mac, I know that you are here in Idaho, yes it is legal to carry a firearm during an archery only season as long as you don't use it to finish your animal off. For the spring bear season however it is an any weapon season. You can finish the animal off with the pistol if you choose, but will keep you out of pope and young. It is a good idea to carry a sidearm anymore. We have alot of predators including the new flea bags that are known to come in also. I wouldn't recommend shooting one of those flea bags, but it is nice to be able to protect yourself if the need arrises. I have my pistol at close reach at all times, I set up a ground blind 20 yards from the bait, I have had bears at 3 feet with only a peice of cloth separating us. It is nice to have a little insurance. Good luck.......