ORIGINAL: James B
Look at the Taurus Titanium 7 shot 357. It weighs only 16 oz. Carry it with whatever load levels you can handle best from 38 wad cutters to full bore 357 loads. I looked at one and was really impressed with it. I have a four inch Taurus 357 revolver and have found them to be great shooters and very dependable. The 44 Mag with 44 special loads would also be pleasant to shoot IMO.
I kinda think that the 357 is on the light side for defence against black bears. If your going to try to wound one to death the above would be a great choice. If my life is at stake I would rather trust a fatter heavier load like a 44 and bigger with the 454 being the best choice of everything. Get a FA and shoot 45, 45LC and 454. I don't think there is a better combo of fun and killing in one package. Of course thats just one man's opinion that would change if all I had is a 357 when faced with a hungry or beligerant bear.