best sidearm for hunting / hiking?

[JCA]

Have been a pistol guy to date, but looking into revolvers to add to the collection. From what I've read, my .45 autos might not be enough for bears and such while hunting/hiking, and that .357 mag should be minimum. Would appreciate any inputs and experience on sidearm choices for this purpose and that would be reasonably comfortable to carry. Will the snubbie .357's generally do the trick, or should I really be looking for bigger frame in .44 mag or bigger? Experiences with Smith? Ruger? Tauraus? Thanks.

[Jdog]

I've always been partial to the Ruger alaskan
(they have a new redhawk out for this year also)

[SDGlock23]

Ruger Redhawk .45 Colt. Or if you dig S&W, the 625 Mountain Gun is a good one too, oh, and just have to get one in .45 Colt.

[Ak.Hiker]

If you like small 357's check out the Ruger SP 101 with the 3 1/16 inch barrel. The SP 101 is tough enough to handle just about any sane 357 load you can find. Loaded with the Buffalo Bore 180 grain hard cast load it packs a good punch. The 180 hard cast is my favorite load in my Ruger if I carry it in the field. If you want to stick with the 45 auto try out the 230 flat point FMJ load from Double Tap or Buffalo Bore. These should be good field loads for the old 45.

[Berto]

Besides Cougar, Black Bear or a really pissed bull Elk, I'd be most worried about other people.
.45acp would be plenty.