Bear DEFENSE vs. bear HUNT
I keep coming back to the difference between a proper arm for defense against bear, as opposed to one for hunting bear. If my object was to locate and kill a brown bear, under a variety of conditions, I'd probably use my .375 H&H, or .35 Whelen. Each wears a good optical sight, and I'd be set to make a good shot out beyond 200 yards.
If just going about other business and wanting a defensive arm, I'd be more likely to carry my Marlin .45-70 Guide Gun or my 20" Remington 1100 loaded with Brenneke slugs. Each has iron sights, is lighter and more compact than the hunting guns, and can make repeat shots more quickly. And yes, I'd pack a heavy sidearm as well, if only for added confidence.
Disclaimer: The ONLY bear I ever killed was a large cinnamon black bear. It fell nicely to a single handloaded Sierra 165 gr. GameKing from my old Ruger .30'06.