'Bear-Repelling Poles' Attracting Attention; Developed by Man Who Faced Bear
japannews.yomiuri.co.jpSo basically a spear.
The person interviewed recommended not to strike the bear with the pole. Instead he recommended using the pole to scare the bear — keeping it at arms length. Realistically a bear encounter is likely to result in injury. The pole is an attempt to minimize the injuries sustained. It is basically a walking stick with a U shaped end to fend off the bear’s paws.