Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

BgBmBoo

BgBmBoo

Gunny Sergeant
Supporter
Full Member
Minuteman
Jul 8, 2008
1,237
152
Redding, CA. USA
www.radiodustcovers.com
#1
Ok guys.
Amber REALLY wants to go to Alaska, so I am trying to get a surprise trip planned to leave at the end of the month and stay 10 days.

So...where is the "best" place to start our adventure? I was thinking Sitka as I have heard it is beautiful this time of year and there are some nice places to do some day hikes,etc.

And that leads me to "what to do"? We are very much outdoors kinda folks so hiking,exploring,etc., would be on the top of the list.

Next question is for me mainly....I plan on bringing some guns...at least my normal CCW pistol and my hiking pistol (S&W TRR8 .357). I know that is not a bear gun, but it is the best I can do. I do not own anything larger.
I hold valid CCW permits for CA.,OR.,and AZ. and see that Alaska recognizes all of these. Any thing I should be aware of while CCWing other then the normal post office,federal buildings,etc.?

Any help would be great.

Take care,Stan
 
#2
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

All of my trips to Alaska have been easy going! However, if you are going to be in bear country I would suggest something with a little more punch. Ruger makes a nice 454 Casull Alaskan that I find good for the money. It packs a heck of a wallop, but it will do the job.
 
#4
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

I havent done it yet but i hear the ferry from Bellingham is a great eperience.
 
#6
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

Homer is neat but mostly centered around the ocean and pretty touristy. Sitka is a good area, lots to do. Kodiak is nice. It really has it all. Ocean, lakes, hiking trails, mountains... I am a bit partial though. Try not to be overly concerned about bears. I have dealt with tons of big bears and I only met one that was a possible serious threat.
 
#8
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

The peak fishing for sockeye salmon is about to hit really hard in the kenai. Go see some bears, get some salmon, take a trip up to Denali. There's some sea life tours down in seward that be a good trip if the weather's nice
smile.gif


Not sure about the reciprocity for CCW but for alaska residents we don't need permits to CCW or open carry.

When are you planning on coming up?? If you want I probably have an extra can of bear spray I can loan you to supplement your pistol.

 
#10
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: DANS40X</div><div class="ubbcode-body">A certain week of the month,no firearm will keep Amber 100% safe.

Whichever area you choose to visit in AK, see it by air,not by walking/hiking aimlessly. </div></div>

That is a myth. There has been no documented bear attack because of the time of the month. I would also completely disagree about the hiking.
 
#11
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

I dont know much about Alaska, but know some people who have been there a few times. They said the fly fishing guides that took them out recommended a 12ga with 00buck above a handgun, dont know if its true or not, but makes since to me.

No matter what, take as many pics as you can and post them for us. Alaska is really intriguing to me.
 
#12
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

When I lived in northern BC, and in the center of 'griz country' to boot, it was most prudent to carry a 12 ga. fed in the order of slug/ssg/ssg/slug/ssg/ssg.

I'm sure you see the pattern. If it really comes down to it, it's not the 'speed' of a bear that's the concern, it is the 'endurance'. They've tremendously oxygenated blood, and even when 'stopped' they can keep coming.

But all that aside, DON'T do anything stupid and you'll most likely not have any issues at all. Ergo, enjoy your trip and take in the beauty and wonder of the North.
 
#13
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

I like fishing next to bears
smile.gif
They keep everyone else out of my spot!!

All kidding aside, I take my wife and my 3 little kids fishing down in bear country all the time. We see bears, we just move on and let them be. Make noise, let them know you're there and they usually just leave you alone.

Out caribou hunting me and buddy of mine encountered 8 grizzly bears on our trip. Two came home with us, the others ran away from us as soon as they figured out we were human.

That being said, I still respect them and carry either a 12ga with slugs or a 44 mag. Knowing full well that if it comes down to that either or both may or may not do the job...... So far, I've never once had to reach for my weapon. I plan on keeping it that way.
 
#14
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

Been years since I lived there but I would recommend the Kenai area Eagle River, Coopers Landing ,Seward. Never liked Homer to many hippies and tourist. also the trip up towards Denali is worth the time. Never worried too much about Bears unless I was around spawning areas. If you plan to carry a .357 load very heavy bullets I would prefer hard cast LBT's or Keith type SWC. My opinion for what it is worth. Enjoy your trip there is no other place like it.

Mike
 
#15
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BgBmBoo</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Ok guys.
Amber REALLY wants to go to Alaska, so I am trying to get a surprise trip planned to leave at the end of the month and stay 10 days.

