A friend of mine working for the USFWS told me he was issued a 12 ga pump shotgun. He was required to carry the gun loaded with a rubber-bullet load in the chamber and slugs in the magazine. I agree with 3sixbits, and not just in Alaska. Killing bears (other than hunting) in loads of trouble which is well worth avoiding *if possible*. The potential for criminal charges is all too real. Take care, Tom