You make an excellent point and one that really strikes home for me. I have enjoyed shooting sports all my life and appreciated all the free ammo when I got my LEO commission and the periodic sessions afterward. I am probably better trained than the average.

But, I am rusty, and I haven't shot intensively in years. I am almost certainly better off with spray than with bullets,and it is a lot cheaper, too. 357 Magnum is considered marginal for bear defense, and I am sure I could spend $1000 or more on a more suitable handgun. Bear spray is what - 30 to 50 bucks? I could carry my 12 gauge with slugs or buckshot, but that is heavier and more cumbersome than a spray canister.

So, the next time I am in serious bear country (like Alaska) I will pack chemicals instead of lead. When I leave, I can always trade unused canisters for water (cool, clear water!)....