As an occasional outdoor enthusiast, I make it a point to only go hiking, backpacking, etc. in places where I can lawfully carry my .44 magnum revolver, for protection against predators (both human and animal). VA state forests are not "Second-Amendment-Free-Zones." My right "to keep and *bear* arms" should not be infringed just because I enter a state forest. Change the rule in state forests so that I can lawfully carry to protect myself and my family when traveling through and recreating in VA state forests. This new rule should permit concealed and OPEN carry of firearms. It is very difficult to conceal a .44 magnum revolver (the smallest caliber handgun capable of stopping large predators), and there is no reason why right to keep and bear arms should have to be kept "secret." This is my right, and you need to recognize that. 

Sincerely,

Ben Piper

Arlington, VA