I've been very happy with my Glock 23 (full size .40). A lot of people think the full size glocks are too big, but if you are just using it at the range and hiking the size shouldn't be a problem, and I like the extra capacity, bullet speed, and stability that comes with a larger handgun.

It's definitely a good idea to hold and dry fire some guns to get a feel for what you like. If you know anyone with a handgun, see if they'll take you shooting. A lot of ranges also rent guns for a reasonable fee, so that can be a good way to try out different firearms. For example: I shoot great with my glock, but I've shot 2 different 1911s and found that they are uncomfortable in my hand, don't point naturally, and I shoot terribly with them. Though I haven't shot them, I found the S&W M&P and the Walther P99 to be very comfortable guns. The H&K USP pistols I've handled have been well made, but only moderately comfy in my hand.

 

I have a P2000 in 9mm form. Wife and I both love it.

 

:rofl: at buying a handgun for bear protection.

 

yea yea.

Ok, I've got some bullets that read R-P 30-06 SPRG, could that stop a bear?

 

a baby bear?

 

maybe then mommy won't have to worry about protecting anything and we can go our own ways.

hah

Gain. The weight of the actual bullet?

I would assume a higher grain would travel slower but make a bigger hole?

 

Higher grain gives more velocity I believe. More black powder...more thrust/bang

 

Ahem... May I present to you, the .600 Nitro Express Revolver.

 

is that the one that shoots shotgun slugs? or is this a different one?

 

Different and much more powerful.

There are .454 and .500 snubbies that were designed for hikers as bear protection.