The debate over the best defense against grizzly bear attacks is back in the spotlight after a recent encounter in Montana. According to Alaskan outdoorsman and Chuke from Chuke’s Outdoor Adventures, a shed hunter in north-central Montana shot and killed a charging grizzly bear with a pistol in what appears to be the first major grizzly-human conflict of 2024. Chuke, known for his no-nonsense commentary on bear defense and firearms, offered his take on the incident in a detailed video update – and he’s not shy about where he stands.
A Predicted Encounter Comes to Pass
Chuke had predicted the inevitability of an early-season bear attack just two weeks prior. In his words, “It’s bound to happen,” citing the increasing number of human-bear conflicts in the past few years, especially in spring and fall. He referenced last year’s “unprecedented” surge in attacks and stressed that anyone venturing into bear country during springtime should expect heightened risk.
This most recent case, confirmed by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP), involved a 250-pound female grizzly estimated to be around 13 years old. The bear reportedly charged a man hunting for shed antlers on a brushy hillside near Dupuyer, a rural community about 88 miles northwest of Great Falls. The man shot and killed the bear in self-defense and was unharmed in the encounter.
Media Coverage and the Firearm Narrative
Chuke did not hold back in criticizing mainstream media coverage of the event, noting that outlets often promote bear spray over firearms while downplaying or omitting crucial details about the defensive use of guns. He praised alternative outlets like Cowboy State Daily and Ammoland for providing more balanced reporting, especially when it comes to firearm-related self-defense cases.
Notably, FWP has not confirmed what type of firearm the hunter used. However, Chuke believes it was likely a pistol – possibly a 10mm or a .44 Magnum – given the nature of the encounter and the mobility required for shed hunting. “If anybody knows what caliber and model it was, please comment,” Chuke said, hoping someone might help fill in the blanks.
The Importance of Defense in Grizzly Country
Spring shed hunting season is a peak time for bear conflicts. As Chuke pointed out, shed hunting draws many people into the wilderness just as bears emerge from hibernation, hungry and territorial. The overlap often results in surprise encounters in remote, brush-covered areas.
Referencing conservationist Zack Key and Alaskan YouTuber Chuck from Alaska Ballistics, Chuke reiterated what he considers best practice: carry both bear spray and a firearm. “It’s cheap insurance,” he said, noting that either one can fail. If your bear spray runs out or gets blown back in your face by wind, as has happened in real incidents, your backup should be a reliable handgun.
Why Firearms Are Still Controversial
The use of guns for bear defense continues to stir controversy. Chuke shared stories of social media influencers pushing bear spray while rejecting the idea of killing bears. He voiced concern that some of these advocates might end up on the wrong side of a bear encounter one day.
Citing the work of Dean Weingarten of Ammoland, Chuke pointed to a database of cases where handguns successfully stopped bear attacks. Though dismissed by some critics, Chuke argued the evidence proves that handguns, when used properly, can and do save lives.
Choosing the Right Pistol for Bear Defense
Chuke also took time to discuss his preferred firearms for bear defense. His top pick? The Ruger Super Redhawk Toklat chambered in .454 Casull. With a 5-inch barrel and six rounds of bone-crushing power, Chuke believes it strikes a balance between firepower and portability.
He also recommends 10mm semi-automatic pistols for those who are more comfortable with faster follow-up shots. He showcased his Dan Wesson Razorback 1911 in 10mm, praising its accuracy and power despite its lower capacity compared to striker-fired options like Glocks or SIGs.
For those looking for a middle ground, Chuke mentioned the 460 Rowland conversion kit for pistols like the FNX-45 Tactical. The result? A semi-auto with nearly the power of a .44 Magnum and higher capacity, a serious contender for those unwilling to compromise.
Real-World Failures of Bear Spray
Chuke didn’t shy away from acknowledging the usefulness of bear spray in many cases, but he emphasized its shortcomings. From bears charging straight through a cloud of spray to pepper aerosol blowing into the defender’s own face due to wind, the failures are real.
“There have been several cases I documented where the bear blows right through a cloud of bear spray… and still eats,” he said bluntly. His argument isn’t to discard bear spray entirely, but rather to recognize its limitations and the importance of a backup plan.
The Problem With Big Revolvers
While Chuke is a fan of revolvers like the .454 Casull, he acknowledges a critical downside – they’re hard to shoot quickly in a high-stress situation. “I’d be lucky to get two shots off at close range on a charging grizzly,” he admitted. That’s why semi-autos like the Glock 20 in 10mm have become so popular among those seeking both power and capacity.
Still, Chuke emphasized that any firearm is only as effective as the person using it. Practice, holster selection, and readiness are all part of the equation. He advised chest holsters for wilderness carry, as they’re easier to access when wearing a backpack or crossing rivers.
A Dangerous Spring Awakening
The spring season creates a perfect storm for dangerous bear encounters. Bears are hungry, humans are flooding the backcountry looking for antlers, and the vegetation is just thick enough to hide an approaching predator. Chuke emphasized that even experienced outdoorsmen can find themselves in real trouble if they’re not alert and properly equipped.
In this case, the hunter survived, but the bear didn’t. Chuke expressed mixed feelings about the outcome, noting that while he’s glad the man is safe, it’s always sad to see a bear killed, especially one that might have simply been acting out of hunger or surprise.
Regulatory Complications and Cultural Clashes
One point Chuke raised indirectly was the tension between modern outdoor recreation and wildlife rewilding efforts. As grizzlies reclaim habitat in places like the Missouri Breaks and prairie regions of Montana, the overlap with human activity is growing. The area where this attack occurred was once sparsely populated by bears, but no longer.
That creates a challenge for wildlife officials, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Fish and game agencies often hesitate to encourage firearm use, even in areas with known bear activity. But as Chuke and many others argue, reality on the ground can be unpredictable and violent.
Shed Hunting: A Risk Worth Taking?
Shed hunting has grown into a serious outdoor sport. Chuke recounted stories of people spending tens of thousands of dollars each season just to find antlers. While he admitted it’s not a big deal in Alaska, he understands the draw for many – it’s a great excuse to get outside and explore.
But the risks, especially in grizzly country, are very real. As Chuke put it, “You’ve got to be frosty.” Whether it’s a charging bear, rough terrain, or weather turning south, spring in the backcountry is not a place for complacency.
The Takeaway: Be Prepared for Anything
The recent Montana bear encounter is a stark reminder that preparation can mean the difference between life and death in the wild. Chuke’s message is clear: don’t trust any single defense method. Take bear spray and a firearm. Train with both. Know your terrain. And don’t let ideology override reality.
“There’s going to be more attacks. Mark my words,” Chuke warned in his closing remarks. Whether you agree with his tone or not, the facts remain – grizzly attacks are on the rise, and it’s up to each individual to be ready when it happens.
As this debate continues to unfold, one thing is certain: the wilderness doesn’t care about opinions. It responds to action. And when the brush moves and something big charges out of it, you won’t have time to second guess your choices.
Gary’s love for adventure and preparedness stems from his background as a former Army medic. Having served in remote locations around the world, he knows the importance of being ready for any situation, whether in the wilderness or urban environments. Gary’s practical medical expertise blends with his passion for outdoor survival, making him an expert in both emergency medical care and rugged, off-the-grid living. He writes to equip readers with the skills needed to stay safe and resilient in any scenario.