I'm with the majority here in saying there's a lot of good discussion on this topic here, and all much appreciated. I also do a lot of hiking, backpacking, camping and kayaking in the Southeast, mainly in NC, but the surrounding states as well. My main concerns tend to be the occasional bear, which to date have not been a problem, but don't want to be unready should they change their mind. Have had the experience of encountering weird and/or confrontational two legged critters in the wild, which is good to know you are not without the appropriate force should it be needed. So far, these confrontations have not led to violence, so I've been fortunate.

I'd have to say the best holster I have is actually the poly for my Beretta Px4 9mm, but I really don't feel this particular weapon is enough protection for the woods. So I have a 2" barrel Taurus .357 Magnum that I carry in a fanny pack with the web belt/plastic clip, so I can still have it on if I drop the pack. Also sits well on my hip inside my kayak without fear of wedging in case of a wet exit, or I can just put it in my day hatch for long distance paddles.

I've made a recent addition of a Ruger GP100 (also .357 Magnum) w/ 4" barrel, and am considering getting a larger fanny pack for it, as that's worked well with the smaller Taurus. As was addressed before, the straps, especially across the chest, make that a little less attractive an option for my use, but something to think about for shorter hikes. Thigh carry is something I'll also take a look at, but since the legs are also needed for the longer hikes, want to make sure I'm not doing something that's constricting, inviting leg cramps and such.

As for the liberals, I try to get along with them, so cc is first preference, as my conversations with them are best kept apolitical...just there in the woods because I enjoy it, and I'd much rather have a nice hike with them than to be putting up with their views on saving whales, polar bears, or guilty-as-hell mass murderers.