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Hunting and camping are more than just hobbies for many families, they’re a way of life.
For Vince Kalkowski and his son Garrett, a hunting trip on October 3rd near Meeteetse, Wyoming, started like countless others.
But what unfolded that day became a story they’ll never forget, highlighting the importance of being prepared for anything in the wilderness.
Vince described Garrett as someone who’s always loved hunting. “When he was old enough, I started taking him,” Vince recalled in a recent interview with KTVQ News.
On this trip, the father-son duo spotted a bull elk in the distance and decided to pursue it.
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They ventured deep into the timber, a spot they’d always considered ideal for elk. But instead of finding their prize, they encountered a grizzly bear charging straight at them.
A Grizzly Attack Unfolds
In an instant, their peaceful outing turned into a life-or-death situation. Garrett described the bear as “low, with her ears back,” moving with a singular, deadly intent.
She was just 30 yards away and closing fast.
Garrett’s instincts kicked in immediately. “I grabbed my gun and just started firing—boom, boom, boom,” he recounted. His quick reaction, along with having a bullet already chambered, saved their lives.
The grizzly dropped mere feet away, but not before the encounter left them both shaken.
“I’m just standing there, shocked at what I just saw,” Vince said.
The aftermath was surreal, a mixture of disbelief and relief. Both father and son are grateful to have survived, though the “what-ifs” still linger in their minds.
The Importance of Being Prepared
This harrowing experience is a sobering reminder of how quickly things can go wrong in the wild. For hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, being prepared can mean the difference between life and death.
Garrett’s decision to have a round chambered in his pistol was critical in stopping the bear’s charge. Without it, this story could have had a very different ending.
Preparedness doesn’t just mean carrying a firearm—it means practicing with it, knowing how to react under pressure, and staying aware of your surroundings.
Hunting in bear country adds another layer of responsibility.
Carrying bear spray, maintaining proper distance from wildlife, and staying vigilant are essential. And, of course, having a bear gun handy — with one in the chamber.
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is a seasoned outdoorsman, lifelong hunter, and the kind of guy who’d rather track whitetails than scroll social media. As an editor for GunsAmerica, he’s got a sharp eye for spotting both solid gear and bad gun laws. Whether he’s deep in the woods or deep in editorial deadlines, Larry brings a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach to firearms, hunting, and the great American tradition of self-reliance. If there’s a hot debate on gun rights or the latest in hunting tech, you can bet Larry’s got an opinion—and it’s probably backed up with both facts and field experience.
Experience:
– Licensed Bowhunter, Hunter, and Trapper – Experienced in ethical hunting and wildlife conservation.
– Concealed Carry Permit Holder (NYS & AZ) – Trained and licensed to carry in multiple states.
– 2A Journalist – Covering firearms legislation, Second Amendment issues, and gun rights for over a decade.
– Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) – Certified to provide emergency medical care in the field.
– Field-Tested Gear Reviewer – Hands-on experience with firearms, optics, and hunting tech.