If the State of Virginia will guarantee my personal safety at all times, then I see no need to have a weapon.  But, since that is impossible, I see no alternative to carrying a weapon.  State Forests are remote, mostly without cell access, and without any type of police presence.

I like to hike and I am in my 50's.  I'm not able to use my hands for personal protection.  I have come across other hikers who have been armed with axes and smoking pot.  There are also illegal pot farms in remote areas of Virginia.  So why limit my ability to protect myself and my wife????  Makes no sense to me.