What are the best handguns for bear defense?
Bears present a serious threat to your health and safety in the wild.
These massive creatures generally prefer to remain isolated, yet encounters witfh humans do occur.
As a result, many people choose to bring a firearm when exploring the outdoors.
Learn more about the 9 best pistols for bear defense, below:
9 Best Handguns For Bear Defense
What happens when you encounter a bear in the wild?
Defending yourself against vicious predators has become a legitimate concern these days.
It appears that more people are having close encounters with dangerous animals, including coyotes, cougars, and bears.
Unfortunately, wildlife encounters are becoming increasingly common as people move closer to their habitats.
For this reason, many individuals have the need to protect themselves and their loved ones.
Accordingly, handguns are becoming a popular option for self-defense.
The best pistols for bear defense keep people safe on hiking trails and campgrounds during the warm months.
Therefore, most consider the best handguns for bear defense as follows:
- Glock 20 Gen4 10mm Pistol
- Sig Sauer P320 XTEN w/ Romeo 2
- Taurus Tracker 627 Medium 4″ .357 Mag/.38 SPL +P Revolver
- Rock Island Pro Match Ultra HC 10mm
- Colt King Cobra 357 Magnum
- S&W 686 Patridge Sight 6″
- Ruger-57 5.7x28mm 20+1 Round
- Springfield Garrison 5″ .45 ACP 1911
- Sig Sauer P220 Full-Size .45 ACP
In the past, people have used larger firearms like revolvers and rifles to subdue predators that pose a risk.
However, more individuals are switching to handguns because they are lightweight and compact.
Moreover, many of the best guns for bear defense are easy to use and maintain.
As such, you no longer need to buy a rifle or shotgun for personal self-defense.
The top handguns for bear self-defense offer the punch to stun a large animal while having the mobility and durability to stay reliable.
Interested? Discover more below:
#1. Glock 20 Gen4 10mm Pistol
- Action: Safe Action
- Caliber: 10mm (Auto)
- Weight: 27.51 oz (w/ magazine: 39.86 oz)
- Barrel Length: 4.61″
- Size: 8.07″ x 1.34″ x 5.51″)
- Round Capacity: 15 rounds
- Frame: Hi-tech Polymer
The Glock 20 Gen4 10mm semi-automatic pistol is one of the best handguns for bear defense.
For starters, the handgun is produced by one of the most recognizable names in the industry.
Glock has manufactured very accurate and reliable handguns for decades.
As a result, Glock handguns are one of the top choices for home safety and self-defense.
The Glock 20 Gen4 10mm pistol has a high-tech polymer finish that significantly reduces recoil even at a higher caliber.
Moreover, the integral accessory rail in front of the trigger guard is compatible with a wide range of gun attachments (laser sights, tactical flashlights, etc.).
Accordingly, the Glock 20 Gen4 10mm pistol is utilized by hunters and outdoorsmen for personal safety.
Furthermore, individuals have many options for personalizing the firearm, including adding a customized handgrip.
Additionally, the reversible magazine makes the handgun suitable for right and left-handed shooters.
The semi-automatic handgun has a high enough caliber (10mm) to take down even big game.
Therefore, many people in Alaska and the northern woods rely on the Glock 20 Gen4 10mm pistol against bears.
It’s a favorite among new and seasoned outdoorsmen thanks to the large magazine (15 rounds).
More importantly, the handgun is sold with 3 additional magazines for quick reloading.
For this reason, most consider the Glock 20 Gen4 10mm pistol easy to use and maintain.
The handgun is ultra-reliable in a variety of weather conditions, situations, and climates.
#2. Sig Sauer P320 XTEN w/ Romeo 2
- Action: Striker Fire
- Caliber: 10mm Auto
- Weight: 33 oz
- Barrel Length: 5″
- Size: 8.5″ x 1.3″ x 5.6″
- Round Capacity: 15 rounds
- Frame: Stainless Steel (Full Size)
The Sig Sauer P320 XTEN w/ Romeo 2 is not your typical handgun.
The latest addition to the legendary Sig Sauer family of firearms continues the company’s outstanding reputation.
First, the 10mm handgun is compact as well as straightforward to load and fire.
Accordingly, the Sig Sauer P320 XTEN is popular among hunters and sportsmen.
Secondly, the Sig Sauer P320 XTEN w/ Romeo 2 comes standard with a 5″ bull barrel, and Xray3 day / night sights.