So...where is the "best" place to start our adventure? I was thinking Sitka as I have heard it is beautiful this time of year and there are some nice places to do some day hikes,etc.

And that leads me to "what to do"? We are very much outdoors kinda folks so hiking,exploring,etc., would be on the top of the list.

Next question is for me mainly....I plan on bringing some guns...at least my normal CCW pistol and my hiking pistol (S&W TRR8 .357). I know that is not a bear gun, but it is the best I can do. I do not own anything larger.
I hold valid CCW permits for CA.,OR.,and AZ. and see that Alaska recognizes all of these. Any thing I should be aware of while CCWing other then the normal post office,federal buildings,etc.?

Any help would be great.

Take care,Stan </div></div>

Hey Stan.
If you are looking at southeast, Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan etc, the Alaska Airlines "milk run" hits all these areas. If you fly into Anchorage, you can take the train to Denali Nat Park. This is a beautiful trip about 8-9 hrs long. There is lots of hiking at the park. I believe you can carry in the park also but one should verify first. There is plenty of lodging there.

Again, if you hit Anchorage, a trip to the Kenai Peninsula is a good choice. Loads of hiking, float trips and fly outs for bear viewing are all available. The salmon runs will all be in full swing too. Bed and breakfasts and lodges are everywhere. A boat ride on Kenai Fjords Tours out of Seward is cool too.

If you rent a car in Anchorage you can make a loop up to Fairbanks, down thru Delta Junction, Glennallen and back to Anchor town. Huge mountains, glaciers and tundra are the main attractions along with the wildlife.

Alaska has "Vermont Carry" so anyone who can legally own a handgun can carry. Concealed or open carry is fine.
If you have official contact with a LEO you must tell him you're packing. Alaskans are generally positive about the whole firearms thing.

I hope this helps a little, let me know if you have any questions.
Good Luck
 
#16
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

Thanks guys for all the input! Great advice. I did not even think about a shotgun. I have a 18" 870 riot gun that would be just the ticket.

I think I will change my point of entry to Anchorage. We will be renting a vehicle for sure as we are not the "tourist" type of travelers and like to take off on our own.

We will take LOTS of pictures for sure and post some up. Still seeing if I can squeeze this trip in ASAP this summer. Fingers crossed.

Take care,Stan
 
#19
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 7.62willdo</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If your going to take the .357 do yourself a favor and file off the front site......</div></div>

One of my favorite jokes
laugh.gif
 
#20
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ArcticLight</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If you venture into the heart of Alaska, rent a car and drive up to Chena Hotsprings </div></div>

Sound advice. Chena's a pretty special place.

BgBmBoo, whatever you end up doing you're in for a great trip. I've been up here for almost five years now and I haven't even scratched the serface of what there is to see. As for bear protection I'd second the 12ga. If I'm going to be hanging out with the bruins I generally bring my 870 and alternate 3" slugs and buckshot.

I doubt you'll have time to drive down this way, but if you do it's an amazing drive. The salmon run will be in full swing here real soon, and it's a lot less competative down here than a lot of places around Anchorage.

Either way enjoy your trip!
 
#21
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Metalhead0483</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 7.62willdo</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If your going to take the .357 do yourself a favor and file off the front site......</div></div>

One of my favorite jokes
laugh.gif
</div></div>

Fill me in, I have no heard this one, so you can fit it in your mouth? LOL

Third on the 12 guage.

I carried a Mossberg pistol grip defender up there when I was bird hunting or whatnot....
 
#22
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ArcticLight</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Metalhead0483</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 7.62willdo</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If your going to take the .357 do yourself a favor and file off the front site......</div></div>

One of my favorite jokes
laugh.gif
</div></div>

Fill me in, I have no heard this one, so you can fit it in your mouth? LOL


</div></div>So when the bear shoves it up yer azz...it don't hurt too bad!
 
#23
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

Be sure to load that 870 with slugs, and not shot. If you should a Grizzly with 00 Buck it will just piss him off really bad.
laugh.gif
I'd go as far as to get a couple boxes of Hornady's new TAP Saboted Slugs.
 
#24
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: RoosterShooter</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Be sure to load that 870 with slugs, and not shot. If you should a Grizzly with 00 Buck it will just piss him off really bad.
laugh.gif
I'd go as far as to get a couple boxes of Hornady's new TAP Saboted Slugs. </div></div>

I ran into, and away from rapidly, a mother Griz with cub up in Montana. Theres a lot you can say about them but "BAD MOTHER FUCKER" covers most of it. A fully grown Griz can run 30 miles an hour, and reeach full gait in two strides. They can be oh you before you get your gun up and fire. Be smart, be safe.
 
