Backcountry Carry

I'd carry a resolver, named that because they have solved a lot of problems over the years, with .357 shooting a 180 grain hardcast swc lead pill as a minimum load but really prefer the .44 mag for such applications. My compromise is a .41 magnum that I love.
My .44 mag is a single action so in bear country, if it's used as a defensive weapon I opt for double action, hence, the .41 mag. I wouldn't look at something that can shoot a .410 shotshell if it were me because I believe that while it can be acceptable with two types of rounds it does an outstanding job with neither.
 
I also carry a Taurus Tracker in .44 mag. I like tho gun and also believe the recoil is manageable. I do not own a Glock though nor have I shot many.
 
Thanks all, I really am considering both the tracker and the g20 probably the tracker though as ammo is easier to find.
 
What do people do to keep their weapon dry in rainy situations, I will be in Alaska next September and I am pretty sure I will not be putting my side arm in my pack and I don't like the thought of it getting soaked.
 
G20 accuracy??

Anyone toyed with the extended barrel? I am somewhat of a gun nerd. I don't overly obsess about having a sidearm for protection. The whole idea has been played out over 1,000s of pages and hours of discussion. There is much consideration over several lower power factor rounds on target vs huge power factor rounds with single hits. I am in the comfort camp of a small handful of 10mm rounds with quality bullets making hits vs one marginal round from a 500 SW. Not so sure anyone would retain any hearing after firing a 2" 454/460/500 san ear pro anyhow.

But the 10mm has recently popped on my RADAR.

To the guy shooting HardCast, any issues? Accuracy? I'd bet there are a few really nice options out there for the handloader to create with a 10mm.

Dual Sport accuracy would be my concern. Being able to take a target of opportunity at 40 yards reliably. Cougars, wolves, grouse etc.
 
I'm looking for opinions on a sidearm as last archery season I was bluff charged by a cow moose.I was thinking of a dbl action revolver .357 or larger, I like the idea of guns like the tarus judge having the option to shoot .410 shells at the occasional treed grouse. I would like to keep it around $600 and barrel length under 4".

FWIW, we have moose on our property that winter by the house occasionally. I have the kids carry bear spray when doing chores. The cows get obstinate when calves are with them. I think you will have a hell of a time "stopping" a 600-800 pound animal with any handgun round, regardless of size. A nose and eyes full of pepper spray would most likely chase them off or disorient them enough to break contact.

Having said that, I carried a 5 1/2" 629 Classic for a lot of years. You can load 44 birdshot rounds for grouse and heavy loaded 240 or 300 grain hardcast for defense.
I carry a G20 now, but mostly for close follow up shots and defense against BGs. Having seen some awfully big critters absorb lead from powerful rifle rounds, I have no illusions about stopping a charging animal. Better to avoid the fight:)
 
Spend the extra money and get a S&W329PD .44 mag. You should be able to get one for around $800-$850 in excellent condition. It is lighter than any 4" .357 you will find, and the last backcountry sidearm you will ever need to buy. Enough power to stop a grizzly if your travels ever take you into that country, lighter than most semi-auots. As long as you maintain the firearm there are no worrys of jamming, stovepipes, etc.

There are reports that the heavy, 300-305gr corecast bullets can jump the crimp due to excessive recoil but I have never experienced it. If you are concerned about it, Buffalo Bore makes a lower recoil 255gr hardcast round specifically designed for the 329PD to eliminate the chance of crimp jump while still providing super penetration.

Whatever you get, I would reccomend the blade-tech holster with tek-lock attachment.
 
Anyone see the newer vid floating around of the snowmobiler dumping the moose with the Glock? I thought it could have been avoided but the handgun did ultimately work. Not starting a pissing match Sam. You're probably right.

The 5" 629 the hardest to find isn't it?
 
Been around pepper spray in the military. Seen it in action several times. I will take my chances with my G29!
 
As far as getting wet I carry a G20 and don't worry about it because of the reliable reputation it carries. When I get somewhere dry I will wipe down and clean
 
Anyone see the newer vid floating around of the snowmobiler dumping the moose with the Glock? I thought it could have been avoided but the handgun did ultimately work. Not starting a pissing match Sam. You're probably right.

The 5" 629 the hardest to find isn't it?

Jesse, yup, I saw that video and yes it could have been, and should have been, avoided. All he needed to do was wait until that young moose walked off, but he had to get to where he was going. Also, as noted, I think that it was a young moose and not a full grown mama moose.

Here is the link to the video if anyone wants to see it: link to video.

Larry
 
Back
Top