Originally Posted by Brian Dudley (Post 283449)

I normally carry a sidearm when deer hunting. But never did think of it when upland hunting. I suppose it is not a bad idea.

Yesterday a hunting companion kicked up a bedded down doe and almost got run over by it when it took off. Not that you would shoot a deer, but it goes to show that you never know what can happen out there.

My game vest has elastic sewn-in shell holders inside the front pockets. Holds 5 on each side. This gives me 10 shells that are secure. Spent shells can be replenished when trips back to the vehicle are made.

Originally Posted by Daniel Carter (Post 283518)

I have not found any of the mentioned critters have much resistance to my 20 ga., a moose in a grumpy mood is not been a problem yet just be still and they lose interest and wander off. Had a bear come tearing up to my son and I, confused as to where our scent was coming from, he had 4 loads of 6 pointed at his head at 6 ft. and turned on his heel and ran. Season was open and had the license but we did not need a bear.

Originally Posted by Gary Laudermilch (Post 283516)

I've been hunting grouse for over 50 years in country with porkys, skunks, coyotes, and bears. I've had many encounters with each and never once had the need for a sidearm. My dogs are trained to stay away from everything except birds. Actually, turkeys cause me more grief than anything else. I'm with Phil in that I don't carry any more than I have to, not even toilet paper. Leaves serve that purpose quite well:)

Originally Posted by Gary Laudermilch (Post 283516)

I've been hunting grouse for over 50 years in country with porkys, skunks, coyotes, and bears. I've had many encounters with each and never once had the need for a sidearm. My dogs are trained to stay away from everything except birds. Actually, turkeys cause me more grief than anything else. I'm with Phil in that I don't carry any more than I have to, not even toilet paper. Leaves serve that purpose quite well:)