Finest Bear Protection Handguns of 2023

The very first thing you’ll want to find out about bear protection handguns is that if you end up needing to make use of one, issues have gone terribly flawed. It’s best to by no means be snug with the concept that the one factor between you and an attacking bear may be a handgun. Even the behemoth .500 S&W Magnum has about half the vitality of a .375 Ruger—which some think about to be on the lighter finish of the spectrum for stopping a pissed-off brown bear.

A practical method to take a look at bear protection handguns is that they’re higher than nothing. A giant rifle and even slug gun is a correct instrument for conditions the place a harmful encounter is even remotely probably. However for the remainder of the time, a bear protection handgun is a good alternative in case you can carry it and shoot it proficiently. They’ve been used efficiently to thwart bear assaults every year.

Listed below are my bear protection handgun picks:

Issues to Contemplate Earlier than Shopping for the Finest Bear Protection Handgun

A Bear Protection Handgun Labored If the Assault is Stopped

The metric by which many individuals measure bear-stopping success is a bit fantastical relating to bear protection handguns. Most individuals think about a bear charging, and the measure of success is whether or not the bear folds to the bottom, sliding as much as their ft or not. The reality is that it most likely received’t occur like that. Hell, three months in the past I shot a medium-sized inside grizzly working towards me at 15 paces with a hot-loaded .338 Win. Magazine., and that stable shot to the chest didn’t even take her off her ft instantly. When you should defend your self from a bear with a handgun, any scenario through which you come out unscathed is a win, even when the bear runs off.

You’ll Should Shoot a Bear Extra Than As soon as

Contemplating that many bear fees stopped by rifles contain a couple of shot, you’re nearly assured to have you ever shoot a bear greater than as soon as with a pistol in case you’re compelled to defend your self. Decide a bear protection handgun that’s nimble to deal with, that you may observe with, and that you may shoot precisely underneath stress. Ammunition capability will be vital. Many keyboard consultants will let you know that you simply’ll solely get one shot off, so energy is what issues. The reality is that the one bear claws most of those of us will ever encounter are stored underneath clear plexiglass and distributed with aluminum tongs. Typically you would possibly get one shot, typically none. Within the warmth of the second although, ammo goes fast.

Due to these info, the 10mm Auto has seen an increase in recognition as a defensive cartridge in bear nation. Some nonetheless favor giant revolver cartridges, however with the greatest 10mm ammo, the cartridge has confirmed to be efficient in stopping bear assaults.

Learn Subsequent: Charged by a Grizzly: A 10mm Glock (and Severe Apply) Saved My Life

In a latest vary check, we shot the 10mm towards a light-weight .44 Magazine. and proved what many hunters already know: The 10mm is far simpler to shoot rapidly and precisely.

The Gun You Have is Higher Than the One You Don’t

To select a bear protection handgun that might be efficient for you, it’s vital to select one which you’ll carry on a regular basis. Having a handgun that you may carry and use intuitively with out impeding you within the woods is extra priceless than having a particular caliber or researching ballistic vitality tables. The 9mm loaded with Buffalo Bore hard-cast bullets that you’ve got is at all times going to be higher than the cannon you left at camp as a result of it’s a ache within the ass to hold.

Finest Bear Protection Handguns: Evaluations & Suggestions

Glock Gen 5 G20

Key Options

• Caliber: 10mm Auto
• Capability: 15+1
• Barrel: 4.6 inches
• Body: Polymer
• Optics Compatibility: Glock MOS optic mounting system
• Value: $700

There are two main camps relating to handguns for bear protection—large bore wheelguns and nimble semiautos—and the Glock G20 is the poster baby of the second. Over the previous decade it has turn into the preferred backcountry carry pistol, probably by a large margin. Whereas some think about a .44 Magnum revolver to be the minimal for a bear safety handgun, the 10mm G20 has confirmed itself as not solely a succesful assault stopper, however a normal for backcountry carry. The new Gen 5 G20 has a number of enhancements and the identical nice efficiency.

Like different Glock Fashions, the G20’s magnificence is its simplicity. It’s a polymer-framed, semi-automatic pistol with a 15+1 spherical capability. Till not too long ago, it was the one generally accessible double stack 10mm on gun retailer cabinets. It incorporates a 4.61-inch barrel, is simple to shoot, and runs with unquestionable reliability.

