I am 63 years old and retired. I served in the USAF in SE Asia during the Vietnam War and was a Professional Engineer while employed. I mention that because my background deals with common sense and logic. I love the outdoors, including hiking, canoeing, fishing and deer hunting. I have a VA valid concealed handgun permit. I currently can concealed carry a handgun in public places including malls, stores and on the city streets. If molested in those areas, I can call for assistance as well as protect myself. I have proven myself myself to be reliable and a law-abiding citizen.

It does not make sense to me that I can not currently legally carry a handgun in certain state forests! That's a location where I can't yell out for help or call for timely assistance. Besides the possible criminal (who would likely be carrying a weapon illegally), there's also the possibility of other threats from snakes. wild dogs, etc. Also, the handgun would allow me to signal for help in case of injury or health issue. Let me repeat, criminals can protect themselves with a handgun (since by definition, they may not be abiding by the laws), but the laws restrict me, a law-abiding citizen, from the same protection--doesn't make sense!

Thanks for the opportunity to comment.