"Using a small handgun against a bear is probably the singularly stupidest thing you could do on the trail."

Right. That's why a pump 12 ga. with slugs and/or 00 buck would be a smarter choice and it would double as a tarp pole. Thompson Contender in 30-40 Krag would be second choice for a hand gun if you're good with one shot. (it's light weight). Maybe a Model 94 in 30-30.... a carbine. No wimpy handguns for me either.

"I live in canada where firearms are strictly limited so firearms are not an option for us- "

Come to Texas. We can fix you right up.

"Come on people, use some common sense- a couple of little bullets aren't going to kill a 300+ lb. animal."

Uh....300+lb.? We're not talking about cubs here. More like 1200 lbs. And the right handgun WILL take out either, with one shot. The proper question is "can you use that firearm under pressure effectively?" The "21 foot rule" says you better have plenty of warning!

Do a search on this topic....it pops up every year.