more than a few times and at least gets them to run off at distance.
@USMC6976
3 жыл бұрын
Two books I think are worth reading: "Fighting for Your Life" by Tom Hron and "4 Seconds to Impact" by Bruce Buckshot Hemming. The first focuses on bear attacks, the second on predators in the wild. Your life vs pack-weight. Yeah, that's a great way to prioritize you life. I have come to the conclusion, if you don't carry it don't ask to borrow mine. You need a band-aid you better have it. I am all for letting Darwin Award contestants become winners.
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the recommendations, Greg. As far as pack weight, this depends on the threat level and the activity. For example, hiking or hunting on Kodiak island presents a greater threat than hiking in Tennessee. Placing less emphasis on weight makes more sense when the threat level is higher. I would carry a shotgun or rifle and bear spray in Alaska, but would never even consider hiking long miles in black bear country with a rifle or a shotgun for bear defense (unless I were hunting with the rifle, of course).
@rolanddespres2063
Жыл бұрын
Good info keep up the good work thank you r, d,
@BacktotheOutdoors
Жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@RIDDYxMUSICH
Жыл бұрын
I always use both Glock & Bear Mace at the same time.
@hurster
2 жыл бұрын
Why not both?
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
That’s the conclusion I reached at the end of the video.
@jinavl
Жыл бұрын
as a mountain biker , we are more at risk due to us goin 20+ mph..ive seen more bear here in the Appalachians this year than my first 4 yrs combined
@evanwindom3265
Жыл бұрын
At one point, he mentions how a firearm serves the duel function of concealed carry and bear defense. If you're using the same gun for both, you're either packing a huge carry gun, or you're underpowered in the bear woods. If you look at content produced by bear biologists, you'll more often than not hear them recommend spray over guns. An amped-up bear can take several hits from a gun, all of them potentially fatal, and still do a heck of a number on you before it dies. If you hit a bear solidly with spray, you've taken his vision, smell, and breathing away from him and replaced all of them with pain. If you can change his mind and divert his focus, you've won the day. One thing he didn't talk about: Just about anyone in your party can deploy bear spray. Not everyone in your party may be capable of, or comfortable with, using a firearm of sufficient power to stop a bear. I also think most people overestimate their ability to put rounds in vitals on a running target in a high stress situation. With the spray, you start generating the cloud ahead of the bear and let them run into it. Accuracy isn't a big issue. If you buy a can of bear spray at your destination, don't throw it out. USE it. Find a safe place, and practice drawing and deploying it until it's exhausted. THEN throw it out. He's 100% on point about having your tools, whether firearms or spray, immediately at hand. In a stress situation, you might be shocked at how tough it is to pull the can from a holster, especially if it's at your 5:00 position.
@BacktotheOutdoors
Жыл бұрын
Thank you for commenting. To clarify, I did dedicate a section of the video to pointing out that deploying bear spray requires no special skills, unlike effectively using a firearm on a charging bear. I’m not understanding your comment about having too large a carry gun / or being underpowered. Any gun suitable for bear defense is perfectly capable of doubling as protection against humans. Perhaps you thought I was implying that someone could own only one handgun and it would fill both roles well - but that’s not what I was saying. I was simply stating that whatever handgun one carries for bear defense is a better choice for defense against humans than bear spray.
@evanwindom3265
Жыл бұрын
@@BacktotheOutdoors Odd - that's not what I got from your comment at all. Oh, well. No matter.
@arautus
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for this. Subscribed!
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@tonycaine5930
2 жыл бұрын
Bear spray for bears, side arm for the two legged animals. Latter is more dangerous...
@greggtilghman6349
2 жыл бұрын
If you have both, you have options, if you have neither, you have virtually no options. That argument outweighs weight.
