I was only 'charged' once by a Kodiak while we recovered a heart attack vicim ( town butcher and quess what his J3 was full of?)I had a .375 H&H already shouldered and ready to fire. I did, but only to get his attention. The distance that bear covered in a few seconds got mine. A secure holster is necessary, but if you meet by suprise Old Ehpraim on the trail your hand better be your carry rig.