I was in Bethel from 1995-98. I also spent nine months in Dillingham. I worked for Yute Air, Camai Air and Arctic Circle Air. I moved into ANC in 1998 as an FE on the DC-6 with Northern Air Cargo but they furloughed me 7 months later. Now I fly a Metroliner for Peninsula Airways.
Survival kits (including a gun) are required by state law. The gun, of course, poses a problem on flights to Canada.
Truth of the matter is: The company equips all aircraft with a minimal survial kit *without* a gun. It's a good idea to bring along a few extra things to supplement the little survival kit the company provides.
Fly safe