My new bear defense pistol

I had the pleasure of celebrating Easter weekend by taking my new Glock 20 to the Matanuska Valley Sportsman’s Indoor Range and putting a box of shells through it. I acquired the new pistol last fall and finally had an opportunity to take it for a spin. It’ll be my new sidearm this year for hunting, fishing and berry picking.

I previously carried a Ruger Super Redhawk chambered in .44 Magnum with a 7.5” barrel. It wasn’t necessarily a fun revolver to pack around on my chest, but it was my best option out of the revolvers and pistols I had owned. It was heavy and bulky and sat a bit awkward with a pack on or stuffed into my waders. I was always glad to have it, but dreaded wearing it, even with my quality Diamond D Leather holster.

Looking for something a bit more compact and that could still pack a punch, I opted for the 10mm. I also own a .375 Magnum revolver, but found that my specific model didn’t like the hot bear rounds that I would carry it for. The 10mm was my next choice, and I couldn’t help but turn towards the Glock for its reliability and dependability. I didn’t want something too small in the hand, like the Glock 29, because I was afraid of the snappiness of a hot round in a small pistol. The 20 felt good, a bit heavy and a bit blocky, but definitely not as unwieldy as my .44.

The wife and I drove to Palmer on Saturday to be there when the range opened. It was my first time in their facility. I had written a piece on them and the programs they offer in the past, but had never been inside myself. I was impressed by the seriousness and safety the range officers (ROs) took and sat through a quick briefing for first time users. Many of the other shooters there were young couples like ourselves that were looking to enjoy an afternoon spending time together.

After finishing our briefing, I donned my goggles and squished in my earplugs. Being that I’m still recovering from a ruptured ear drum, I opted to put a pair of earmuffs over the top. Emily stayed back in the front room and I stepped up to a lane. I proceeded to shoot an entire box over the next 25 minutes as I took time to really get a feel for the gun. It felt good in my hand, heavier than my compact 9mm and not as snappy because of it. I grouped fairly decently for my first time shooting a 10mm.

I plan to go back once per week to get more familiar with my new 10mm as I prepare for my bear hunt in May. I have only good things to say about the Matanuska Valley Sportsman’s Range and I look forward to going back.