Moreover, the X optic-ready slide has front and rear serrations for additional customization.
Third, the P320 XTEN handgun is optic-ready and compatible with the Romeo 2 reflex optic.
The Romeo 2 reflex optic is designed to improve shooting accuracy by withstanding the traditional large recoil from a 10mm pistol.
As a result, the redesigned X polymer grip provides more comfort and stability when firing the weapon.
Fourth, the Sig Sauer P320 XTEN w/ Romeo 2 is equipped with two 15-round magazines.
The backup magazine is a great accessory in the event the first one jams in the woods.
You’ll discover that the Sig Sauer P320 XTEN w/ Romeo 2 is not the most compact handgun.
Be that as it may, the full-sized, striker-fired pistol is exactly what you need to take down a bear and other big game.
The handgun is designed to excel in a variety of scenarios and conditions, including defending yourself in the wilderness.
#3. Taurus Tracker 627 Medium 4″ .357 Mag / .38 SPL +P Revolver
- Action: Direct Action / Side Action
- Caliber: .357 MAG / .38 Special +P
- Weight: 35 oz (unloaded)
- Barrel Length: 4″
- Size: 8.75″ x 1.5″ x 5.3″
- Round Capacity: 7 rounds
- Frame: Stainless Steel (Medium)
The Taurus Tracker 627 .357 Magnum / .38 SPL +P revolver rivals other handguns for staying safe outdoors.
For this reason, many consider the revolver among the best handguns for bear defense.
First and foremost, the Taurus Tracker 627 .357 Magnum / .38 SPL +P revolver is very rugged and reliable.
The handgun is designed to handle extreme weather conditions and still perform without a hiccup.
The factory-tuned ported barrel with a gas expansion chamber reduces the recoil associated with most large handguns.
Accordingly, the Taurus Tracker 627 .357 Magnum / .38 SPL +P revolver helps improve shooting accuracy and stability.
In general, many people of all skill levels find the Taurus Tracker 627 revolver easy to shoot.
The Taurus Tracker 627 Medium 4″ .357 Magnum / .38 SPL +P revolver features its patented Ribber Grip.
As such, new users find the handgun easy to handle and effective at the shooting range.
The .357 magnum / .38 special caliber is precisely what you need to drop a threatening bear in the wild.
Additionally, the front and rear sights make it easier to focus on a dangerous target.
Nevertheless, the Taurus Tracker 627 revolver does not have near the magazine capacity range (7 rounds) compared to other handguns on the list.
Despite this, many outdoorsmen still pack the weapon in the woods if they stumble across a bear.
#4. Rock Island Pro Match Ultra HC 10mm
- Action: Single
- Caliber: 10mm Semi-Automatic
- Weight: 2.9 lbs.
- Barrel Length: 6″
- Size: 9.5″ x 1.41″ x 5.5″
- Round Capacity: 17 rounds
- Frame: Steel Parkerized
There is no doubt that a bear wants nothing to do with a Rock Island Pro Match Ultra HC 10mm handgun.
For starters, the massive handgun with a 6″ high-grade barrel can take down anything perceived as a threat.
The Rock Island Pro Match Ultra HC 10mm handgun has a larger footprint compared to other models on the list.
Nonetheless, the 10mm semi-automatic pistol has no problem dropping larger animals.
The handgun was developed by master gunsmiths at Rock Island Armory Medallion.
As such, the firearm is chambered in 10mm with an impressive 16-round capacity.
Moreover, the adjustable LPA rear sight and high visibility fiber optic front sight improve precision and accuracy.
The Rock Island Pro Match Ultra HC 10mm handgun also has a skeletonized hammer and a 4 – 6 lb. trigger (with an adjustable over-travel stop).
Consequently, individuals may customize the weapon until it’s just right for their needs.
The Rock Island Pro Match Ultra HC 10mm handgun combines power and damage with reliable accuracy.
More importantly, Rock Island Armory Medallion is considered one of the top manufacturers of handguns for self-defense.
For this reason, people who live or play outdoors know that they can rely on the Rock Island Pro Match Ultra HC 10mm handgun.
#5. Colt King Cobra 357 Magnum
- Action: Double Action
- Caliber: .357 Magnum / .38 Special
- Weight: 28 oz.
