Ouch, that guy's lucky to be alive. A bear that size will definitely leave a mark if it gets a hold of you.

Just a reminder to watch yourself in the back woods and not take any chances with wounded animals. Make every shot count and give the animal time to expire.

You're right about the concealed handgun permits, but if those guys couldn't ge the job down with rifles (ended up beating on it with their buttstock?!), I doubt they could've with a sidearm.

Side note: proof of hunter education is sufficient to satisfy the firearm safety training requirement for obtain a Virginia CHP. If any bowhunters would feel better packing, go get your permit and be done with it (maximum $50 application fee, permits must be issued within 45 of the application date--both of those are by law). You can also carry in WMAs and National Forests so long as the pistol/revolver is concealed at all times.