Calguns.net  

Home My iTrader Join the NRA Donate to CGSSA Sponsors CGN Google Search
CA Semiauto Ban(AW)ID Flowchart CA Handgun Ban ID Flowchart CA Shotgun Ban ID Flowchart
Go Back   Calguns.net > FIREARMS DISCUSSIONS > California handguns
Register FAQ Members List Calendar Mark Forums Read

California handguns Discuss your favorite California handgun technical and related questions here.

Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 11-14-2012, 3:50 PM
trooper357 trooper357 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Rocklin, CA
Posts: 180
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default Gun for protection while fishing and hiking

Ok, I have posted questions regarding a small lightweight revolver to carry on my hip or in my fishing vest while hiking and fishing for protection against bears, mountain lions, other 4 and 2 legged aggressive animals. I do not hunt so I would only use the gun if I was being attacked. I have been a fan of revolvers but I am thinking that I should not limit myself to revolvers VS automatic pistols. I want some input on the Auto Pistols. I use to carry a Colt Trooper MKlll .357 6" barrel but it was way too long and heavy. So I was thinking of the Ruger SP101 3" barrel when someone chimed in with a Glock auto .45cal ACP and said it was lighter and better. So a can of worms has opened and nor I need some education on the Automatics VS revolvers. I did have a .45 cal standard issue back in 1970 while I was an MP (516th) in the Army. But since the I have only had a Colt Trooper MKlll .357mag 6 ". I do not shoot at targets or practice. Probably should but not a gun person per say. So looking for information on a good gun for my needs while in the wilderness. Any recommendation, suggestions, etc would be appreciated. BTW, I am 63 years old but not an old fart. Well, not yet. I still like to get out and do as much as I can. I did sell the Colt Trooper to another forum member so gunless right now. Not in any hurry since winter has hit but looking forward to next spring in the Sierras. Ok, rambled on enough. Thanks!
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 11-14-2012, 4:00 PM
SA227driver's Avatar
SA227driver SA227driver is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: Free State of Arizona
Posts: 1,373
iTrader: 64 / 100%
Default

Shoot both and see what you are the most comfortable with.

-There are plenty of holster options for both revolvers and semi-autos.
-A semi-auto has the ability to carry more rounds
-A revolver, for the most part, is more simple to operate
-Something in .357,.44mag, 10mm, or .45acp should do the trick for any 4-legged or 2-legged predators where you are up there in NorCal

If you were down south I'd let you try my Ruger GP100 and G21SF. :-D
__________________
NRA, CGF, GSSF, SAF member
Certified Glock Armorer 2011, 2016

"Praise be to the LORD my Rock, who trains my hands for war, my fingers for battle. -Psalm 144:1
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 11-14-2012, 4:09 PM
SacTown's Avatar
SacTown SacTown is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: NorCal
Posts: 1,784
iTrader: 1 / 100%
Default

I personally carry a Glock 29SF in 10mm while out in the woods. Full power hardcast 10mm is nothing to sneeze at.
__________________
SI VIS PACEM, PARA BELLUM
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 11-14-2012, 4:15 PM
TRICKSTER's Avatar
TRICKSTER TRICKSTER is offline
I need a LIFE!!
 
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: Palomino Vally, Pah-Rah Mountains, NV
Posts: 12,438
iTrader: 15 / 100%
Default

Either style should serve your purpose. The revolver has the benefit of accepting snake loads if that is a concern.
__________________


Never underestimate the power of stupid people in large groups
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 11-14-2012, 4:15 PM
P5Ret P5Ret is offline
Calguns Addict
 
Join Date: Oct 2010
Location: SF Ebay
Posts: 6,187
iTrader: 1 / 100%
Default

I shoot and carry both auto's and revolver's, and have carried both in the woods. Mostly I carry a revolver when hiking or fishing a S&W Mod 66 2 1/2" seems to work just fine. I also don't get as many funny looks with the revolver as I did with the auto's. The one big advantage I find with the revolver is the ability to use CCI snake shot in case I run into one of the less friendly type reptiles. Auto's will also fire them although I haven't had much luck with cycling the round, with my sig p220.
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 11-14-2012, 4:29 PM
Oceanbob's Avatar
Oceanbob Oceanbob is online now
I need a LIFE!!
 
Join Date: Jun 2010
Posts: 12,687
iTrader: 170 / 100%
Default

I am also a fan of the GLOCK 29 in 10MM but since you said you're not a 'gun guy' and ammo for the 10 is expensive I would say get a GLOCK 30 in .45 ACP. (you mentioned .45 ACP already)

It is a lightweight piece (unlike a heavy metal 1911) and holds 9 rounds. Very accurate and soft shooting; ammo is available and not expensive.

