Any ideas on my first handgun. (help)

[Hazcat]

I ABSO-FRIGGIN-LUTELY agree with a 6 inch revolver.  I'm just not sure a 44mag is gonna stop a BAB (big assed bear). That is why I mentioned the .454 that can also shoot .45 colt.  Get a lever gun to match and yer covered for anything.  Revolvers are just 'bullet proof' when it comes to 'gotta go BANG NOW!  Look at the Rugers (whatever caliber ya decide on) in either the Alaskan, Super Redhawk or the Super Blackhawk.  Darn things are built like a tank.

[Timothy]

A Public Service Announcement concerning bears...

"Due to the frequency of human-bear encounters, the B.C. Fish and Wildlife Branch is advising hikers, hunters, fishermen and any persons that use the out of doors in a recreational or work related function to take extra precautions while in the field.

We advise the outdoorsman to wear little noisy bells on clothing so as to give advanced warning to any bears that might be close by so you don’t take them by surprise.

We also advise anyone using the out-f-doors to carry “Pepper Spray” with him is case of an encounter with a bear.

Outdoorsmen should also be on the watch for fresh bear activity, and be able to tell the difference between black bear feces and grizzly bear feces.  Black bear feces is smaller and contains lots of berries and squirrel fur.  Grizzly bear shit has bells in it and smells like pepper."

 

couldn't help it....

[PegLeg45]

Regardless of caliber, I'd go with a DA revolver like the Super Redhawk. The reasoning behind this is that unless you are well practiced with it, in a high stress situation (such as may arise in Alaska = BEAR!!!)....the DA would be easier to get into action.

Like others have said, since you have some shooting experience, it shouldn't be a hard jump to a large caliber.... with some dedicated practice.

If funds permit, I would still get a .22lr to accompany the big bore gun........ for the sake of trigger time and practice expense.

[Big Frank]

Here's the one I dream about. A 5.5" Ruger Redhawk .44 Magnum.

[BAC]

Here's the one I dream about. A 5.5" Ruger Redhawk .44 Magnum.

Nice!  I'll take one, too.

[Sponsor]

[twyacht]

All good advice. Also consider that in Alaska, extreme cold wind and weather effects gun oils and "traditional" lubricants...

I know its here somewhere, but there are plenty of members that live in "the great white north" that can recommend a cold weather lube.

It's important,...guns can gum up and freeze in extreme cold with the wrong lube.

Nice starter set:

+1 on a good 12g.
+1 on a good 4 or 6" revolver (.357 minimum) 4" revo's holster nicely when your bundled up like the Michelin Tire Man..
+1 on a lever action carbine that shoots the same pistol rd.
+1 on a good cold weather lube.

Contact a gun club/range/store in the area your moving, probably have a web site, and review the inventory.
Learn about reloading, you'll have lots of time in the dark and cold, or endless daylight and cold, to make your own bullets.

[mooresauce34]

Hey guys thanks for the ideas I went to the shop today and looked at a lot and i think I settled on a tarus 44 magnum with a 4 inch barrel

[jaybet]

That should do the job. Shoot the hell out of it.

[alfsauve]

Good choice.   Now find an inexpensive source of ammo and run a lot of rounds through it.  (100s)   You might want to do some of that practice with .44spl rounds.

[AE3007H1]

44 mag? Why didn't you get something with some power?

Hahaha just kidding, great choice.  You might want to invest in a few speed loaders.   Don't write off the possibilities of loading your own ammo.  That is a great caliber to reload.  You can save tons of money , you can tailor your loads for your specific needs.  You can get into an entry level reloading kit    very cheap.  not hard to learn either.

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