I support concealed permit or open carry of handguns in State Forests. There are valid reasons for individuals to carry a handgun in these areas for sport and for personal protection. The state law should not prohibit this freedom for individuals guaranteed by our 2nd Amendment. I see no valid reason to restrict handgun carry in State Forests and view such restrictions as another attempt by government to hamstring our rights as citizens. Taking such rights away from us ensures that we will become impotent, law abiding victims subject to the whim of criminals, rabid animals, or other threats to our safety. I am surprised that such a prohibition even exists. Long arms (rifles and shotguns) are not always easy to carry and are much more threatening to others than a safely concealed or holstered handgun. Those of us who use firearms responsibly should not have our rights abridged because of those who have criminal intent- They will continue to be criminals regardless. I believe it is the role of government to protect citizens and to provide for their general welfare, not to strip away our ability to protect ourselves.