It will handle any encounters you come across.

Both the Glock 29 in 10MM and the Glock 30 in .45 are the exact same frame and size.

I run 13 round preban mags in mine and an aftermarket lonewolf barrel so I can shoot my lead reloads. But if I were hiking I would just run it stock; good enough.

__________________
May the Bridges I burn light the way.

Life Is Not About Waiting For The Storm To Pass - Its About Learning To Dance In The Rain.

Fewer people are killed with all rifles each year (323 in 2011) than with shotguns (356), hammers and clubs (496), and hands and feet (728).
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 11-14-2012, 5:19 PM
JTROKS's Avatar
JTROKS JTROKS is offline
I need a LIFE!!
 
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: NorCal - Bay Area
Posts: 13,097
iTrader: 134 / 100%
Default

When I was in soCal back in the early 90s we hiked and hunted the San Bernardino Natl forest and the 2 guns I pick as a hip gun were 1911 full size in 10mm and my trusty 6" stainless GP100. We were more afraid of 2 legged vermins than the mountain lions or bears. I favored the revolver over the 1911 due to the snakes. My first 2 rounds are snakeshots then my 140 JHPs. I have a speedleader full of 158 JSPs and another with 180 grain TMJs.
__________________
The wise man said just find your place
In the eye of the storm
Seek the roses along the way
Just beware of the thorns...
K. Meine

Last edited by JTROKS; 11-14-2012 at 5:26 PM..
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 11-14-2012, 5:44 PM
Red Devil Red Devil is offline
Banned
 
Join Date: Jul 2010
Posts: 800
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Glock G36

Six round (6+1) .45 ACP.

Glocks are simple, accurate, and virtually indestructible. They will not rust or rot and they usually eat anything of quality.

No external safeties - just aim and shoot.

This one is very slim. a little over an inch. It is also light, ~ 20 oz. empty and 27 oz. loaded.

Six 230 gr. ball or std. HST ammo will deal w/ any problem you can expect to come across, unless you frequent Dope woods or the Border...

...and it also comes w/ another mag.


Did I mention that it's small, slim, and light?






Last edited by Red Devil; 11-14-2012 at 6:10 PM..
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 11-14-2012, 6:50 PM
smittty smittty is offline
Calguns Addict
 
Join Date: Feb 2008
Posts: 6,138
iTrader: 16 / 94%
Default

I've done a fair bit of hiking/camping/fishing/hunting in the Sierras and I carried several different handguns over the years so I have some opinions based on experience.

My biggest recommendation is to choose the lightest weight gun that you would feel comfortable with. There has been many times when I dreaded the feeling of the heavy revolver on my hip. It gets hot up there and you feel every ounce of gear on your body. So weight is my first consideration.

Chances of having to use the gun are very small.

Defense against snakes is not a consideration IMO. If you have time to draw on a snake you have time to avoid it.

Bears, well you never know but what ever pistol you are carrying is too small anyway so in reality having a gun might make you feel good but hats it. So feel good that you at least have a gun!

Mountain lions, I don't know much as I've never killed one but I feel completely confident that it would approach me from the front, we'd face off like two dueling cowboys and I of course would draw first and nail it between the eyes. Well not exactly but I think you get the picture!

Now that I've owned and carried several types I prefer polymer framed semi autos over revolvers. Mostly due to lighter weight and increased capacity...iow I feel they are more efficient.

The lightest gun I ever carried in the woods was a S&W 642. It wasn't fun to shoot so I sold it. the heaviest gun I ever carried was a 6" 686. Sold it because it was way heavy. I carried it for several trips before realizing it was more of a burden than anything else.

These days I'll carry a Ruger LC9 or the heaviest is a polymer framed SP01 CZ Phantom.

If you are used to revolvers I suggest a pistol without anything extra to think about. Something like a glock is dead simple...squeeze the trigger thats it, no manual safety to fumble with and the trigger pull is the same every time.

Like some others suggested, the compact glocks in 45 acp are real efficient little packages that pack a lot of punch.

