C-Rad,
I have killed 5 black bears with my bow and have hunted Elk and Deer where were lots of Black bears. Like you I never had any fear of them. Well last year I formed a differnt opinion. While walking through a large patch of scrub oak on my way to my stand I must have somehow got between a sow and her cub. It was dark and I was walking with a small head lamp for light. She charged me and stoped 10 yards away poping her teeth and was making very loud huffing sounds. Let me tell you I now have a whole new opinion and this year I am carrying a side arm while bowhunting in bear country.