I carry one during archery season(where permitted).I usally carry a 41 mag or 44 mag.I used to carry a rifle and pistol during general season,but haven't the past few years cause I haven't been in bear country,and figured my rifle would work.
I do carry a pistol during pheasant hunting(during deer season)I've seen one to many big whities jump up and stop and look at me and all I have is a load of #5's.Figure one day it will pay off and I will get one.
Keep the markove at home unless you plan on finishing what the bear started.
BBJ