As has been noted, a BIG rifle is better than ANY handgun, but most people do not want to lug around 8+ lbs, that they often, will never use. A revolver is what you need. Reliable, and handy to carry concealed, I prefer the short barreled, bigger calibers, that are quicker to draw, and allow for rapid "point shooting".

I don't have anything but Black Bears in the Berkshires to worry about. Frankly, I'm more concerned about the "Yahoos" that I encounter in the woods, and on the banks of the river, while fishing. I usually carry a .38 spl. snubby. (M-36 or M-10), and have a M-66, if I feel the need for more. A K frame .22 is not a suitable weapon woods carry, IMO. Bob