Early Glock 10mm barrels didn’t have nice case head help and earned a status for catastrophic failures on high-pressure 10mm hundreds. In any Gen 4 or newer  Glock G20, that’s not one thing you’ll have to fret about. You may safely hearth manufacturing unit ammo like Buffalo Bore, Underwood, and others. Glock barrels do are inclined to accumulate lead fouling with hard-cast bullets, simply observe with copper-jacketed ammo and clear your bore effectively after taking pictures solid bullets.

Learn Subsequent: Finest Glocks, A Full Information to Glock Pistols

Springfield XD-M Elite 3.8-inch Compact OSP

Key Options

• Caliber: 10mm Auto
• Capability: 11+1 or 15+1
• Barrel: 3.8 inches
• Body: Polymer
• Optics Compatibility: Springfield plate adapter system
• Value: $780

The recognition of the 10mm Auto as a backcountry and bear protection handgun cartridge has introduced quite a lot of consideration and variety to the choices on this explicit class. Some of the versatile 10mm pistols within the pack is the XD-M Elite 3.8-inch Compact OSP. Its mannequin title is a mouthful, however this compact 10mm brings the products.

Because the title signifies, it’s a compact 10mm pistol with a 3.8-inch barrel. It incorporates a detachable magwell and comes with 11-round magazines. It’s additionally appropriate with Springfield’s sleeved 15-round magazines to match the capability of the G20. In general dimensions, it’s almost similar in measurement to Glock’s compact 10mm, the G29. Nevertheless, the Springfield is rather more forgiving to shoot. It comes normal with an optics reduce and detachable plate, however can be accessible with Springfield’s Hex Dragonfly crimson dot sight. I’ve settled on a Leupold Delta Level Professional for mine.

After reviewing this pistol, I purchased it. You may learn the complete overview right here. I’ve carried it since then and have round 2,000 rounds by way of the gun with out a lot as a hiccup. I eliminated the magwell and located that it improved the grip for me. The gun may be very controllable with full-house 10mm hundreds, particularly utilizing a GoGun Gasoline Pedal takedown lever, and I discovered that I solely lose about 75 ft per second of velocity in comparison with a 5-inch aftermarket G20 barrel with scorching bear hundreds.

 Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0

Key Options

• Caliber: 10mm Auto
• Capability: 15+1
• Barrel: 4 inches
• Body: Polymer
• Optics Compatibility: S&W adapter plates
• Value: $610

A 10mm addition to the Smith & Wesson M&P line is a welcome sight for M&P followers on the lookout for a bear protection handgun. Constructed on the M&P 2.0 .45 ACP body, the M&P 2.0 10mm incorporates a full-size grip, 15+1 spherical capability, and a 4-inch barrel. It options wonderful grip texture and ergonomics, an ambidextrous slide cease, and reversible journal catch button, making it lefty pleasant. This gun additionally comes optics-ready and consists of a number of mounting adapter plates.

I examined and reviewed the M&P 2.0 10mm, then ran one other one arduous at our Finest Handguns of 2023 check. It’s correct, dependable, and has most likely one of the best grip contour and texture of any manufacturing unit polymer 10mm. For optimum match, it consists of the usual interchangeable M&P grip modules for a thinner or fatter grip. The stippling texture doesn’t slip simply, even with sweaty fingers.

The M&P 2.0 10mm has a bit snappier recoil than the G20, however the safe, snug grip makes it manageable. A giant benefit for a sensible bear protection handgun is coaching and familiarity. When you’re already carrying or taking pictures an M&P pistol, it is a nice possibility for the backcountry.

FN 510 Tactical

Key Options

• Caliber: 10mm Auto
• Capability: 15+1, 22+1
• Barrel: 4.71 inches
• Body: Polymer
• Optics Compatibility: FN optic adapter plates
• Value: $1,000

This previous 12 months, FN USA introduced one other sturdy, reliable 10mm semi-auto to the market: the FN 510 Tactical. The 510 relies on the smaller 509 collection and is a full-sized pistol that’s versatile, user-friendly, and completely ambidextrous. It comes with a normal 15-round and an prolonged 22-round journal that offers it unparalleled capability for a 10mm. 

