I know it been asked before but what do you recommend for a side arm in the woods? I have been looking at the Taurus judge or Smith and Wession governor.I like the Taurus lite with the 4" barrel.It looks like they make new loads for these 2 gun that have plenty of power.
The 410/45 handgun craze has never impressed me. Here is a field test done on the judge
http://www.theboxotruth.com/docs/bot41.htm
I personally think they are overrated. Ive got a derringer in that caliber and you can't hit anything at 7'. The 45 bullet hits the paper sideways
Only reason I carry a pistol is for crazy crackheads. Aint no critter out there gonna get you. Except a skunkape or chupacabra maybe
I carry my S&W 1911 .45 with match grade barrel & hollow points, just in case I get a close range shot (less than 50yds) at a critter, so I can say I have taken game with my pistol.
I would say you might need one farther north in bear country, but before you shoot a bear, you better have exhausted all efforst to get away. The Stand your ground rule does not apply to protected species of critters. LOL
for real! here in Fla you would likely serve less time for shooting a human than a panther or black bear.handguns are nice for going in to check/fill cameras and feeders,primarily for snakes. if carrying a shotgun or open sighted rifle (lever), I see no need to carry the extra wt. for handgun choices a 38 special lightweight snub nose is OK for snakes and easy to carry but that's about it. a beater 357 revolver with 2 3/4"-4" bbl is a real good choice for a trail gun. the 45 acp is a good one also. the judge's are too big imo for what you get. a hammer-less Ruger sp101 is an excellent/strong trail or self defense gun. plenty of others will work if you prefer.
i will probly carry my .40 as my sidearm this year.
