The bear facts

I have never been bitten by a bear, but I have been bitten twice by golden retriever dogs, and yes, it hurts and takes a long time to heal. So whenever I come across a bear video, I'll take a look.

The problem with bear protection from black bears compared to grizzlies is the head, which is pretty important since that's what will be chasing you. A black bear skull is more blunt, while a grizzly is tapered like a wedge. Any hunter knows it doesn't take much to deflect a bullet. There have been studies of bear attacks where firearms are used and failed because the bullet just bounced off the skull.

I personally would save a few bullets in case you are attacked. While a large bear is on top of you, any shot into the head from underneath the bear has fewer obstacles.

The bear in the photo charged at me while checking a bait station but ran when he realized I was a human. This happened so fast that I never considered using bear spray; there just wasn't enough time to use both. I will still carry spray for stray dogs and any two-legged assholes.