I examined the 510 extensively and wrote a full overview, however shooters who’re conversant in the 509 collection received’t discover any surprises right here. The pistol has a long-pulling double-action set off and tall sights—the rear sight is protected against affect by a wing on either side. The 510 Tactical has a 4.71-inch threaded barrel that may accommodate a suppressor or compensator, and the slide is optic prepared. It’s a giant pistol, however sensible for the woods, particularly for anybody who already shoots FN pistols effectively.

Taylor’s & Co. 1911 A1 FS Tactical II

Key Options

• Caliber: 10mm Auto
• Capability: 8+1 rounds
• Barrel: 5 inches
• Body: Parkerized Metal
• Optics Compatibility: Iron sights solely
• Value: $720

Together with polymer pistols, the sector of fine 1911 pistols chambered in 10mm Auto has grown in recent times. Excessive-end 1911’s aren’t low-cost, and lots of high quality ones in 10mm will price effectively over $1,000. A few of these are nonetheless finicky. Taylor’s & Co. has been importing some funds 1911 pistols which have impressed us—particularly in our 2023 1911 check. I’ve had the prospect to shoot their 10mm M1911 A1 FS Tactical II mannequin, and have been happy with its efficiency.

 I haven’t had a single malfunction with the pistol but, and its primary function set is according to the funds worth. It has Wilson Fight-style grips, a magwell, ambidextrous safeties, a Novak-style adjustable rear sight, and a bull-profile barrel. The set off is fairly good and the end is best than different 1911 imports on this worth vary. Mine handles a wide range of bear protection hundreds effectively, and for somebody who’s a 1911 die-hard, it is a stable possibility.

Sig Sauer P320 XTen

Key Options

• Caliber: 10mm Auto
• Capability: 15+1
• Barrel: 5 inches
• Body: Polymer
• Optics Compatibility: Optic reduce, Romeo 2/Trijicon RMR sample
• Value: $799

Selection is an effective factor relating to bear protection handguns, and Sig Sauer’s new P320 XTen is a welcome addition to the market of 10mm handguns. The P320 collection options largely 9mm fashions, and has turn into a giant winner for Sig. That is partly due to its versatility. The XTen is an up-sized model that brings the P320 traits that many shooters like.

The XTen matches the capability of hottest 10mm bear protection pistols and comes with two 15-round metal magazines. The polymer body is barely bigger than the full-size 9mm X-frames however options the identical snug ergonomics and grip texture. It has a flat set off shoe and no set off security. Mounting a light-weight in your bear protection handgun is a large plus, and the XTen has an extended 5-slot accent rail. The 5-inch barrel offers a slight increase in velocity and an extended sight radius than most different polymer 10mm’s.

I’m within the technique of testing and reviewing an XTen now, and I’m liking it. I’ve discovered it to be very snug and manageable to shoot. I at present carry a P320 9mm day by day, and the similar ergonomics and grip angle translate very effectively throughout each weapons. I haven’t encountered any reliability points thus far, and it’s reminding me why I just like the P320 platform.

Learn our full overview of the Sig Sauer P320 X-Ten.

Key Options

• Caliber: .357 Magnum
• Capability: 6
• Barrel: 3 inches (longer barrels accessible)
• Body: Polished chrome steel
• Optics Compatibility: Iron sights solely
• Value: $1,499

Regardless of the modern recognition and perceived benefits of semi-autos as one of the best bear protection handguns, wheel weapons nonetheless see loads of use within the subject. Many people nonetheless think about them the one dependable possibility. Though not large by magnum revolver requirements, the .357 Magnum has lengthy been used right here in Alaska as a bear protection cartridge and was championed by long-time Fairbanks bear protection class teacher Joe Nava. With heavy hard-cast hundreds, it penetrates deep and is similar to the 10mm Auto. I as soon as needed to shoot a “useless” black bear with a .357 when he stood up lower than 5 yards away, and I’ll say that the efficiency was a lot enough.

There are various nice choices for .357 Magnum revolvers—the Ruger GP100 for instance—however my decide could be the Colt Python in a 3- or 4-inch configuration. I reviewed the 3-inch mannequin earlier this 12 months and was smitten. You may learn that overview right here. This six-shooter seems unbelievable, but in addition performs. The brand new Colt Python fashions are constructed to be as near the unique designs as potential, with some added mass within the upper-rear portion of the body for added energy.

