I carry a .38 snubby, everywhere, because of the light weight and ease of carry. I lie in a peaceful rural area. I do sometimes camp/trout fish, in black bear country. When I do I usually have a .44 Magnum, and a 30-30 carbine with 200gr Federal Fussion. I've never had a problem with bear, and don't expect I will. I trust the average bear far more than the average person with their pants worn too low. But the weapons are ones I own and I am comfortable with, and confident with. I also have a AR, and a shotgun. My shotgun is a 28" barrel, and I feel better about a .308 size bullet then a .224 if black bear were to get too friendly. Understanding that the noise of a gun itself is usually enough for them.