I recently gave this matter some serious thought. I've always carried a handgun afield, but which one would be "best" in most circumstances for
me.............
1) Identify the purpose you want a gun for.
2) Make sure you gun can actually
handle that purpose!
In my view, having a NAA mini-revolver for "survival" or "defense" use won't cut it. I remember an article in Handguns magazine some years about where the writer was extolling the virtues of a 2" snubby .38 for a "trailgun."............. um, ok.
The gun needs to perform the function for which you brought it.
Keeping #1 and #2 in mind, I further concluded that the gun needed to be small enough to conceal comfortably.
Also, the gun needed to possess sufficient power.
Additionally, I decided that high capacity is important. Why high capacity? Because you could easily find yourself miles from your camp or vehicle where your extra ammo is.
The primary reason I carry a gun afield is for protection from 2-legged snakes, but there is also the wild animal possibility. I recently learned that there are black bear in the woods I frequent, along with wild boars and such. While I would place a wild animal attack in the "not likely" category, it makes sense to me to have enough power should it come to pass.
So, combining all the the above, the best answer, for ME, is a Glock Model 20 in 10mm. It holds 15+ 1, add two easy to carry reloads and I got 46 rds to get me back to camp. Handloaded ammo brings the 10mm back up to the power level I require, without being too much to handle. (165 Gold Dot @ 1350 fps) It's easily and comfortably concealed in a KyTac BraveHeart holster, so I can maintain a low profile if need be.
On those occasions when I go afield with a specific purpose, then the Glock 20 may be exchanged for a gun more appropriate to the intended purpose, but for a "general woods gun," the G-20 has it covered.
.
Chris
I'm also big enough that recoil isn't a problem (at least up to 44 mag level).