@jungleperry
11 ай бұрын
I have a Glock 21 and I want to find a suitable holster for backpacking. I only intended on this gun as a bear defense system and really want to find a way to carry it without offending others on the trail and yet be instantly available since I go way far off trail a lot. Do you have any suggestions for good holsters for backpacking? thinking hip not good, thinking tummy tuck not good either, definitely not the back because got a backpack on it, what about shoulder harness? Could that be a suitable place? reach your chest for your gun if you need it. Your comments about people putting bear spray in their water bottle pockets is in my mind. Of course I already thought about that myself with the spray. I wear the spray holder on my pack's waist belt. I can reach it without looking and already practiced popping off the protected lever without looking. Figured I would put my gun in my backpack and if I need it I spray first, drop my pack if i need my gun and dig for it? doesn't sound great.
@BacktotheOutdoors
11 ай бұрын
I carry my gun in a Hill People Gear kit bag that rides on the chest. It’s perfect. There are cheaper chest carriers out there.
@joet1669
Жыл бұрын
I would not carry bear spray after spending a career in law enforcement starting in the mid 90s when pepper spray was the only non lethal option we on our belt. I promise you every time you deploy spray you will be contaminated at some point in the encounter. So imagine your down wind of a bear, it’s close, you spray, now you can’t see or breath as your being mauled by the bear. Being mauled is bad enough, but to imagine being blind and suffocating at the same time! No thanks!!! For us at the time spray was optional, after the first 5-10 uses everyone pulled it off their belt and put it where it belonged, THE TRASH CAN!!!! That stuff hurts, I fought 3 different individuals at different times covered in spray and its a nightmare I don’t wish on anyone!
@jinavl
Жыл бұрын
im curious if mase would work..bears sense of smell is much better than ours so in theory it would be stronger to them..
@BacktotheOutdoors
Жыл бұрын
Don’t use anything except actual bear spray.
@hanfucolorful9656
Жыл бұрын
The best solution is --------------------------------- DO NOT GO THERE ! STAYING AWAY FROM BEARS.
@davidcaskie6680
2 жыл бұрын
Bear bangers followed by bear spray is what I would use in Canada...
@nayrapepenova9325
4 ай бұрын
Depends where you are in canada. BC has a lot of grizzly bears. I carry bear spray plus a firearm. Either my 338 WM or 375 H&H
@lnproductions3159
6 ай бұрын
February 10, 2010 firearms in National parks were made legal to carry. I carry both. Great video!
@BacktotheOutdoors
6 ай бұрын
That’s a federal statute that is subject to state law. For example, you cannot legally carry a firearm in a California national park unless you have a concealed carry license in CA. The law you referenced has no bearing on this.
@whitenip84
Жыл бұрын
Ive been in the military for 10 years, 2 years in combat operations and even I dont know how i would react if a bear charged at me if I had a firearm 😅
@greggtilghman6349
2 жыл бұрын
Carry the unused can of bear spray to the National Parkway office, do that for others who didn’t bring a can? Up to the ranger to pay it forward tho.
@D-A-1776
2 жыл бұрын
Both are great. I carry both.
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Same here. My wife always carries spray if she’s with me.
@ftdefiance1
Жыл бұрын
Living in the Southwest I worry far more about feral people then animals. Discreet carry
@didgeridoothedeepmechanics
8 ай бұрын
Mate, i dont know if you recognized it but there is a bear lurking behind the bushes outside at your right side (ours left). Please be careful, i think it does not like you making those vids! Stay safe bro :)
@stacywilliams1710
2 жыл бұрын
Thank You
@philipfreeman72
Жыл бұрын
Be very careful shipping guns through Canada . My crate was broken into & all my scopes , bolts , & my 45 were stolen .
@BrutusJones
Жыл бұрын
As a kid going through 11 different schools growing up, I wished I knew about bear spray for self defense to use on all those godamned bullies. Using a gun for that would have got me in big trouble, even though some of those dudes had it coming. It just seems like kids have no fricken rights at all because if an adult assaults you, they can get in big trouble. But if the bullie down the streets beets you up when you're a kid, tough shit. I'm 64 now and I'd fight anybody bear nuckle any time. That's what it did to me.
@peterolbrisch1653
2 жыл бұрын
A flame thrower would work, right? Or would the bear get even more pussed and then you have a bear that's on fire pouncing on you?
