I am very much a semi-auto guy. 2 years ago I started spending a lot of time in Black Bear country, fishing and hiking. I've run across a few blackies already. I do have experience hunting them in Northwest Territories ad am familiar with how large they can get. Not often you get in trouble with them, but it can happen.
I felt undergunned with a Kahr PM40 and I sure don't want to carry anything heavy. So, for the first time ever I look into lightweight 357 revolver. I now have a Ruger LCR and a S&W M&P 340 both in 357. For the cost, the Ruger is hands down the winner. Trigger on Ruger is darn good as well. Overall, I really like the S&W much better though. Fit and finish are excellent. I dropped a WOLF spring kit in it to lighten up the pull.
It is very light weight, and a beast to handle with full power 357. BUT I have to admit, I carry it often now. Almost every day. It has won me over on semi-auto.