99% of the time Black Bear's are just as scared of you as you are of them and they will leave. I always carry my .357 with 200 grain personal defense bullets to ensure nothing happens if there is an encounter. I try to walk to my stand at the very first hint of light because i don't like walking in the dark, unless the moon is out. Don't let your head get the best of you and ruin a hunt, just go you will be fine.