Good luck,
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 11-15-2012, 7:14 AM
trooper357 trooper357 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Rocklin, CA
Posts: 180
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

OK, I think the Glock .45 may be the right gun. Especially if you have a critter ot one of those two legged numskulls are ready to attack. I like the idea of getting several shots off quickly with the same trigger pull over the revolver. I think the light weight is also a big factor along with shorter overall length for hiking and fishing. Only question is how bad is recoil with the .45ACP ? Would it be worse or better than say the Ruger SP101 3" .357mag?
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 11-15-2012, 7:19 AM
guns4life's Avatar
guns4life guns4life is offline
Veteran Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: In a van...down by the river.
Posts: 4,916
iTrader: 6 / 100%
Default

I carry my Ruger Blackhawk(5.5") in .45acp when I'm out hunting.
__________________

Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 11-15-2012, 8:19 AM
smittty smittty is offline
Calguns Addict
 
Join Date: Feb 2008
Posts: 6,138
iTrader: 16 / 94%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by trooper357 View Post
OK, I think the Glock .45 may be the right gun. Especially if you have a critter ot one of those two legged numskulls are ready to attack. I like the idea of getting several shots off quickly with the same trigger pull over the revolver. I think the light weight is also a big factor along with shorter overall length for hiking and fishing. Only question is how bad is recoil with the .45ACP ? Would it be worse or better than say the Ruger SP101 3" .357mag?
I owned both the 3" sp101 and G30 and the G30 feels like it has less recoil. i think a combination of it being a semi-auto and polymer frame makes it feel softer.

Also I find the 45acp has a slower "boomy" recoil were the 357mag has a sharp recoil that stings a bit.

Last edited by smittty; 11-15-2012 at 8:22 AM..
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 11-15-2012, 9:05 AM
Red Devil Red Devil is offline
Banned
 
Join Date: Jul 2010
Posts: 800
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by smittty View Post
I owned both the 3" sp101 and G30 and the G30 feels like it has less recoil. i think a combination of it being a semi-auto and polymer frame makes it feel softer.

Also I find the 45acp has a slower "boomy" recoil were the 357mag has a sharp recoil that stings a bit.
That has been my experience as well.


Here is a good vid. on the SP101 4", what I would recommend as the revolver choice... a very good one.

Ruger Four-Inch 357 Magnum SP101 Double-Action Kit Gun

But it won't carry like the G36.

The Glock design put most of the mass in the slide, so the recoil tends to be straight back before the Bbl. starts up. The std. 230 gr. .45 ACP is a low-pressure round and is softer to shoot out of my G36 than 180 gr. .40 out of my G23, almost the same wt. and form-factor pistol.

For most of your needs the std. 230 gr. will serve you well, but if you want 5" Bbl. 1911 performance out of this little dog, you need to go to a 230 gr. "+P" load.

The good thing is that they are usually the same price as the std. stuff in a Tactical load like the outstanding 230 gr. Federal HST round.

The not-so-good thing is that the recoil profile goes up into that of the higher energy .40 rounds. Manageable and comfortable, but a little more exciting.


The key to any Glock is how you hold it.

I call it "raw-egg", like shaking a raw egg really hard in your hand. Firm but gentle grip w/ a maximum of low-pressure contact area. Don't Break it - Don't Drop it. Then smooth trigger and let the pistol do its thing.


Either the Ruger 4" or the G36 would be a good choice. Pick the one the sings to ya.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 11-15-2012, 9:11 AM
stix213's Avatar
stix213 stix213 is offline
AKA: Joe Censored
CGN Contributor - Lifetime
 
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: Manteca
Posts: 18,957
iTrader: 8 / 100%
Default

G29 for backpacking here. Can shoot low power .40S&W equivalent loads up to much hotter than .45ACP can do. Great gun.
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 11-15-2012, 11:25 AM
trooper357 trooper357 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Rocklin, CA
Posts: 180
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by stix213 View Post
G29 for backpacking here. Can shoot low power .40S&W equivalent loads up to much hotter than .45ACP can do. Great gun.
I am not familiar with the ACP VS regular .45 caliber. Is it a shorter shell or shorter bullet?
Reply With Quote
  #16  
Old 11-15-2012, 11:39 AM
stix213's Avatar
stix213 stix213 is offline
AKA: Joe Censored
CGN Contributor - Lifetime
 
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: Manteca
Posts: 18,957
iTrader: 8 / 100%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by trooper357 View Post
I am not familiar with the ACP VS regular .45 caliber. Is it a shorter shell or shorter bullet?
.45ACP is the "regular .45 caliber"
Reply With Quote
  #17  
Old 11-15-2012, 11:48 AM
kakinuma-kun's Avatar
kakinuma-kun kakinuma-kun is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2009
Location: San Francisco Bay Area
Posts: 256
iTrader: 12 / 100%
Default

I've been carrying a S&W 396 (.44 magnum/ .44 special) in a chest holster for fishing/hunting or on my hip for hunting/hiking, depending on need and configuration.

I plan on always using it with .44 special in CA.

