[pct-l] Weapons on the trail?

[Slyatpct@xxxxxxx (Slyatpct@xxxxxxx)]

--
[ Picked text/plain from multipart/alternative ]

The best defense against a bear attack is to hike with others, especially
those that can't run as fast.

Sly


> I know this will raise eyebrows but try to understand:  I wouldn't expect a
> hiker who knows he's allergic to bees to decide NOT to bring his adrenalin
> needle and instead leave it up to 'fate' whether or not bees would attack
> him.  Man and woman must take control of their fate.  Although rare, bear
> attacks do happen, especially on solo thru hikers.  I don't want to leave
> my fate out of my hands and would like to know from others what types of
> defenses they've thought about.  My latest thought is to carry a 20" curved
> machete sticking out of my bag.  I've heard people saying they were
> thinking about bringing a 45 magnum.  I've been a vegetarian all my life,
> have never killed an animal and the idea of hunting enrages me.  I just
> don't want to be stupid.  Every animal in the woods has their particular
> defenses, why shouldn't we?  Of course, let's use our best weapon, our
> brains, and not get into dicey situations in the first place.  but
> sometimes it's simply beyond our control.  If we really are using our
> brains we would recognize this and do something about it
>
> Anyone have some idea for weapons?  Machetes might work when attacked by a
> bear if you keep your panic down, (dont turn your back and certainly dont
> run) and strike carefully, forcefully at the head and neck.
>
> Any other thoughts?  Bear spray doesn't seem to work.
>
> any advice is welcome.  I'm not looking for an argument, just some good
> ideas and ways to ACTIVELY protect myself.