RE: Protection from unpleasant animals
I agree with most of the other posters. don't think of these fellow predators as unpleasant, rather that they are there just doing what they do. Humans make terrible prey, and as long as we aren't bothering other predators or endangering them or their young, they will recognize that and leave us be. Also, the likelihood of having the time to put aside a hunting rifle, unholster a revolver, aim and shoot is slim. the idea of being able to quickly point and shoot your rifle for protection is the more likely scenario.