It's a compact, light, big-bore combination.
Reply With Quote
  #18  
Old 11-15-2012, 12:16 PM
Big O Big O is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: SoCal
Posts: 366
iTrader: 12 / 100%
Default

I would look at an 8 round .357 Magnum revolver such as the S&W Nightguard. Reasonably lightweight, no issues with corrosion, reliability and simplicity of a revolver, big enough to handle all predators in this state, yet small enough to go in a jacket pocket if necessary, and 8 rounds of powerful .357 Mag., which to me is better than 9 rounds of .45 in a semiauto, IMHO of course.
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 11-15-2012, 12:52 PM
guns4life's Avatar
guns4life guns4life is offline
Veteran Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: In a van...down by the river.
Posts: 4,916
iTrader: 6 / 100%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by stix213 View Post
G29 for backpacking here. Can shoot low power .40S&W equivalent loads up to much hotter than .45ACP can do. Great gun.


I switch to the .45lc cylinder for the real hot stuff...
__________________

Reply With Quote
  #20  
Old 11-15-2012, 1:02 PM
trooper357 trooper357 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Rocklin, CA
Posts: 180
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Big O View Post
I would look at an 8 round .357 Magnum revolver such as the S&W Nightguard. Reasonably lightweight, no issues with corrosion, reliability and simplicity of a revolver, big enough to handle all predators in this state, yet small enough to go in a jacket pocket if necessary, and 8 rounds of powerful .357 Mag., which to me is better than 9 rounds of .45 in a semiauto, IMHO of course.
So you are saying a .357mag will stop a bear better than a .45acp? Even though the .45 is a much larger bullet? (disregarding hit location)
Reply With Quote
  #21  
Old 11-15-2012, 1:06 PM
paul0660's Avatar
paul0660 paul0660 is offline
In Memoriam
 
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Ukiah
Posts: 15,669
iTrader: 34 / 100%
Default

Quote:
I use to carry a Colt Trooper MKlll .357 6" barrel but it was way too long and heavy
I really think a good holster can solve that. Still, it can't be concealed which can be a problem.

Quote:
8 round .357 Magnum revolver such as the S&W Nightguard
This would be an ideal setup if it were possible to shoot.
__________________
*REMOVE THIS PART BEFORE POSTING*
Reply With Quote
  #22  
Old 11-15-2012, 1:09 PM
paul0660's Avatar
paul0660 paul0660 is offline
In Memoriam
 
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Ukiah
Posts: 15,669
iTrader: 34 / 100%
Default

Quote:
So you are saying a .357mag will stop a bear better than a .45acp?
Every time, but not out of a 2 inch barrel. .357 is up to twice the impact of a .45. I have never asked a bear, however.
__________________
*REMOVE THIS PART BEFORE POSTING*
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 11-15-2012, 1:12 PM
Red Devil Red Devil is offline
Banned
 
Join Date: Jul 2010
Posts: 800
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by trooper357 View Post
I am not familiar with the ACP VS regular .45 caliber. Is it a shorter shell or shorter bullet?
.45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) is an old, low-pressure round.

.45 ACP +P is a higher pressure variant that is safe in most Pistols (including Glocks) and either ups the velocity of a 5" Bbl. ~ 50 fps. (ft/sec.), or gives you ~ 5" Bbl. velocity out of a 4" Bbl.

So, while you watch this vid, know that you will get this bullet performance in a "+P" variety of this ammo out of the ~3-3/4" G36 Bbl. (and that is what I run in mine)

45 ACP Federal HST 230 gr Ammo Gel Test
Reply With Quote
  #24  
Old 11-15-2012, 1:23 PM
trooper357 trooper357 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Rocklin, CA
Posts: 180
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by paul0660 View Post
Every time, but not out of a 2 inch barrel. .357 is up to twice the impact of a .45. I have never asked a bear, however.
If that's the case and the .357mag out of a 4" barrel will stop a bear better than a 45+p out of a 4" barrel, I better start looking at the .357mag VS .45+p. I guess I am learning something new every post.
Reply With Quote
  #25  
Old 11-15-2012, 1:26 PM
Red Devil Red Devil is offline
Banned
 
Join Date: Jul 2010
Posts: 800
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by trooper357 View Post
So you are saying a .357mag will stop a bear better than a .45acp? Even though the .45 is a much larger bullet? (disregarding hit location)
For big hogs, big cats, and small bear I carry 180 gr. Hornady XTP or Cor-Bon's 180 gr. Bonded Core Soft Points loaded to ~ 1300 fps out of a Ruger Blackhawk 6-1/2" Bbl. .357 Mag...