- Barrel Length: 6″
- Size: Not listed
- Round Capacity: 6 rounds
- Frame: Stainless Steel (Medium)
The Colt King Cobra 357 Magnum is one of the best handguns for bear defense, no questions asked.
For starters, the firearm is produced by one of the most recognizable and reputable names in the business.
The original Colt King Cobra .357 Magnum was introduced in 1986.
Since then, the handgun has undergone several rounds of innovation.
The King Cobra is an ode to the smaller, more compact Colt Cobra wheelguns of the 1950s.
Nevertheless, the newer version is chambered in a much higher caliber compared to previous double-action 6 shooters.
As a result, the lightweight and compact pistol still packs a serious punch.
The .357 magnum / .38 special caliber is more than enough to survive a bear attack.
More importantly, the affordable price of the double-action handgun makes it popular with people of all skill levels.
The long 6″ barrel will scare the daylights out of anything, including large prey, while assisting with accuracy and power.
However, the Colt King Cobra 357 Magnum does not have the same round capacity as the other firearms on the list.
#6. S&W 686 Patridge Sight 6″
- Action: Single / Double Action
- Caliber: .357 Magnum
- Weight: 44.9 oz (without magazine)
- Barrel Length: 6″
- Size: 11.94″ x 1.55″ x 6″
- Round Capacity: 6 rounds
- Frame: Satin Stainless (Medium)
The S&W 686 Patridge Sight 6″ revolver is a member of the S&W Archive Collection.
The collection features firearms that are either brand-new, exclusive collections, original releases, or models that are no longer manufactured.
As such, the S&W 686 Patridge Sight 6″ revolver is deserving of being part of this renowned firearms collection.
The revolvers are built for the ultimate firearms enthusiast.
These .357 magnum firearms are available in 6 and 7-shot cylinders.
Moreover, the L-frame design is very strong and durable.
The satin stainless steel frame and long barrel (6″) also pack a huge punch.
Accordingly, the S&W 686 Patridge Sight 6″ revolver can penetrate the wide body of a vicious bear.
In the past, both outdoorsmen and police officers have relied on Smith and Wesson revolvers for their dependability.
Smith & Wesson revolvers are notorious for withstanding heavy use and being very reliable.
Therefore, as far as .357 revolvers go, it’s hard to argue with the value of the S&W 686 Patridge Sight 6″ handgun.
#7. Ruger-57 5.7x28mm 20+1 Round
- Action: Secure Action Fire Control System
- Caliber: 5.7mm x 28mm
- Weight: 24.5 oz.
- Barrel Length: 4.94″
- Size: 8.65″ x 1.2″ x 5.6″
- Round Capacity: 20 +1 rounds
- Frame: Alloy Steel
The Ruger-57 5.7x28mm 20+1 round handgun also ranks among the best handguns for bear defense.
Why?
Ruger is a legendary supplier that is known for its innovation and rugged, reliable firearms.
More importantly, Ruger handguns are affordable and do not cost a fortune to own.
The Ruger-57 5.7x28mm 20+1 round handgun is another example of what separates the manufacturer from the competition.
The handgun is chambered in the high-performing yet low-recoiling 5.7x28mm caliber.
Therefore, both new and experienced marksmen can handle the pistol with ease.
The Ruger-57 5.7x28mm 20+1 round pistol is known for being ergonomic, smooth-firing, and accurate.
Furthermore, the easy trigger reach and 1911-style ambidextrous manual safety make the handgun straightforward to use.
The Ruger-57 5.7x28mm pistol features a reversible magazine latch and through-hardened billet steel side with lightening cuts.
Accordingly, you have many other options for customizing the handgun.
Lastly, the impressive 20 +1 rounds of fire offer more than enough opportunities to take down an intimidating predator.
#8. Springfield Garrison 5″ .45 ACP 1911
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Caliber: .45 ACP
- Weight: 37 oz.
- Barrel Length: 5″
- Size: 8.6″ x 1.4″ x 5.5″
- Round Capacity: 7 rounds
- Frame: Forged Carbon Steel (Blue)
The Springfield Garrison 5″ .45 ACP 1911 is for those who love tradition.
It’s a classic example of not changing what already works.
The Springfield Garrison 5″ .45 ACP 1911 looks really stylish with a hot salt-blued carbon steel and wood design.
Furthermore, the semi-automatic handgun is upgraded with all the latest features and innovations.
