Near Fatal Grizzly Bear Attack Inspires Montanan’s Product Line

"If I save one person’s life with this product, it’s all worth it.”

That is the sentiment of Mark Matheny, founder of UDAP Industries in Butte, after a life-altering experience in the Montana backcountry.That experience is what inspired him to develop what he believes is a better bear spray.

Last week, Montana Governor Greg Gianforte visited UDAP Industries, Inc., a small business specializing in the manufacturing of bear spray and personal defense products. In fact, "UDAP" stands for Universal Defense Alternative Products.

In 1992, while hunting near Yellowstone National Park, Matheny survived a grizzly bear attack thanks to a canister of pepper spray used by his hunting partner.

Mark Matheny's story is a frightening one, but certainly not unique in Montana. In 1992, while hunting near Yellowstone National Park, he survived a grizzly bear attack thanks to a canister of pepper spray used by his hunting partner.

You can find out much more about the products available and Mark's full account and see photos of the aftermath of the attack here. BE ADVISED: The photos are graphic in nature and parental discretion is recommended.

That experience led him to develop a more effective and reliable bear deterrent, launching what is now Grizzly Guard, a company known for producing some of the most trusted bear spray on the market.

Congratulations on the success of UDAP so far and here's hoping it continues. With over 20 employees, UDAP Industries sells its products to distributors across the country including to retailers such as Costco, Cabella’s, Sportsman’s Warehouse, and Murdoch’s.