(but it doesn't fit in my tackle-box.)


A heavy, high SD .357 will burrow in deep on big, tough critters. So will a 180 gr. TMJ .40 S&W or 10 mm.

Last edited by Red Devil; 11-15-2012 at 1:29 PM..
Reply With Quote
  #26  
Old 11-15-2012, 1:37 PM
Red Devil Red Devil is offline
Banned
 
Join Date: Jul 2010
Posts: 800
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by trooper357 View Post
If that's the case and the .357mag out of a 4" barrel will stop a bear better than a 45+p out of a 4" barrel, I better start looking at the .357mag VS .45+p. I guess I am learning something new every post.
Bears are a tricky thing. Would suggest you bring along a M1 Garand loaded w/ 180 gr. Nosler Partitions...

Reply With Quote
  #27  
Old 11-15-2012, 3:43 PM
Oceanbob's Avatar
Oceanbob Oceanbob is online now
I need a LIFE!!
 
Join Date: Jun 2010
Posts: 12,687
iTrader: 170 / 100%
Default

It's all about 'trade-offs'. Either a heavy longer barreled .357 with 6 or 8 rounds which will do the job OR a more compact polymer GLOCK that is lighter weight but can carry more ammo.

I do like the idea of a G29 running hot .40 ammo. Never thought of that..good idea. Small gun, 15 rounds. (or .40 or 10MM). (Thanks Stix213)

Factory .40 is less expensive than 10MM anyday which makes a difference in how much practice you get. No use carrying anything you haven't mastered with lots of practice.

Trooper...actually the Colt Trooper you just sold was perfect except for the weight and size. Backpacking around the woods you want something light and effective that isn't apparent to people passing you on the trail.

JMO
__________________
May the Bridges I burn light the way.

Life Is Not About Waiting For The Storm To Pass - Its About Learning To Dance In The Rain.

Fewer people are killed with all rifles each year (323 in 2011) than with shotguns (356), hammers and clubs (496), and hands and feet (728).
Reply With Quote
  #28  
Old 11-15-2012, 4:32 PM
trooper357 trooper357 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Rocklin, CA
Posts: 180
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Yep, the Colt Trooper I sold was a really nice gun but for my needs and being 63, I want something small and light that will stop almost anything that may want to attack me. Don't care if it's 5 or 6 or 8 or 10 rounds since I am guessing 5 may be the most I could get off before becoming lunch for a bear or mountain lion. So I am looking for the best gun to fit my needs. Needs to be quick out of a holster and ready to fire. That's one reason I like the Glock. But when it comes to ammo, not sure what is best. Would be a close target as I don't hunt and would not shoot unless I was in real danger. I would rather try and scare away an animal than shoot it. But if it's coming at me very fast, I want to get off as many shots as possible in case I miss a few! So undecided on gun type and caliber.


Quote:
Originally Posted by Oceanbob View Post
It's all about 'trade-offs'. Either a heavy longer barreled .357 with 6 or 8 rounds which will do the job OR a more compact polymer GLOCK that is lighter weight but can carry more ammo.

I do like the idea of a G29 running hot .40 ammo. Never thought of that..good idea. Small gun, 15 rounds. (or .40 or 10MM). (Thanks Stix213)

Factory .40 is less expensive than 10MM anyday which makes a difference in how much practice you get. No use carrying anything you haven't mastered with lots of practice.

Trooper...actually the Colt Trooper you just sold was perfect except for the weight and size. Backpacking around the woods you want something light and effective that isn't apparent to people passing you on the trail.

JMO
Reply With Quote
  #29  
Old 11-15-2012, 8:50 PM
smittty smittty is offline
Calguns Addict
 
Join Date: Feb 2008
Posts: 6,138
iTrader: 16 / 94%
Default

Any gun small and light enough isn't going to be "enough" to reliably take down a bear.

It's going to be a compromise no matter how you look at it. A powerfully revolver is going to be very heavy. A tiny easy to carry 642 is just a pee shooter in terms of bear defense.m Your going to be somewhere in between. And shorter barrels don't let you get the most of the caliber. It's a compromise any way you slice it!

I never liked carrying the SP101. Mine was a 3" 5 shots. I thought it would be the holy grail but it wasn't. I sold it.

I also tried the G30 thinking it would be the holy grail, sold it too. I still recommend it thought. If it fits your hand well then I think it's worth a try. Rent one and try it before you buy. I think it's a love it or hate it proposition!