The Springfield Garrison 5″ .45 ACP 1911 has a shooting capacity of 7 rounds.
The checkered thinline wood grips and double-diamond pattern also give shooters a cozy, attractive feel.
Those new to using handguns will appreciate the straightforward, compact design.
The barrel is not overbearing (5″) yet can still hammer through the thick body of a live bear.
Those who buy the Springfield Garrison 5″ .45 ACP 1911 also receive a complimentary handgun case.
#9. Sig Sauer P220 Full-Size .45 ACP
- Action: Single / Double Action
- Caliber: .45 Automatic
- Weight: 30.4 oz.
- Barrel Length: 4.4″
- Size: 7.7″ x 1.5″ x 5.5″
- Round Capacity: 8 rounds
- Frame: Aluminum
The Sig Sauer P220 Full-Size .45 ACP is another great way to protect yourself during a bear attack.
It’s a modern, enhanced version of the original Sig Sauer P220 handgun.
There are many who consider the P220 handgun one of the best for self-defense.
The handgun is very reliable and consistent, dependable under many different circumstances.
More importantly, both new and experienced users find the Sig Sauer P220 Full-Size .45 ACP easy to operate.
The custom G-10 handgrips are stylish and cozy for a tight handle on the firearm.
The stainless-steel slide with Sig Sauer Electro-Optics X-Ray offers high visibility, day or night.
Those who purchase the Sig Sauer P220 Full-Size .45 ACP receive three, 8-round magazines.
The 10mm caliber of the handgun (along with the additional magazines) makes it suitable during a bear attack.
People have the choice of switching between single or double action.
Thus, the Sig Sauer P220 Full-Size .45 ACP is as accurate and reliable as any other firearm on the list.
However, some users may find the handgun a little too bulky or heavy for regular use.
FAQ
What are the best handguns for bear defense?
Get answers and solutions to frequently asked questions, below:
What is the best handgun defense against a bear?
There are many reliable pistols and handguns for self-defense.
In general, most consider the Glock 20 Gen4 10mm pistol and Sig Sauer P320 XTEN w/ Romeo 2 among the best options.
Meanwhile, some people recognize the value of the Taurus Tracker 627 .357 Mag / .38 Special and Rock Island Pro Match Ultra HC 10mm handgun.
Then, others argue that the legendary Colt King Cobra .357 Magnum or Sig Sauer P220 are the best handguns for bear defense.
Finally, you might consider other handguns, including the S&W 686 Patridge Sight 6″ and Ruger-57 5.7 x 28mm.
The legendary Springfield Garrison 5″ .45 ACP 1911 is another worthwhile consideration.
What caliber handgun is the best for bear defense?
It depends on who you ask.
In general, many people want a larger caliber (.44 or higher) to penetrate the massive body of a bear.
However, others prefer a smaller caliber and lighter weapon for accuracy.
Then, there is the ability to customize with personalized handgrips, sights, and other handgun accessories.
Accordingly, you should find a handgun that is right for your needs and aspirations.
The best handguns for bear defense share many things in common, including being dependable and reliable.
Nevertheless, personal preference may determine which pistol or handgun is right for your needs.
What pistol should I carry in bear country?
Once again, it depends on personal preference and past experience.
There are many who have used a particular handgun or model for years.
As such, some find it more comfortable firing a .357 magnum compared to a .45 ACP handgun.
Thus, you should spend the time it takes to find the best handguns for bear defense for your needs.
The best guns in bear country often feature a combination of accuracy, reliability, and durability.
Thus, take the time you need to find a firearm that works best for defending yourself from bears.
Best Handguns For Bear Defense Summary
Are you trying to find the best handguns for bear defense?
Thankfully, there are many worthwhile options to consider.
These include the Glock 20 Gen4 10mm pistol, Sig Sauer P320 XTEN w/ Romeo 2, and Taurus Tracker 627 .357 Magnum.
Additionally, the Rock Island Pro Match Ultra HC 10mm handgun and Colt King Cobra .357 Magnum perform well.
Moreover, the S&W 686 Patridge Sight 6″ and Ruger 57 57 x 28mm rival the other handguns in many respects for self-defense.
Lastly, the Springfield Garrison 5″ .45 ACP 1911 and Sig Sauer P220 Full-Size .45 ACP are among the best handguns for bear defense.
Stay tuned, as we plan on releasing another article that talks about the best rifles (and ammo) for bear defense!
