Firearms are a frequent topic on the forum . I own the latest incarnation of my first "1000 shot Red Ryder Daisy air rifle with compass in the stock; you'll shoot your eye out Chris, NO!" While they are discussed by Doug, required carry in some locals ( Alaska and the Canadian bush;) It is generally agreed they are not always necessary or needed in most situations. We have this image of dropping a charging grizzly or carrying a pig quarter back to the cave. Truth is, attacks are rare. The higher mammals ( especially carnivores) have highly variable individual personalities ( sound like a rather nasty species that is bipedal?) This is how we domesticated a few suitable wolves into the dog. Bears are NOT unpredictable. Individual behavior is. This attitude is why bears worldwide are in trouble, not the population of campers, hunters and day hikers.So, if you pack a firearm for survival thats fine and prudent. Figuring out which end the hurt comes out and when it is appropriate is a part of the self education we practice here.