@chiefcliff
3 жыл бұрын
I was worried this would be anti-gun... and it was not. Well done.
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@HamidRHariri
2 жыл бұрын
Ideally both if you're comfortable with it.
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Agreed.
@fraudsarentfriends4717
2 жыл бұрын
Another con is that Bear spray has an expiration date.
@brandonharrell2189
3 жыл бұрын
I don't care where I am if a bear is charging I'm putting him down because u don't want a black bear or a grizzly bear to get a hold of u I promise you that plus that bear spray can come back and hit you in the face bear spray is for if they come in your camp but if he's on top of your friend or what ever you need a rifle or a pistol not bear spray they only give that stuff out there because they don't want you to kill the bears but if your life vs his so yeah I don't care if they like guns or not because your life is what matters
@daveduncan2748
2 жыл бұрын
Yep. Carry both. But what caliber? Whatever you are willing to carry. I once ate some homemade bear salami from a guy who took the bear with a .22. One round. Right between the eyes. The bear dropped in its tracks. The sound alone will likely be as effective as bear spray--even if you missed. But even a wounded bear is not likely to stick around and eat you.
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
I carry spray plus a G20 10mm in Montana. Everywhere else it’s spray plus a G19 9mm. I choose hard cast, flat nose rounds from Underwood in 10mm, and Buffalo Bore in 9mm.
@daveduncan2748
2 жыл бұрын
@@BacktotheOutdoors Nice. I have a G20 and a G19C. The "C" is VERY loud. I got a non-C barrel, which I use more often.
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
@@daveduncan2748 nice. I definitely feel more comfortable with the 10mm. I’ve been close to a black bear a few times in Washington with only a Glock 19 (no spray), and it wasn’t a great feeling.
@bluefungi
Жыл бұрын
Bring both if you can people. Practice safety tho. Guns CAN be dangerous. Be safe, be smart. Get a gun license and take classes before carrying and get the proper permits.
@Raevenswood
3 жыл бұрын
Be careful you sound totally sensible. LOL. I'm in the middle on this issue and every time I tell someone that Bear spray is effective they immediately start crying out that I'm a tree hugger. Meanwhile I own guns and have been shooting guns since I was a kid. That said, for me the firearm is the last resort after the bear keeps coming back after being bear sprayed for the very reason that you are talking about here. If you have to shoot the bear you have to demonstrate that you didn't have any other choice especially in CA. Hey another defensive option that no one talks about in these circles is the bear banger. The banger is small enough to fit in a pocket at the ready and it launches a flare ordinance that explodes and makes a loud noice that will scare bears off... that might be a better option as a first resort if the bear isn't already charging. I want to pick some of these up because just based on my research they are apparently effective. Canadians use them a lot. Banger, Bear Spray, firearm in that order.
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
Great info. What are the fire risks with a bear banger - any at all?
@Raevenswood
3 жыл бұрын
@@BacktotheOutdoors of course there are risks if used improperly. You see lots of people demonstrating them on KZitem by aiming toward the (imaginary) threat and then launching it but these things launch about 100-150 feet then they explode like a firework but very controlled. The problem with aiming toward the bear is what if it explodes behind the bear and the bear spooks and runs toward you? The way you are supposed to launch it is with your arms raised over your head and straight up so the noise is coming from your general position and the bear hopefully runs away not toward you. This also keeps the banger high off the ground rather than at a trajectory where it can get stuck in the brush or a tree. Seems to me like there are limitations to all forms of defense out in the woods but the more options the better I say.
@JacobSchmittDeerHuntingSchool
2 жыл бұрын
I seen a comment on another video that really said it all in bear places your not supposed to have a gun. “ I’d rather be judged by 12 then carried by 6.” I just watched a bear attack video earlier and like 6 people was attacked and 3 killed by 1 black bear and there was a bunch of people out in bear country not one person had a gun they was giving first aid to one person and the bear was literally eating a guy 10 feet away. It was a messed up video.
