Best Bear Defense Handguns of 2024

The very first thing it is advisable to learn about bear protection handguns is that if you end up needing to make use of one, issues have gone terribly unsuitable. You must by no means be comfy with the concept that the one factor between you and an attacking bear is likely to be a handgun. Even the behemoth .500 S&W Magnum has about half the vitality of a .375 Ruger — which some take into account to be on the lighter finish of the spectrum for stopping a pissed-off brown bear.

A sensible means to have a look at bear protection handguns is that they’re higher than nothing. An enormous rifle and even slug gun is a correct device for conditions the place a harmful encounter is even remotely probably. However for the remainder of the time, a bear protection handgun is a superb selection 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 finest 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 with regards 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 gained’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 strong shot to the chest didn’t even take her off her ft instantly. In the event you should defend your self from a bear with a handgun, any scenario wherein you come out unscathed is a win, even when the bear runs off.

You’ll Need to Shoot a Bear Extra Than As soon as

Contemplating that many bear fees stopped by rifles contain a couple of shot, you’re virtually 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, which you can apply with, and which you can shoot precisely below stress. Ammunition capability may be necessary. Many keyboard consultants will inform you that you just’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 below clear plexiglass and distributed with aluminum tongs. Typically you may get one shot, typically none. Within the warmth of the second although, ammo goes fast.

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

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

In a latest vary take a look at, we shot the 10mm against a light .44 Mag. and proved what many hunters already know: The 10mm is way simpler to shoot shortly and precisely.

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

To choose a bear protection handgun that will probably be efficient for you, it’s necessary to select one which you’ll carry on a regular basis. Having a handgun which you can carry and use intuitively with out impeding you within the woods is extra precious than having a particular caliber or researching ballistic vitality tables. The 9mm loaded with Buffalo Bore hard-cast bullets that you’ve is all the time 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

Glock Gen 5 G20

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Key Options

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

There are two main camps with regards to handguns for bear protection—huge bore wheelguns and nimble semiautos—and the Glock G20 is the poster little one of the second. Over the previous decade it has grow to be the most well-liked backcountry carry pistol, probably by a large margin. Whereas some take into account 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 typical for backcountry carry. The new Gen 5 G20 has a couple 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 out there double stack 10mm on gun retailer cabinets. It encompasses 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 masses. In any Gen 4 or newer  Glock G20, that’s not one thing you’ll have to fret about. You may safely hearth manufacturing facility ammo like Buffalo Bore, Underwood, and others. Glock barrels do are likely to accumulate lead fouling with hard-cast bullets, simply apply with copper-jacketed ammo and clear your bore nicely after taking pictures forged bullets.

Learn Subsequent: Best Glocks, A Complete Guide to Glock Pistols

Springfield XD-M Elite 3.8-inch Compact OSP

Springfield XD-M Elite 3.8-inch compact OSP

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Key Options

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

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

Because the identify signifies, it’s a compact 10mm pistol with a 3.8-inch barrel. It encompasses a detachable magwell and comes with 11-round magazines. It’s additionally suitable with Springfield’s sleeved 15-round magazines to match the capability of the G20. In total dimensions, it’s practically an identical in measurement to Glock’s compact 10mm, the G29. Nonetheless, the Springfield is way more forgiving to shoot. It comes commonplace with an optics reduce and detachable plate, however can also be out there with Springfield’s Hex Dragonfly crimson dot sight. I’ve settled on a Leupold Delta Point Pro for mine.

After reviewing this pistol, I purchased it. You may read the full review here. I’ve carried it since then and have round 2,000 rounds by means 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 could be very controllable with full-house 10mm masses, particularly utilizing a GoGun Gas 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 sizzling bear masses.

 Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0

Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0

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Key Options

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

A 10mm addition to the Smith & Wesson M&P line is a welcome sight for M&P followers in search of a bear protection handgun. Constructed on the M&P 2.0 .45 ACP body, the M&P 2.0 10mm encompasses a full-size grip, 15+1 spherical capability, and a 4-inch barrel. It options glorious 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 Best Handguns of 2023 take a look at. It’s correct, dependable, and has most likely one of the best grip contour and texture of any manufacturing facility 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, comfy grip makes it manageable. An enormous benefit for a sensible bear protection handgun is coaching and familiarity. In the event you’re already carrying or taking pictures an M&P pistol, it is a nice possibility for the backcountry.

FN 510 Tactical

FN 510 Tactical

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Key Options

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

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

I examined the 510 extensively and wrote a full review, however shooters who’re accustomed to the 509 collection gained’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 influence 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 an enormous pistol, however sensible for the woods, particularly for anybody who already shoots FN pistols nicely.

Glock G29 Gen 5

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Key Options

• Caliber: 10mm Auto
• Capability: 10+1 rounds
• Barrel: 3.78 inches
• Body: Polymer
• Optics Compatibility: Iron sights solely
• Worth: $550

The Glock G29 is the unique sub-compact 10mm pistol, and this pint-sized powerhouse has endurance. The Gen 5 model doesn’t function the MOS optic mounting system that a number of the different fifth era Glocks have, but it surely does share a number of the favorable enhancements over earlier fashions. First, the annoying finger groves have been ditched, and the grip options the raised stipple texturing that may simply be improved with house stippling. The pistol has extra backstrap items which can assist the pistol suit your hand higher — notably when you’ve got giant fingers. The Gen 5 G29 has ambidextrous slide cease levers and each entrance and rear cocking serrations.