I feel most comfortable carrying my CZ Phantom. Its the right size, grip texture, capacity, shootability under stress, and the weight is the maximum I'm willing to carry. I have a hip holster and a shoulder holster for it so depending if I'm wearing a pack or a jacket etc, I'll choose a carry method that works for the situation. I've accept that it's a last ditch caliber in terms of large animal defense but that is also very low on my list of "worries". If I didn't have this gun I'd probably carry something like a G19, CZ PCR, USPS Compact, SR9, etc. I also shoot this gun often which helps with confidence in using it under stress.
Reply With Quote
  #30  
Old 11-15-2012, 8:50 PM
smittty smittty is offline
Calguns Addict
 
Join Date: Feb 2008
Posts: 6,138
iTrader: 16 / 94%
Default

Any gun small and light enough isn't going to be "enough" to reliably take down a bear.

It's going to be a compromise no matter how you look at it. A powerfully revolver is going to be very heavy. A tiny easy to carry 642 is just a pee shooter in terms of bear defense.m Your going to be somewhere in between. And shorter barrels don't let you get the most of the caliber. It's a compromise any way you slice it!

I never liked carrying the SP101. Mine was a 3" 5 shots. I thought it would be the holy grail but it wasn't. I sold it.

I also tried the G30 thinking it would be the holy grail, sold it too. I still recommend it thought. If it fits your hand well then I think it's worth a try. Rent one and try it before you buy. I think it's a love it or hate it proposition!

I feel most comfortable carrying my CZ Phantom. Its the right size, grip texture, capacity, shootability under stress, and the weight is the maximum I'm willing to carry. I have a hip holster and a shoulder holster for it so depending if I'm wearing a pack or a jacket etc, I'll choose a carry method that works for the situation. I've accept that it's a last ditch caliber in terms of large animal defense but that is also very low on my list of "worries". If I didn't have this gun I'd probably carry something like a G19, CZ PCR, USPS Compact, SR9, etc. I also shoot this gun often which helps with confidence in using it under stress. And I don't carry a spare mag. All this is well within my comfort zone but everyone is different.

Last edited by smittty; 11-15-2012 at 8:54 PM..
Reply With Quote
  #31  
Old 11-16-2012, 6:12 AM
Horton Fenty's Avatar
Horton Fenty Horton Fenty is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: Up River
Posts: 921
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

A revolver is your best choice for woods carry. Reliable, simple, versatile, and available in more powerful cartridges than an auto. Midsize frame single actions are pretty slim and easy to carry compared to similar double actions. Hammer spur on a single action is the biggest negative. 357 Mag, 44 Mag, 45 Colt, etc, take your pick. I carry a 4" Flattop Blackhawk in 45 Colt, that's just the combination I prefer. 45 Colt, and others that throw a big *** bullet downrange moving at a good clip, are just what you need for the type of situation you might encounter walking around the woods. That once and million chance that something with more teeth and claws than you can count tries to eat you, and at best you have the chance to get off one or two shots.

Last edited by Horton Fenty; 11-16-2012 at 8:45 AM..
Reply With Quote
  #32  
Old 11-16-2012, 6:47 AM
trooper357 trooper357 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Rocklin, CA
Posts: 180
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

That was a very interesting video. But shooting into a jelly type block VS penetration into a bear may not be the same. I have heard hard cast bullets penetrate better than hallow points. Would like to have seen a comparison test done with both types. Obviously the hollow point will do a lot more damage if it can get to the inside and do it's slicing.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Red Devil View Post
.45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) is an old, low-pressure round.

.45 ACP +P is a higher pressure variant that is safe in most Pistols (including Glocks) and either ups the velocity of a 5" Bbl. ~ 50 fps. (ft/sec.), or gives you ~ 5" Bbl. velocity out of a 4" Bbl.

So, while you watch this vid, know that you will get this bullet performance in a "+P" variety of this ammo out of the ~3-3/4" G36 Bbl. (and that is what I run in mine)

45 ACP Federal HST 230 gr Ammo Gel Test
Reply With Quote
  #33  
Old 11-16-2012, 8:06 AM
JTROKS's Avatar
JTROKS JTROKS is offline
I need a LIFE!!
 
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: NorCal - Bay Area
Posts: 13,097
iTrader: 134 / 100%
Default

Penetration and expansion has always been the quest of any bullet manufacturer. If my 357 magnum rounds will reliably expand to 2x the original diameter while penetrating 48" of any test media then I can sell my 44 magnums and 454 Cassul. My concern for a hiking/fishing/hunting hip gun has always been ruggedness and reliability. The possibility of falling into a stream or dumping an ATV are there. What if you are so occupied with the trout you have on and a mountain lion pounces on you putting you in an up close struggle where a possible jam can happen after the first shot with a semi-auto. Most attacks happen on unaware victims, either sleeping/resting or pre-occupied with something that they dont sense the presence of a wild dangerous animal. The chance of seeing these animals is very small, you'll see more coyotes and rabbits out there. After having a few close encounters with angry magpies it made me wish I brought a shotgun. With my little experience with hunting and hiking far from civilization my number one pick is still my 6" stainless Ruger GP100.

