During bow season I always carry my .45 for protection, which as of thisseason is finally legal. If firearms and bow are both in season, I carry my .357 mag along with my bow if I still have a tag to fill. If I am only hunting with firearms I take out my shotgun onlyor ML with .357 on my side for close range shots and protection. However, I have a couple hunting buddies that carry out ML and shotguns both. They like to have a choice depending on what shot may present itself...