In The Bulletin (Aug. 16), I read the story of grizzly bears in Montana and a woman who carried pepper spray for defense.

Many hikers and campers carry pepper spray because they have been told it works against large carnivores. Well, it doesn’t 100 percent of the time. Pepper spray does not even work against humans 100 percent of the time.

Pepper spray consists of cayenne pepper and either water or alcohol to add volume and a propellent, as used in hair spray or similar products.

Studies have shown that in many cases because pepper spray is primarily a food additive it can attract — not repel — bears.

The only sure defense against a large carnivore, bear, cougar, or wolf, etc., is a large-caliber rifle, or perhaps a 454 Casull or 500 Smith and Wesson magnum handgun cartridge, and possibly for cougars or wolves, a shotgun with slugs. Anything less is to risk your life in a confrontation with a bear.

These predators have been taken with less sometimes. But is “sometimes” something you want to bet your life on? Pepper spray is too unreliable to bet your life or your family’s life on. Avoid when possible and be prepared always when in the wild.

Stay safe in the wild and use common sense, not advertising gimmicks. Get some training in firearms use. Better to be safe than sorry. They are wild animals after all.

Michael Trotta

Redmond