Generally speaking you shouldnt have too much trouble with a Black Bear. There are isolated incidents like the one mesadog described but they are rare at best. I have had MANY close encounters with black bear and a couple with Grizzlies. Black Bear are usually big sissies. Dont get me wrong, they should be respected but 99 times out of 100 if they smell you or hear you, they will boogey. The thing to remember about Black Bears is dont count on the fact that they see you. There vision is terrible and they rely on their nose and ears more than anything. Pepper spray would be a good plan if your really concerned but I have never felt threatened by a Black Bear. Cow moose scare me much worse than bears do. I have been charged by moose more than once.
The Bear that attacks someone in a tent is a dangerous bear. He is hunting and you are now food. He has come into that camp knowing full well whats there. A bear that is stumbled upon or who comes to a call can be easily startled into flight. If ever attacked by a Black Bear, never, never use the play dead trick that often works with grizzlies. Studies have shown the best way to survive a Black Bear attack is to fight back with everything and anything you got. Same is true of a Grizzly that attacks a sleeping camper. Fighting is the only chance of survival because the attack is not about a sudden stimulus. A surprised grizzly that attacks or a grizzly sow with cubs will often cease their aggression when the stimulus goes away. That is why experts say to ball up, cover your neck and play dead during such a grizzly attack. The bear that comes into a camp where it can smell humans is looking for trouble.
I hope some of this info will help you decide how best to protect yourself. As stated earlier, as a last resort, you probably will have a weapon in your hand if your on a calling stand.