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Always carry both if you can! No downside to having options, except the additional weight.
@americansafarico
2 жыл бұрын
Solid content. New subscriber
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@capturehishonor9292
2 жыл бұрын
Bias? Examine this. As it turns out, bear spray is heavily regulated in favor of the bear. Most modes of transport do not allow bear spray aboard. Few outposts carry it. Frontiersman, 2022's #1 bear spray, has a formulation that features the highest level of capsaicin content "legally permissible" at 2%. But the same pepper spray that is used on humans can contain 10%, and the higher concentration of oleoresin capsicum whereas a bear spray will only contain 1-2% of the same active ingredient. The point is to cause the bear to back off rather than to do any real harm. So, we would rather protect bears than people. We are only 10 - 20% as important as a bear. BTW, I have been attacked by a bear twice. And yes, I was in the military, skilled in the use of many weapons and the CS spray on humans.
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
I also carry Frontiersman. States such as CA apparently value the bear more than a person, as you pointed out. Bear spray is banned in parks such as Yosemite.
@aliensarereal7832
Жыл бұрын
You said everything when you said you must be comfortable in high stress situations.
@heidigib01
3 жыл бұрын
Yes, I’d tak a can of open bear spray if I lived in bear country
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
In theory so would I if I had no other option available, but that’s not reality (unless one is unprepared and ends up begging for bear spray in the trailhead parking lot). I would never put myself in a position of having to rely on an already opened and possibly used can of spray.
@newyorkslim2001
3 жыл бұрын
Wow - excellent little talk. So clear and logical. Very interesting but not likely relevant to me. I live in a quiet suburb and if I came face to face with a bear i'd probably charge it with my lawn mower.
@BacktotheOutdoors
3 жыл бұрын
Haha.
@masteryoda7583
3 жыл бұрын
Both!!
@DougHinVA
2 жыл бұрын
Bear Spray is NOT just for bears in the wild. A large dog or drugged person in a park is also a real threat. You may be assaulted and badly hurt by a person or badly mauled by a loose and untrained dog. Nearly no owner ever takes their dog through CGC certification or even all of a basic, intermediate, or advanced dog obedience class. Would you prefer to spray a dangerous dog or shoot it to death or badly injure it with a gun? Is a gunshot or a bear spray more likely to land you in a civil lawsuit? Do NOT assume a bear spray is only for a bear threat. Be prepared and think ahead and have a defense lawyer available if needed. You may be arrested and jailed. You cannot laugh it off or make an excuse with police officers.
@BacktotheOutdoors
2 жыл бұрын
It depends. If a dog is biting my pregnant wife, it’s getting shot, no questions asked. You can’t spray a dog with bear spray while it’s attacking without causing significant harm to the person being attacked. But to your point, bear spray is a great option before the attack occurs.
@straithill5965
Жыл бұрын
A grizzly bear is big, fast, and powerful. Probably the most dangerous land animal you can encounter in North America. So, what you want to protect yourself is a can of aerosol- no thanks.
@BacktotheOutdoors
Жыл бұрын
There’s no dispute over whether bear spray is effective. It is, and your baseless opinion doesn’t negate that.
@straithill5965
Жыл бұрын
@@BacktotheOutdoors Not trying to change your opinion or anyone else’s opinion. When I’m in grizzly country I don’t trust my life or the possibility of debilitating injury to a can of spray. Killing the bear with concentrated kinetic energy that is more powerful than the bear is works fantastically.
@BacktotheOutdoors
Жыл бұрын
@@straithill5965 - understood, but it is not my "opinion" that bear spray is effective. It is a simple fact. What you're saying is similar to claiming that it's an opinion to say seat belts work. I agree with you in the sense that given the option I wouldn't want bear spray to be my only line of defense (especially if it's really windy), but bear spray is highly effective and that is supported by all available evidence.
@straithill5965
Жыл бұрын
@@BacktotheOutdoors Yes. Covid helped us understand how lives can be saved by following the science. Nobody that got vaccinated or wore a mask died.
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