Handguns for Outdoor Defense Against Animals
Key Takeaways
SHIT THAT WORKS!
500 Linebaugh - Ruger Black Hawk conversion
500 Linebaugh - Ruger Red Hawk conversion
500 JRH - Ruger Black Hawk conversion
500 JRH - Magnum Research
475 Linebaugh - Freedom Arms Model 83
454 Casull - Freedom Arms Model 83
45 ACP - Glock Model 21
10mm - Glock Model 20
Choice of Holster Style and why
Bear Spray SUCKS!
Transcript
Hi friends, we're in our Idaho office again, and one of the topics I deal with daily as the owner of Buffalo Bore Ammunition is outdoor defense guns. When people think of outdoor defense, they often think of grizzly bears, mountain lions, wolves (which are rarely an issue), and even moose. Moose can be dangerous—I’ve seen them kill people. Handguns are great outdoor companions because they're easy to carry in a shoulder holster, like my 500 Linebaugh, which I’ve used to kill several bears and even a bull moose that was either trying to stomp me or breed me—I wasn’t waiting to find out!
Let's talk about holsters and how to carry handguns in the woods. Any fool who carries an outdoor gun in a backpack or somewhere it’s not readily accessible is just that—a fool. You need quick access, and the gun shouldn’t interfere with your other gear or your movements. I prefer a shoulder holster because it’s convenient, doesn’t interfere with my jacket, backpack, or rifle, and the gun is easily accessible. Some people prefer chest holsters, which are handy but can get in the way of binoculars or certain backpacks.
Now, let's talk about ammo. What works on humans is different from what works on large animals like bears or moose. Expanding bullets, like hollow points, are great for humans but not for large, tough animals. For outdoor defense, I use flat-nose bullets, like a 440-grain flat-nose in my 500 Linebaugh. Flat-nose bullets displace more tissue, penetrate better, and do more damage than round-nose bullets. You want deep penetration, and flat-nose solids give you that.
I've used various guns for outdoor defense, including my 500 Linebaugh, a 475 Linebaugh, and a 454 Casull. I also have semi-autos like Glocks, but while they’re reliable and hold more ammo, they don’t have the stopping power of larger-caliber revolvers. That said, Glocks are great for black bears, which are typically easier to scare off than grizzlies. Grizzlies, on the other hand, often need to be killed to stop an attack.
Semi-autos are lighter, hold more ammo, and are easy to carry. But revolvers are more reliable in the woods, especially for dangerous animals. I keep a round chambered in all my guns, and I handle them accordingly. Proper training is essential, so I advocate for lots of practice to be ready in any situation.
Hopefully, this video has been helpful. Always find a gun that fits you, train with it, and understand its limitations and yours. Everything in the gun world is a tradeoff, whether it’s for home defense, hunting, or outdoor defense. Be prepared for both two-legged and four-legged threats in the woods, and always be aware of your surroundings. Thanks for tuning in, and let's hope we never need to use these guns—but it’s best to be prepared!
