In a test conducted in the Bozeman, Montana region, the effectiveness of different handgun types against bear attacks was examined. The test evaluated both semi-automatic pistols and revolvers of various calibers in an attack simulation lasting approximately 2 seconds.
Conducted by a team of experts in training, tactics, and survival, the study aimed to evaluate how fast and accurately gun users could shoot in a real bear attack scenario.
Test Execution
In the simulation, a mechanical bear target moved rapidly toward the shooters in less than 2 seconds. During the tests, the following were tested in succession:
- 10mm semi-automatic pistols,
- .44 Magnum long and short-barreled revolvers,
- Various platforms equipped with new generation G9 ammunition.
Although shooters knew the bear would approach, draw speed and accuracy rates were measured in an environment mimicking “real attack stress.”
Semi-Automatic Pistol Results
10mm semi-automatic platforms stood out in the simulation due to low recoil and high fire capacity. In tests conducted with Glock 20 and Springfield XD models, shooters:
- Were able to achieve multiple hits on the target in a short time.
- Maintained control easier due to lighter recoil.
- Achieved a high hit rate in critical zones.
Although red dot sights were used in some trials, it was observed that intuitive shooting was more effective at close range.
.44 Magnum Revolver Performance
In tests conducted with the Colt Anaconda and other .44 Magnum models:
- Due to high recoil, only a single hit could be achieved in most trials.
- It was determined that fast holster draws were difficult with long-barreled models.
- Draw time decreased and success rates increased with short-barreled .44 Magnum models.
It was emphasized that shots to the skull did not yield reliable results for bears; the most effective areas were under the chin and the rib cage.
The penetration power of copper-solid high-velocity bullets in G9’s .44 Magnum ammunition drew attention.
Ammunition and Optic System Comparisons
- G9 10mm and .44 Magnum ammunition gave successful results in terms of speed and penetrating power.
- Red dot optics did not create an advantage in target acquisition due to the extremely short duration of the test.
- It was noted that at close range, during sudden attacks, users tended to engage in “intuitive shooting.”
Stress Factor Affects Results
It was stated that during the simulation, even the sound made by the mechanical target as it approached affected the shooters’ perception.
Training officials noted that adrenaline would be much higher in a real bear attack, therefore, the following skills must be developed through professional training:
- Weapon handling,
- Fast draw techniques,
- Recoil control,
- Reflexive shooting capability at critical points.
Evaluation
According to the general results:
- Semi-automatic 10mm pistols provide an advantage at close range with low recoil and high accuracy potential.
- .44 Magnum revolvers, despite having high stopping power, contain limitations in practical use due to recoil and draw speed.
- Regardless of the weapon type, regular and professional training decisively increases the chance of survival in high-stress events like bear attacks.