I lived in Colorado for many years, and yes the big cats are around in the mountains, but are pretty shy unless they are sick, or very hungry. They have on occasion attacked humans and pets though. I carry a CZ-75D PCR in a Maxpedition Fatboy which has a pocket specifically for a handgun. The PCR is my EDC no matter where I go, and is a semi compact 9MM with 15 round (flush mag) capacity, and 3.8 inch barrel. It is a great "split the difference" gun, and I feel well armed with it. If I don't carry a pack, which is rare when hiking, I just use my normal Bianchi OWB holster.
Glock 21 when I go hiking. 10mm conversion when I go camping in an area where there might be bigger animals I might have to worry about. Either are carried in an OWB holster.
Depends on when and where, but normally for back country and when the bears are out, S&W 5" .460 loaded with Federal 325gr But We spend a lot of time way out in the woods of NW MT. For more "urban" hiking there is a .380 in my back pocket, or a Sig 220 in a IWB on my hip...
I suppose in a situation I wasn't worrying about concealing, I'd go with a thigh rig because I'm more used to those. They're not supposed to be worn down by the knee or even in the middle of the thigh. They're supposed to be worn just below the waist. Just low enough to clear the gear so hiking is a pretty decent use for them. I am intrigued by the chest rigs though. I haven't seen them until this thread and I'd like to try them.
Not sure if it was mentioned, but check you laws first. I think all Federal State parks it is illegal to posses a firearm.
chest carry inside a Hill People Gear Recon Kit Bag lashed to an HPG Runner's Harness setup, worn underneath whatever pack I'm hauling.
I've been looking at a Tremis series holster from yetitac. It has an extra grommet so you can tie it into a fanny pack.
I usually opt for pocket carrying my Bodyguard .380 in my shorts in the desert southwest. Backpack doesn't interfere. Bear Grylls Ultimate or BK7 is in the pack. Outbackwack
Not correct. National parks you need to check by park. In state parks (different thing) that's going to vary by state, and possibly by park too. https://www.nraila.org/articles/20160817/firearms-regulations-in-national-parks
