>>2024753Different anon. Cougar and bear attacks are super rare in the southwest, like rarer than getting struck by lightning. I wouldn't be too worried about them, a knife and a good head on your shoulders is all you really need. Most euro tourist deaths in the southwest (and there is a LOT lol) are from dehydration and underestimating the climate and how much water they needed. Occasionally there are even some freezing deaths usually every other year as well both natives to the area and tourists. You are more likely to encounter small venomous critters and deaths from those are just as rare. That said, as an American and living in one of the best states for gun owners I still carry at least one (sometimes more) gun whenever I go out simply because I want to and I can and sometimes I like to bring one for a woods LARP.
