I really want to know what calibers people think are "special" enough to stand out.
Sir, I've only read the first page of responses, so if someone else has suggested this forgive me. First the 9 M/M auto is equal to the 38 special. One caliber that will serve many different roles, and do a decent job with most of those roles. If you are happy with the 9 M/M stay with that round.
If you wish to expand your handgun choices, I'll suggest a .357 Magnum revolver, which should safely fire a wide selection of ammo, everything from "mild to wild" loads.
I may be biased, note my screen name, but I believe that the threat to humans from bear attacks is greatly over worried about. Yes attacks can and do happen, but, sadly, I would be more worried about human attacks than bear attacks.
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