your preference, bear spray or a gun?

If given the choice, in a situation where a bear was attacking I'd rather have a 12 gauge shooting slugs or a high-power rifle (.30-06, .45-70, etc...) than the bear spray. Spray may or may not work. A heavy bullet to the bear's head or shoulder will work.

I would say bear spray, unless you're willing to carry something powerful enough to drop it on the spot- say, an S&W .500.

The spray would cause it more pain than a 'normal' gun would, while not actually doing any permanent damage. Remember, animals' noses are many more times sensitive than ours too, I'm sure if the spray hurts us, it would really hurt the bear!

I agree with carrying both, especially in settled areas where big Brown bears are eyeing dumpsters and parked cars. Armed with only pepper spray, there is too much chance an annoyed bear will eat you. Don't feed the bears! Regards, Larry.

according to stats, bear spray has a higher rate of driving away a bear with one shot. however if you really need to stop it bear spray will only piss it off. A gun will kill it.

personally I'd go with a gun. You gotta stop it you gotta stop it, pepper spray won't

Have never used a spray.

Have only needed to stop one on a single occasion in over 40 years.

Used a .45LC, down the throat at about 20 feet. Made good stew and nice rug!

The gun. I think it would protect you the most. I wouldnt trust some spay.

i would have to go with my 12 gauge shotgun with a box of slugs