Beachbum
Bearcat
I have been considering buying a revolver for backwoods protection. I am an Assistant Scoutmaster and we camp, canoe and backpack primarily in Florida but with periodic trips to the Smoky Mountains in GA. Don't tell the BSA because they frown on such things but as a leader, I doubt I'm alone in preferring to go armed into the outdoors.
The biggest concern in Florida is gators, snakes and bears. The bears around here are far from grizzlies and most gators are under 10 feet. I was wondering what caliber would be necessary for the job. I have considered 44 mag/44 spl but wonder if 45 colt or .357 mag would do.
As a backpacker, weight is a consideration and .357's come in a much lighter package than 44's. I have handled a Taurus Judge and was impressed by the light weight and the .410 shotshell option but I'm not sure if the .45 Colt would do the job on local predators, particularly the Georgia bears.
I'd appreciate any opinions and am interested in comparing/contrasting Ruger's guns with others.
The biggest concern in Florida is gators, snakes and bears. The bears around here are far from grizzlies and most gators are under 10 feet. I was wondering what caliber would be necessary for the job. I have considered 44 mag/44 spl but wonder if 45 colt or .357 mag would do.
As a backpacker, weight is a consideration and .357's come in a much lighter package than 44's. I have handled a Taurus Judge and was impressed by the light weight and the .410 shotshell option but I'm not sure if the .45 Colt would do the job on local predators, particularly the Georgia bears.
I'd appreciate any opinions and am interested in comparing/contrasting Ruger's guns with others.