Even in the backcountry, threats on both four legs and two abound. If someone were to ask you what your preferred firearm would be when traversing the wilderness, many would opt for their trusty hunting rifle or shotgun. While those choices may very well get the job done, when it comes to portability and concealability, nothing gets the job done like a reliable semi-auto handgun or revolver. Whether it be ease of carry, accessibility, or several other attributes, the right sidearm can mean the difference between making it to the next trailhead unscathed or a much less favorable outcome. Read on as we take a closer look at some of our top handgun picks when it comes to backcountry defense.
Tisas 1911 C10 Yukon
Stepping away from a classic .45 ACP chambering, the Tisas 1911 C10 Yukon is chambered in 10mm. This round is capable of taking down even the largest of North American game, such as a mother grizzly protecting her cubs. This semi-automatic handgun sports a Cerakote finish on its frame and slide, protecting it against the elements should you find yourself in the middle of a rainstorm.
An overall length just shy of 8” and a width of 1.41” keep the Yukon slim enough to carry in the waistband, while it can also be just as easily carried outside the waistband or strapped to your pack. The Ed Brown Bobtail Cut frame keeps things comfortable in the hand, with a texturized grip to keep you steady, even if your palms are sweaty when the adrenaline kicks in. For more information, visit tisasusa.com.
Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan
If you are looking to add a backup or even primary carry gun to your kit and are also a lover of all things wheelgun, look no further than the Ruger Super Redhawk Alaskan. While many outdoorsmen may gravitate towards the .44 Rem. Mag. chambering, this revolver is also offered in .454 Casull as well as 480 Remington. Packing a whopping amount of firepower into a small footprint, this model is prized for its compact nature. With a capacity of six rounds, the Super Redhawk Alaskan weighs 45 oz. and is kept secure in your hands via its Hogue Tamer Monogrip. For more information, visit ruger.com.
Glock G20 Gen 5 MOS
For Glock fans who are looking for a bit more firepower than their everyday carry 9mm, there is the Glock 20 Gen 5 MOS. This semi-auto 10mm has a 15-round magazine capacity, ensuring you are plenty prepared should something go bump in the night. The G20 features a reversible magazine catch and an ambidextrous slide stop lever. Adding to the customization of this model is Glock's Modular Backstrap System, allowing you to obtain just the right fit. Should you wish to forego the stock iron sights that come standard with each G20, customers now have the option to add an optic, equipping their new 10mm with modern reflex-sight capabilities. For more information, visit us.glock.com.
Magnum Research BFR
It stands for “biggest, finest revolver,” and this iteration of the BFR from Magnum Research comes chambered in .410, while retaining the capability to fire .45 Colt cartridges as well. This revolver is an effective tool for dispatching varmints and small game. Despite its hefty size and weight, the BFR is very manageable during the firing process due to its ergonomic grip and balanced design. The particular model pictured features a 10” barrel with countless options available if you choose to custom-create your own BFR through Magnum Research's custom shop. For more information, visit magnumresearch.com.
Bond Arms Snake Slayer
The Bond Arms Snake Slayer is a rugged, pocket-sized derringer that packs quite a punch for its unassuming size. This model is available in two different chamberings: .45 Colt/.410 or .357 Magnum/.38 Special. This gun caters to those needing to dispatch venomous snakes or even small game at relatively close distances.
One of the features that makes this model particularly desirable is that it is modular, meaning you can swap to additional barrels offered by Bond Arms to meet your unique needs, perhaps even swapping them out to custom-tailor your gun to the type of animals you may encounter. The Snake Slayer weighs in at 22 oz., providing enough heft to mitigate some felt recoil, yet light enough to accompany you on a hike without weighing you down. For more information, visit bondarms.com.
Taurus Raging Hunter
While the Taurus Raging Hunter certainly doesn’t jump out as something that you’d carry concealed, we felt it necessary to include it as it could easily be carried in the backcountry with the help of a specialized holster to confidently secure the gun's large format. This revolver is chambered in .460 S&W, a whopping centerfire pistol round guaranteed to protect not only your safety, but to provide dinner should you rely upon it for hunting purposes while afield.
This Raging Hunter features factory-tuned porting and a specially designed gas expansion chamber that minimizes muzzle flip and gets you back on target quickly after each shot. Capable of tackling the largest game the U.S. has to offer, users should feel confident carrying it into the deepest, wildest corners of the backcountry. For more information, visit taurususa.com.
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