The match on the brand new Colt Python 3-inch is tight, and operation is butter-smooth. You’ll lose a contact of velocity on the 3-inch barrel mannequin, however I imagine the comfort of carry to be value it. It rides properly in a chest holster and may be very controllable throughout double-action taking pictures.

Smith & Wesson Mannequin 629

Key Options

• Caliber: .44 Magnum
• Capability: 6
• Barrel: 6 inches 
• Body: Polished chrome steel
• Optics Compatibility: Iron sights solely
• Value: $1,100

For large bear protection handguns, the Smith & Wesson 629 is difficult to beat. Many laud the .44 Magnum as actual bear medication, and it’s received loads of energy for a bear protection handgun—so long as you keep in mind that it’s nonetheless not a rifle.

The 629 is a superb revolver. Its stainless-steel construct is made to be subjected to the weather frequent in bear nation. The 4-inch and 5-inch fashions are 9.5 and 10.5 inches in general size respectively, and so they have a superb stability of barrel size and dealing with for a .44. It’s a fairly snug revolver to shoot and holds 6 rounds of .44 Magnum or .44 Particular. The rubberized grip is good for moist situations and makes sharp recoil extra tolerable.

When you’re prepared to place within the observe, heavy .44 Magnum hundreds may give you an edge in penetration over less-powerful cartridges just like the 10mm, however you’ve solely received 6 pictures, so make them rely. The 4-inch Mannequin 629 will weigh about 4 kilos loaded, so be sure you have a snug solution to carry it. Though the Mannequin 329 PD is far lighter (and a very good revolver too), the recoil is totally punishing, and also you’ll be arduous pressed to get something on-target after the primary shot. The Mannequin 629 is a greater stability of ease-of-carry and recoil manageability.

Ruger Tremendous Redhawk Alaskan

Key Options

• Caliber: .44 Magnum
• Capability: 6
• Barrel: 2.5 inches 
• Body: Polished chrome steel
• Optics Compatibility: Iron sights solely
• Value: $1,200

When you’re on the lookout for powerful and reliable, Ruger’s Tremendous Redhawk revolvers are a superb place to begin. These double-action large bore revolvers have lengthy been fashionable in Alaska, and I carried one chambered in .480 Ruger with a 7.5-inch barrel till I received bored with lugging the factor round. The Tremendous Redhawk Alaskan is actually a chopped-down 2.5-inch barreled model. That makes it considerably extra handy to hold than the full-size mannequin.

Though there are a number of larger revolver cartridges on the market, I think about the .454 Casull to be a superb high finish alternative for a bear protection handgun. With uncommon exception, something larger is just a novelty. The .454 is difficult sufficient to shoot effectively, and even the larger cartridges nonetheless aren’t as much as the extent of a rifle. Like .44 Magazine/.44 Particular, you may observe with .45 Colt cartridges, and save the recent (and costly) stuff for the sector. Simply be sure you hold on while you contact it off.

Though you sacrifice important velocity by blowing a superb portion of your powder out the top of that quick 2.5-inch barrel, the benefit of carry is what makes this revolver sensible. Revolvers that get left within the truck or within the cabin whilst you’re doing chores are not any good. The Tremendous Redhawk Alaskan is likely one of the most carry-friendly big-bore revolvers. Its rubbery grip makes it fairly rattling tolerable to shoot too.

Last Ideas on the Finest Bear Protection Handguns

There isn’t a single greatest bear protection handgun for everybody. It’s vital to grasp that even one of the best or strongest handgun falls effectively wanting a giant rifle’s energy. A bear assault is assured to be a dynamic encounter with innumerable variables.

What’s sure is that if you wish to have an actual likelihood to cease a bear assault with a handgun, you’ll want to be carrying it—even while you don’t count on an encounter. It’s good to carry it in order that it may be drawn rapidly and simply. One other certainty is that you simply want to have the ability to draw and shoot precisely. Selecting a handgun that you simply’re snug and proficient with is best than simply chasing energy. Lastly, prepare along with your bear protection handgun like your life is dependent upon it, as a result of it would.