Im up at the ranch this morning feeding the horses. It was cool with a dense fog, the animals quietly munching grass as I performed that most romantic cowboy chore-mucking out the stalls. Suddenly the dogs exploded into the orchards barking, only to come tearing back. Being less intelligent, I went to investigate. It was a black bear, calmly eating avocados and ground squirrels. They wander down from the Sespe wilderness, relocation center for all the Park System's problem bears. I was wearing a brand new AF survival knife I received from Barry( I have the idea of thoroughly reviewing issue knives.) O.K. I admit it! I lashed that knife to a nearby branch as I backed out. The bear finally caught my scent, woofed twice and lumbered off. I must reiterate! Large animals attacks are rare and knives to precious to become spearpoints. Trust me on this! Would a 150lb bear eating avocados make the cover of OUTDOOR LIFE?

C'mon Chris, just grin and..............(too painful to write!)<br><br>Peanut