Personally not everyone should carry. We could end up with shot hikers. I agree with Eliteoomph's sentiments about enforcing your will onto wildlife and agree that for the most part you will be able to control through your actions the behavior of said animals. I have been through encounters with black bears and coyotes with these attitudes in mind and have never stood down. I do not agree with other sentiments of taking dogs that are not 100% trained to act without instruction from their master, that includes making any sounds. These types of animals and their actions can only encourage an otherwise curious animal to attack what they view as possible prey. With smart skills and backpacking you can avoid these situations without the need for additional firepower.
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