Here are links to wildlife encounters.

http://www.dfg.ca.gov/news/issues/be...incidents.html

http://www.dfg.ca.gov/news/issues/lion/attacks.html

http://www.nctimes.com/sports/column...2b224b591.html
__________________
The wise man said just find your place
In the eye of the storm
Seek the roses along the way
Just beware of the thorns...
K. Meine
Reply With Quote
  #34  
Old 11-16-2012, 8:22 AM
paul0660's Avatar
paul0660 paul0660 is offline
In Memoriam
 
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Ukiah
Posts: 15,669
iTrader: 34 / 100%
Default

Quote:
I better start looking at the .357mag VS .45+p.
If you believe the math, .357mag hits harder than .45, even plus P.

With exotics and handloading, anything is possible, but I do think most .45 were designed for 230@800 FPS, .357 200@1200. If I can get expanding bullets (to expand), I think the .357 is better.

.44 mag and the bigger newer calibers are the best........and someday I will have them. Until then, I do have some handguns that will make the bear blink
__________________
*REMOVE THIS PART BEFORE POSTING*
Reply With Quote
  #35  
Old 11-16-2012, 8:57 AM
trooper357 trooper357 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Rocklin, CA
Posts: 180
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by JTROKS View Post
Penetration and expansion has always been the quest of any bullet manufacturer. If my 357 magnum rounds will reliably expand to 2x the original diameter while penetrating 48" of any test media then I can sell my 44 magnums and 454 Cassul. My concern for a hiking/fishing/hunting hip gun has always been ruggedness and reliability. The possibility of falling into a stream or dumping an ATV are there. What if you are so occupied with the trout you have on and a mountain lion pounces on you putting you in an up close struggle where a possible jam can happen after the first shot with a semi-auto. Most attacks happen on unaware victims, either sleeping/resting or pre-occupied with something that they dont sense the presence of a wild dangerous animal. The chance of seeing these animals is very small, you'll see more coyotes and rabbits out there. After having a few close encounters with angry magpies it made me wish I brought a shotgun. With my little experience with hunting and hiking far from civilization my number one pick is still my 6" stainless Ruger GP100.

Here are links to wildlife encounters.

http://www.dfg.ca.gov/news/issues/be...incidents.html

http://www.dfg.ca.gov/news/issues/lion/attacks.html

http://www.nctimes.com/sports/column...2b224b591.html


I hike and fish Nevada, Placer, and El Dorado counties mainly. Here is part of you article that happened where I spend much of my time:

A 63-year-old man was attacked by a mountain lion on Sunday while camping in Nevada County, according to a California Fish and Game report.

The hiker was asleep along the banks of a tributary to the Yuba River when the lion attacked, biting and clawing through his sleeping bag about 1 a.m.

The DFG report said the attack lasted nearly two minutes, and then "the animal ceased the attack, looked at him from 15 feet away for another 15 to 30 seconds, and then ran into the night." The camper was able to drive himself to a hospital where he was treated for severe scratches and puncture wounds. Wardens returned to the campsite and found mountain lion tracks. Efforts to track the lion using trained dogs have been unsuccessful.


Also, those are reported attacks. There are many more encounters than reported to DFG.

Last edited by trooper357; 11-16-2012 at 9:09 AM..
Reply With Quote
  #36  
Old 11-16-2012, 10:35 AM
JTROKS's Avatar
JTROKS JTROKS is offline
I need a LIFE!!
 
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: NorCal - Bay Area
Posts: 13,097
iTrader: 134 / 100%
Default

back in the days when I was searching for the ultimate camping/hiking/hunting sidearm, the thought of getting attacked while inside a sleeping bag crossed my mind many times. Talking to a friend made him admit of the same scenario so we took an old comforter that is about the same material as a light weight sleeping bag and tested my Caspian 10mm, Colt commander 45ACP and GP100. He had a Ruger SBH, Glock21, a Hi-power copy and a S&W686. All the autos fired the first chambered round, but there was a high rate of failure to feed the next round if there was fabric tension exerted at the muzzle and top of the front sight. The revolvers did not have any failure except for failure to fire when fabric gets in between the hammer and firing pin, in which the autos had the same problem except the G21. One thing we learned is you can set a comforter on fire when shooting a 44 mag loaded full of W296 next to the barrel and cylinder gap.
__________________
The wise man said just find your place
In the eye of the storm
Seek the roses along the way
Just beware of the thorns...
K. Meine
Reply With Quote
  #37  
Old 11-16-2012, 10:49 AM
13withinfinity's Avatar
13withinfinity 13withinfinity is offline
Senior Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Posts: 784
iTrader: 9 / 100%
Default

For general purpose rock climbing and mountain hiking, I carry an old interarms Rossi in .38 special. Cheap, realiable and I will be heartbroken but not bankrupt if i drop or lose it.