#25
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

Actually, I had recommended earlier SSG's which up here is triple-ought buck. IIRC, there are 9 to 11 balls of lead there, approximately .380 in diameter. (this being in a 12 ga. 3" Magnum) The loading sequence I'd suggested was Slug/SSG/SSG/Slug/SSG/SSG.

This is all hypothetical 'last-ditch' evasive & extreme action scenario, but if the worst were to occur, the slug for skeletal damage and the SSG's for tissue damage. As much as possible, as Fast as possible.

If it actually came down to a situation between the bear and you/loved one.

Or you can ignore everything I've said above, and do what you'd like. All's cool.
 
#26
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

Boss just got back from a couple weeks up there.
I can ask for more details of his trip, if you're interested.
He is not the tourist attraction type.

Last year was a month in Korea and China.
Year before was 6 weeks in Thialand and Borneo, with his 14 year old son. (was there 30 years ago in the peace corp)

Please e-mail if you have any questions.
Can't get the hide at work.
Shouldn't be a problem calling and talking to him either.

Lightweight bear gun?
Contender 12" SSK in 45-70.
Just a little heavier than Ruger Super Blachack in .44.
"Bout the same size and weight.
Much better for pack than a scoped Super Redhawk.
Revolvers can hurt if you are laying and shooting Creedmore.
All fit in large frame
Uncle Mikes style Holster.

You will already have your ccw.
Just a "Final" thing.

"Chicks dig Whales"
Boss has pics from inside one of those light boats.
Not sure which sound.
We support him to trot the Globe for us.

Longer time is goood for us.
 
#27
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

Dont know how true it is, but have heard, if you do have a bear charging you, try to take out a shoulder, so it falls/slows, then you can do what you need to.... dont know if its true or not.
 
#29
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: RoosterShooter</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If you should a Grizzly with 00 Buck it will just piss him off really bad. </div></div>

I'm going to beg to differ there. In my experiance 00 buck is quite effective. Like I said, I alternate my shotgun load half slugs and half 00-buck.

And yeah, if a bear's into a full-on charge by the time you're aware you'll be real lucky to have time to do any real aiming at all. Put it roughly on center mass, squeeze the trigger, and keep squeezing. Them things are FAST when they get going...
 
#30
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ArcticLight</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Metalhead0483</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 7.62willdo</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If your going to take the .357 do yourself a favor and file off the front site......</div></div>

One of my favorite jokes
laugh.gif
</div></div>

Fill me in, I have no heard this one, so you can fit it in your mouth? LOL

</div></div>

"Be sure to file the front sites off your pistols. That way when the bear takes it away from you and shoves it up your ass it'll hurt less..." I think I heard that one within a week of getting sent up here. I was carrying around my .40 cal duty weapon at the time
wink.gif
 
#31
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!

For one shot up close, I'll still take the 45-70.
Smaller and lighter than a 12 gauge.
Hooded front sight becomes a bead.
4 oz trigger, and no travel, is a no brainer.
Bigger than Casul and just a tad quieter.

Recoil is an issue for many.

Stan, Boss has a lot of pics.
 
#32
Re: Trip to Alaska...to surprise Amber...help!


Definitely visit Kodiak if you get a chance. We have it all, hiking, berries, 5 salmon runs, halibutt, cod, goats deer, bears, eagles, coffee, booze, kayaking, camping, surfing, spearfishing, mountain biking its all here. Hippies, fisherman, cannery workers, Coasties, Navy, tourist, this week Russian sailing ship, next week cruise ship, always something to do.

On the firearms, a 12 ga is good, really won't matter on what comes out of it because if you really need it that shot cup will still be full when it hits, and the muzzle flash will probably burn his eyes. I carry a couple slugs while duck hunting though. 357 is weak sauce here, I carry a 475 linebaugh, you would be lucky to get a shot off if its needed so I figure a big hole is better than a small one. If hanguns are in the picture a 44mag would probably be the standard sidearm, see lots of them here.

You just need to be smart with the bears, I have never needed a gun, but it is comforting.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

Lowlight
Some of you guys are in for a surprise
Replies
736
Views
34K
DarnYankeeUSMC
DarnYankeeUSMC
Lowlight
Many Thanks on a Devastating Day
Replies
97
Views
3K
diverdon
diverdon
Blaster7Romeo
Idaho trip advice
Replies
35
Views
1K
42N8 1
4
LuckyDuck
Maybe you had to be there- otherwise (now) funny stories you were able to witness
Replies
47
Views
2K
LuckyDuck
LuckyDuck
J
New guy from CA
Replies
5
Views
211
AZLong
A
Top Bottom
Back
Home
Forums
Merch
Alerts