I went hiking with my wife and three kids today at a county park. Typically when I go out I do carry either my M&P 9mm or my S&W revolver. Well the last time we went to this park I notice a sign that prohibited firearms and I went back to the truck and put my M&P in the center console. My wife likes this park because its about a 2.5 mile trail hike along the creek. Well we completed most of the hike and were on our way out when we happened upon a boar hog. Well not happened but suprised a boar hog and it suprised us. It charged directly at my 11 year old daughter. I pulled her out of the way and shouted very loudly at the boar hog (about 160-180 lbs would be my estimate, I do hunt them quite a bit). When I shouted the boar hog diverted its path away from us and ran away in the bush. Now I highly doubt that I would have pulled my gun based on the charge...In fact I'm sure I wouldn't because it happened so fast and I was to concerned with getting my daughter away behind me. My only concern is what would have happened if it would not have diverted its path and I didn't even have a pocket knife. More than likely a few stitches and no harm, but it sure would have been nice to have that M&P just in case of other 2 or 4 legged beasts.