A Chambered Round: Son Saves Father from Charging Grizzly Bear with Glock 20 Ready To Go

Grizzly bear encounters are a terrifying reality for hunters in regions like Wyoming. In a heart-stopping tale of survival, Vince and Garrett Kalkowski, a father-son duo from Cody, Wyoming, narrowly escaped a charging grizzly during a hunting trip near Meeteetse. The younger Kalkowski’s quick thinking and a Glock 20 proved to be the difference between life and death. Here’s how it all unfolded.

A Routine Hunt Turns Perilous

Hunting is more than a hobby for Vince and Garrett Kalkowski – it’s a tradition. On October 3rd, the two set out on what they thought would be an ordinary day in the Wyoming wilderness. Garrett had already filled his elk tag, but Vince was still hoping to spot a bull elk on a ridge known for its ideal terrain.

According to KTVQ News reporter Isabel Spatz, everything seemed peaceful as they climbed higher into the woods. Garrett even stopped to take a video of the scenery. Moments later, the tranquility was shattered by the unmistakable sound of snapping branches.

The Charge

In a split second, the Kalkowskis’ lives were upended. A grizzly bear emerged from the woods, charging toward them with ears pinned back and body low to the ground. Garrett described the bear’s determined charge to Spatz: “She was not playing around. She had a mission.”

Only four yards separated the hunters from the predator – a distance that left no room for hesitation. Vince, paralyzed by the shock of the moment, could only watch as his son sprang into action.

Garrett’s Quick Reaction

Garrett’s Glock 20, chambered with a 10mm round, was ready. Earlier in the year, he had decided to carry with a round chambered, a decision that would prove critical. In an interview with Spatz, Garrett said, “It was boom, boom, boom, as fast as I could pull that trigger.”

The young hunter fired repeatedly, each shot a desperate attempt to stop the charging bear. The first few bullets hit their mark, and the bear tumbled backward into the woods. Both men stood in stunned silence, unable to fully process what had just occurred.

A Life-Saving Decision

Reflecting on the encounter, Vince admitted that he had initially been uneasy about Garrett carrying with a round chambered. “We kind of got into a debate,” Vince told Spatz. “I’m like, ‘man, I don’t know,’ but Garrett made his own decision.” After witnessing his son’s decisive action, Vince is now a convert. “I can tell you now that I do too,” he added.

Surreal Aftermath

Even a month later, Vince and Garrett are still processing the encounter. Garrett, speaking to KTVQ, shared how he and his father often reflect on the “what-ifs” of that day. “Thankfully, it happened the way it happened,” Garrett said, expressing gratitude for his preparation and presence of mind.

Chuke, host of Chuke’s Outdoor Adventures, applauded Garrett’s skill and credited his use of the Glock 20 for the successful outcome. “His shots were good, and they took down a grizzly bear that was charging them,” Chuke remarked in his coverage of the incident.

The Role of the Glock 20

Chuke emphasized the importance of choosing the right tools for bear defense. He highlighted the effectiveness of the Glock 20, which has gained a reputation among hunters for its reliability and power. “I know I keep talking about these different narratives, but this is a perfect example of why firearms are essential in bear country,” he stated.

Chuke also pointed out the debate between bear spray and firearms. While bear spray can be effective in some situations, he stressed that firearms, particularly when used with skill, provide a critical line of defense.

Rising Grizzly Encounters

This incident is part of a troubling trend of increased bear attacks in the lower 48 states. Chuke, who frequently reports on bear encounters, noted that hunters in Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana have faced a spike in grizzly aggression. “Every weekend, there’s a new attack,” he said, expressing concern over the growing frequency of these dangerous encounters.

A separate report by Chuke highlighted similar incidents in Idaho, where hunters narrowly escaped grizzlies. “Something’s going on down there,” he observed, speculating that both increased bear populations and stricter hunting regulations may be contributing factors.

Grizzlies and Human Safety

The Kalkowskis’ close call serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with hunting in bear country. Garrett, speaking to KTVQ, emphasized the importance of preparation: “Know your equipment, know how to use it, and know how to react quick.” His advice resonates deeply, especially for hunters in areas with active bear populations.

Courage and Conservation

It’s remarkable to see Garrett’s composure under such extreme pressure. His ability to act decisively, despite the chaos, speaks volumes about his training and instincts. Vince’s transformation in his approach to firearm safety adds an extra layer of poignancy to the story – proof that even experienced hunters can learn and adapt.

This tale also highlights a broader issue: the balance between wildlife conservation and human safety. As grizzly populations grow and encounters become more frequent, it’s clear that coexistence will require careful management and education.

The Unpredictability of the Wilderness

The Kalkowskis’ story is more than just an adrenaline-filled tale of survival – it’s a powerful reminder of the wilderness’s unpredictability. Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts alike can draw valuable lessons from their experience: respect nature, prepare thoroughly, and never underestimate the importance of a chambered round.

In the end, it was Garrett’s preparation and determination that saved the day, proving once again that even in the face of nature’s fiercest challenges, quick thinking and the right tools can make all the difference.