Is Bear Spray Essential for Black Bear Encounters?

Camping
21

Having bear spray is great, but I still feel cautious. Has anyone had an encounter where bear spray worked successfully? Just looking for some peace of mind.

22

Yes, I did! I encountered a black bear while hiking, and I followed the advice: sprayed it when it got within 20 feet. The bear turned and ran! It was terrifying but effective.

6 Likes
23

Wow! That sounds intense! What do you recommend doing right after using bear spray? Should you back away cautiously?

24

Definitely back away slowly. Give the bear some space to leave the area. Avoid direct eye contact, and donā€™t turn your back until youā€™re at a safe distance.

25

I wonder if some people overestimate their safety with bear spray. Do you think itā€™s essential to also know how to handle a bear if it gets too close?

26

Thatā€™s a valid point, udayle. While bear spray is important, being knowledgeable about bear behavior can help a great deal in reducing encounters too.

3 Likes
27

I guess itā€™s really about being prepared! Iā€™ll be carrying my can of pepper spray tooā€”canā€™t be too cautious, right? Just donā€™t mix them up!

28

I think bear spray is absolutely essential for anyone hiking in bear country! Iā€™ve used several brands and find that size, spray distance, and shelf life really matter. I prefer containers that can spray at least 30 feet.

1 Like
29

Absolutely! I once encountered a black bear while hiking, and having bear spray gave me peace of mind. I used Counter Assault, which has a great spray distance!
Anyone else found a brand that worked well?

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30

I totally agree with both of you. Bear spray is a must! Iā€™ve used Mace for bears, but heard that its shelf life isnā€™t great. Can anyone else provide insight into shelf life?

31

Great question! The shelf life of most bear sprays is about 3-4 years if stored properly. I always check mine before heading out!

32

Iā€™ve used Frontiersman bear spray and was really impressed by its range! It sprayed at least 30 feet. However, Iā€™d love to hear if anyoneā€™s had a bad experience with a specific brand.

33

I tried Bear Deterrent once and it didnā€™t spray well at all! I was really disappointed. Maybe I just got a bad can, but that was my experience.

34

I think factoring in the size is important if you are backpacking. My brother has a lighter can, which is easier to carry. Itā€™s called UDAP and seems to last long too.

8 Likes
35

Weight definitely matters! When youā€™re in the backcountry, every ounce counts. Just donā€™t compromise on the spray distance!

36

I remember hearing that a lot of people underestimate the power of bear spray. They think they can just shout or throw rocks, but thatā€™s not effective. Have you guys noticed a difference in effectiveness between brands?

37

I have noticed that some sprays have a stronger formula than others. But honestly, just having any kind of bear spray is better than none at all!

38

I just want to add some humor hereā€”if bear spray didnā€™t work, it might just become the worst cologne ever! I imagine bears running away from that awful smell! :joy:

39

Haha! Thatā€™s a great point! Just imagine, every time you go out, youā€™d smell like a ā€˜bear threatā€™. But for real, itā€™s great to have an effective deterrent with you!