Colorado Elk Hunt. Sidearm??

[cjk]

I have been invited on an archery elk hunt in Colorado in 2008. The group has been going for years and has an opening. They do not carry sidearms and say they havent had any problems.

Having never BTDT, I envision downing an elk, and meeting or having a large critter(bear,etc) follow the blood trail dripping out of my pack loaded with meat while heading back to camp.

I would rather not lug around extra weight(pistol) of its not needed, but i sure would like it there if I do need it.

So anyone have trouble with critters in Co?
Nothing to worry about?
Buy a new .45?

[royinidaho]

I'd say that you shouldn't have to be concerned w/BIG critters or arguments over the gut pile with them.

In parts of Eastern Idaho its a different story:eek: The griz have learned to come to the shot knowing that sometimes there is a nice gut pile waiting. That's why its good to "gut and get gone".

My research on this forum says that a 45 Long Colt in Ruger Blackhawk, 5.x" barrel w/310gr hard cast bullets loaded to around 1000fps is just the ticket.

Nice to carry, nice to shoot, and has plenty of frontal area w/some umph...

[ss7mm]

Just be sure to check all game laws for Colorado.

I can't say about Colorado, but there are states that won't allow you to carry a firearm of any kind while archery hunting, so check before just to be sure.

[J E Custom]

CJK

The only time you will have problems is if you are still
hunting and slip in between a sow and her cubs.

Normally the bears want to get as far away from you
as possible.

I have bow hunted in colorado at least 15 seasons and
never had a problem with any nasty's coming to a kill
( to much celebrating going on ).

Depending on where you hunt, magpies ( a very noisy
Bird ) may find your elk before you. "Can be good help
at times".

Also be sure and check the management area rules if
you decide to carry a side arm.

Good Luck
J E CUSTOM

[huntinfool18]

if i remember correctly you can not have ANY firearm with you when archery hunting in colorado. your not even suposed to have them in your vehicle or camp. might want to check and make sure. huntinfool18

[royinidaho]

Originally Posted by ss7mm

there are states that won't allow you to carry a firearm of any kind while archery hunting,

Who in their right mind would obey a dumb regulation like that?;);)

Got involved in a field investigation as I was in the area. The warden asked if any of us were carrying a side arm. We said, no, as none of us were. But he never looked.

[cjk]

Thanks guys. I didnt read anything in the rules that says sidearms are illegal. Sounds like the wild, wild west isnt as wild as it used to be.