I used to have the philosophy that I didn't need a handgun in the back country, until this year I had a bear come in to raid the meat sacks full of elk meat. He was walking not 6 feet from the end of my sleeping bag with me in it. Sleeping bags are not condusive to shooting a bow and arrow. Wolves are becoming a bigger issue all the time here in the rockies. Though there are only a handful of documented attacks on people, I don't intend on being the next one. A handgun can be used to signal search parties if I ever get a busted leg or get stranded also. I broke down and bought a 44 magnum for my pack when I go into the back country now. It fits just right under my pillow at night and lets me sleep with the added comfort I will not become a chew toy while sleeping under the stars.