If I am going to where bears or mountain lions are, I carry my Alaskan .454 in a chest rig, just in case i need some serious noisemaking ability and stopping power.
Reply With Quote
  #38  
Old 11-16-2012, 11:01 AM
paul0660's Avatar
paul0660 paul0660 is offline
In Memoriam
 
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Ukiah
Posts: 15,669
iTrader: 34 / 100%
Default

Quote:
One thing we learned is you can set a comforter on fire when shooting a 44 mag loaded full of W296 next to the barrel and cylinder gap.
__________________
Bag o' truth.
__________________
*REMOVE THIS PART BEFORE POSTING*
Reply With Quote
  #39  
Old 11-16-2012, 11:11 AM
trooper357 trooper357 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: Rocklin, CA
Posts: 180
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

After looking at velocity charts for muzzle, 50yd, and 100yd. I think my best bet for a small lightweight gun is either a 10mm or 357mag. They are fairly equal and both have very good penetrating. The 9mm is close behind. Of course these are smaller and lighter than the 45 auto. So knockdown would be the 45 but to kill, I would think the 357 or 10mm? Also, how about recoil/kick since it will be a small pistol with around a 4" barrel. Probably a Glock. Considering all, I want a gun that is easy to control if I need to get several shots off in a matter of a few seconds. Not for target practice! LOL
Reply With Quote
  #40  
Old 11-16-2012, 12:22 PM
Red Devil Red Devil is offline
Banned
 
Join Date: Jul 2010
Posts: 800
iTrader: 0 / 0%
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by trooper357 View Post
After looking at velocity charts for muzzle, 50yd, and 100yd. I think my best bet for a small lightweight gun is either a 10mm or 357mag. They are fairly equal and both have very good penetrating. The 9mm is close behind. Of course these are smaller and lighter than the 45 auto. So knockdown would be the 45 but to kill, I would think the 357 or 10mm? Also, how about recoil/kick since it will be a small pistol with around a 4" barrel. Probably a Glock. Considering all, I want a gun that is easy to control if I need to get several shots off in a matter of a few seconds. Not for target practice! LOL
Your limiting factor for performance is Bbl. length.

A Light/hot/fast .357 like the 140 gr. Barnes is good out of a 4" Bbl. But when you get heaver? Most of the extra power goes into recoil and fireworks.

I know Underwood make some scary 180 gr. 10 mm Auto loads that would be about the top for game killin' power, 'cept that out of a less than 4" Bbl. they would be pretty close to a .40 S&W load w/ a whole lot more recoil and fireworks.

Now, If you wanted a Specialty Pistol, and had a few extra bucks to spend, you could get an aftermarket Bbl. for something like a Compact G29 10 mm, say the Lone Wolf 4.6"? That would give you a reasonably small and light pistol w/ a pretty good big-game punch shooting the Underwood 180 gr. fodder.

Recoil would not be pleasant, but shoot-able.

200 gr. +P .45 ACP also move along pretty well and because of the bigger piston of the bullet diameter, they are more efficiently out of shorter Bbls. Recoil will still be what it is... no escaping Physics, but not as bad as full-throttle 10 mm stuff.

I have carried and shot Compact Glocks in both .45 ACP and .40 S&W in the field. Light/small/comfortable to shoot. Truncated metal jackets for the big stuff because it penetrates well, and currently HST hollow points for the Two-legged stuff because it blows a nice hole a foot deep.



...And then there's the Ruger SP101 4" in .357 Mag...
Reply With Quote
Reply

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off

Forum Jump



All times are GMT -8. The time now is 10:56 AM.




Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.11
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions Inc.
Proudly hosted by GeoVario the Premier 2A host.
Calguns.net, the 'Calguns' name and all associated variants and logos are ® Trademark and © Copyright 2002-2021, Calguns.net an Incorporated Company All Rights Reserved.
All opinions, statements and remarks made by Calguns.net on this web site and elsewhere are solely attributable to Calguns.net.



Seams2SewBySusy