I know that there is a "bear repellent" spray on the market, its basiclly pure pepper spray that burns like a @#%@#$!. It's been said that these are more effective than handguns. In my case, I would rather use a gun then pepper spray to stop a charging bear, as the spray's range is only 30 feet, and a charging bear will cover 30 feet faster then you think. I don't think I would carry anything less than a .44 Magnum if you'll be in grizzly country, maybe a .357 if you'll only be with black bears. Good luck with hunting

Walk softly and carry a big gun...or just make accurate shots.