There isn’t room on your pinkie on this little grip, and it’s not very nice to shoot. Nonetheless, an excellent compact pistol may be fairly helpful to hold, and with apply, you should utilize if successfully in an emergency — particularly in a holster that’s under or attached to your bino harness. I’ve a buddy that opts to hold a G29 over the full-sized G20 when guiding hunters within the mountains of Alaska, and he’s sucessfully fended off no less than one shut, fast-charging grizzly bear with it.

Taylor’s & Co. 1911 A1 FS Tactical II

Taylor’s & Co. 1911 A1 FS Tactical II

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Key Options

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

Together with polymer pistols, the sphere of fine 1911 pistols chambered in 10mm Auto has grown lately. Excessive-end 1911’s aren’t low-cost, and plenty of high quality ones in 10mm will value nicely 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 test. I’ve had the possibility 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 fundamental function set is according to the funds value. 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 healthier than different 1911 imports on this value vary. Mine handles quite a lot of bear protection masses nicely, and for somebody who’s a 1911 die-hard, it is a strong possibility.

Sig Sauer P320 XTen

Sig Sauer P320 XTen

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Key Options

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

Selection is an effective factor with regards 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 grow to be an enormous 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 comfy 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 provides a slight enhance in velocity and an extended sight radius than most different polymer 10mm’s.

I’m within the means of testing and reviewing an XTen now, and I’m liking it. I’ve discovered it to be very comfy and manageable to shoot. I presently carry a P320 9mm day by day, and the an identical ergonomics and grip angle translate very nicely throughout each weapons. I haven’t encountered any reliability points up to now, and it’s reminding me why I just like the P320 platform.

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

Colt Python 3-inch

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Key Options

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

Regardless of the modern reputation and perceived benefits of semi-autos as one of the best bear protection handguns, wheel weapons nonetheless see loads of use within the discipline. Many people nonetheless take into account them the one dependable possibility. Though not huge 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 loads, it penetrates deep and is similar to the 10mm Auto. I as soon as needed to shoot a “lifeless” black bear with a .357 when he stood up lower than 5 yards away, and I’ll say that the efficiency was a lot sufficient.

There are a lot of nice choices for .357 Magnum revolvers—the Ruger GP100 for instance—however my decide can be the Colt Python in a 3- or 4-inch configuration. I reviewed the 3-inch mannequin earlier this yr and was smitten. You may read that review here. This six-shooter seems improbable, 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 power.

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 could be very controllable throughout double-action taking pictures.

Smith & Wesson Model 629

Smith & Wesson Mannequin 629

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Key Options

• Caliber: .44 Magnum
• Capability: 6
• Barrel: 6 inches 
• Body: Polished chrome steel
• Optics Compatibility: Iron sights solely
• Worth: $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 acquired loads of energy for a bear protection handgun—so long as you do not forget 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 total size respectively, they usually have a superb stability of barrel size and dealing with for a .44. It’s a fairly comfy revolver to shoot and holds 6 rounds of .44 Magnum or .44 Particular. The rubberized grip is good for moist circumstances and makes sharp recoil extra tolerable.

In the event you’re prepared to place within the apply, heavy .44 Magnum masses may give you an edge in penetration over less-powerful cartridges just like the 10mm, however you’ve solely acquired 6 photographs, so make them depend. The 4-inch Mannequin 629 will weigh about 4 kilos loaded, so be sure you have a snug strategy to carry it. Though the Mannequin 329 PD is way 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 Super Redhawk Alaskan

Ruger Tremendous Redhawk Alaskan

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Key Options

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

In the event you’re in search of robust and reliable, Ruger’s Tremendous Redhawk revolvers are a superb place to start out. These double-action huge bore revolvers have lengthy been standard in Alaska, and I carried one chambered in .480 Ruger with a 7.5-inch barrel till I acquired 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 couple of larger revolver cartridges on the market, I take into account the .454 Casull to be a superb high finish selection for a bear protection handgun. With uncommon exception, something larger is just a novelty. The .454 is difficult sufficient to shoot nicely, and even the larger cartridges nonetheless aren’t as much as the extent of a rifle. Like .44 Magazine/.44 Particular, you may apply with .45 Colt cartridges, and save the recent (and costly) stuff for the sphere. Simply be sure you dangle on whenever you contact it off.

Though you sacrifice vital velocity by blowing a superb portion of your powder out the tip of that quick 2.5-inch barrel, the convenience 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 among the most carry-friendly big-bore revolvers. Its rubbery grip makes it fairly rattling tolerable to shoot too.

Learn Subsequent: Types of Pistols, a Beginner’s Guide

Last Ideas on the Finest Bear Protection Handguns

There isn’t any single finest bear protection handgun for everybody. It’s necessary to grasp that even one of the best or strongest handgun falls nicely wanting an enormous rifle’s energy. A bear assault is assured to be a dynamic encounter with innumerable variables, like how fast the bear can run and what sort of terrain you’re on.

What’s sure is that if you wish to have an actual probability to cease a bear assault with a handgun, it is advisable to be carrying it—even whenever you don’t count on an encounter. You could carry it in order that it may be drawn shortly and simply. One other certainty is that you just want to have the ability to draw and shoot precisely. Selecting a handgun that you just’re comfy and proficient with is healthier than simply chasing energy. Lastly, prepare along with your bear protection handgun like your life relies on it, as a result of it would.