It's interesting to hear people mention wild dogs. I think I mentioned this in a post months ago, but they're the only animal I've encountered that I have a real fear for; they may or may not have a fearful respect for humans the way other animals do, and they can get an unhealthy gangster-pack mentality when they're too wild.

I have been thinking of backing down from carrying a full-powered .44 magnum or even .357 magnum when hiking, at least in the lower 48. I think hot .38 +p would be enough for most likely threats. I'm very curious about the S&W Airweight 442 or 642, or possibly their Airlight M&P 340. An Airweight 317 sounds like it would be fun for small game hunting, too, but I don't know if I'd depend on .22 lr for protection.

Edit: If anybody's interested, it looks like the hottest .38 +p loads out there are made by Buffalo Bore and Double Tap. They almost have the same muzzle energy as light .357 magnums, which is impressive.