I use a 41mag stainless ruger redhawk most of the time.I think a good can of bear spray is best for fast close encounters,especially when your rifle is leaned up against a tree while you are gutting a bull.Or bloody hands that can slip off some pistol grips.By the time I could draw my pistol I could have sprayed the bear.Bear spray will blind them and take their breath away.I swear by it.