Well, can't say I've been to Alaska, although I'd love to go sometime.

A relative of mine used to work there in the summers, and still goes back to hunt every year with friends. He made sure to take a shotgun (Remington 870) for "bears", in addition to whatever rifle choice for hunting moose.

Never heard him talk about carrying a pistol for bears!

I've also heard him mention how black bears are more predatory and dangerous. The USFS here rents out portable electric fences for folks rafting the various rivers. The black bears apparently have a thing for coolers full of wine and cheese. <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />