Actually a really good subject, my position is I want the most powerful pistol I can handle with the ability to get off multiple rounds quickly. The reason being is that the most or more powerful pistols are generally pretty tame when to compared to most rifles. IMO the only way you are going to put it down is with multiple shots. I grant you most of my experience is with Hogs and not Bears, but they both can come in XXL and can generally be tough to kill. I've been switching between .357 and 44 special as my hunting sidearm of choice. And have been wondering if there may be a better choice. The Brown Bear is making a come back in the areas where I usually do my vacation hunts. PPPPPP prior planning prevents pizz poor performance
has always been one of my mantras.