How far northwest you movin? I'm in Washington State and have hunted lots in the furthest north regions we have here. And yes, there are grizz here in the state. I have never felt undergunned carrying my .45 colt or .44 mag as a backup to my rifle or shotgun. I had a Desert Eagle in .44 for a few years, but didn't see the need to carry such a HEAVY gun. It shot great, and the recoil was low, but I gave it up for my model 29. I carry either Buffalo Bore 300 grainers or my home loaded 300 grain Speers in my .45, and either 270 grain Federal factory ammo or my home loaded 300 grain LazerCast in the .44.