[aa1911]

like a M44 mosin? or some other military rifle... heh heh, all I can say is good luck if you're down to a bayonet!

When I train with long guns, I always practice transition drills; when the primary goes down either jam or out of ammo, I control it down with my off hand while drawing my sidearm, letting the long gun hang from it's sling. But the M1A I use is pretty reliable, has yet to jam once on me except for one batch of bad reloads I made years ago, that was the ammo's fault (my fault, sized them incorrectly).

I lived in NC for a while, had to get the pistol permit from the county sheriff just to buy a handgun, kinda sucks. Here in WA, I just walk in with me CCW and walk out with a handgun, too easy.

A good rifle with multiple round capability of any kind bolt, semi, whatever, should keep you out of bear trouble. Or a solid hit from my .458 single shot, that will do the trick.

I also use the shotgun with slugs if I'm primarily out for grouse, keep a slug or OOO buck loaded last in the tube, with 2 birdshot loads first. If I see a bear I just have to rack it twice and dust him, then reload. Or just unload all three on him.