We don't have griz around here. Well there are some in the North Cascades but I rarely get into their territory. We do have black bear and I will frequent their territory on a regular basis. I have a conceal carry permit but prefer to wear a side arm on my hip in full view. I have nothing to hide. My side arm of choice is usually a stainless .357 magnum with a ported barrel. I like this gun because of the ported barrel it is very loud and I will use it to "scare" blackie away. If a discharge of the weapon doesn't scare him then the "57" has enough snot to drop a black bear. I also like the stainless wheel gun because I can drop it into the mud, rinse it off in the river and start shooting. My second weapon of choice to carry when venturing into the back country is a Kimber 1911.