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What’s next for Virginia gun laws, and how could upcoming legislation impact hunters, firearm owners, and Second Amendment rights? In this episode of the Green Top Outdoor Podcast, host Hunter Brooks sits down with Philip Van Cleave, President of the Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL), for an in-depth discussion about Virginia firearm legislation, constitutional rights, and the future of gun ownership in the Commonwealth. With more than 25 years of experience leading VCDL, Philip shares his perspective on the changing political landscape in Virginia, recent legislative developments, and ongoing legal challenges surrounding firearm regulations. Hunter and Philip explore proposed assault firearm bans, magazine capacity restrictions, concealed carry laws, firearm purchase permit requirements, and the potential impact of new legislation on Virginia residents. They also discuss how Supreme Court decisions, constitutional protections, and state-level court challenges influence firearm policy. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How the Virginia Citizens Defense League became involved in protecting Second Amendment rightsWhat proposed Virginia firearm restrictions could mean for gun ownersThe differences between concealed carry permits and proposed firearm purchase permitsHow constitutional challenges to firearm legislation workWhy Supreme Court decisions matter for Virginia gun lawsHow firearm industry liability laws could affect businesses and manufacturersThe role of the Virginia General Assembly in shaping firearm regulationsWhy civic education, voter participation, and understanding the legislative process matter The conversation also examines how citizens can stay informed about proposed laws, understand their constitutional rights, and participate in discussions about public policy. Whether you're a hunter, recreational shooter, firearm owner, or simply interested in Virginia politics and constitutional law, this episode provides an educational look at the legal and legislative issues shaping the future of firearm ownership in Virginia. About Our Guest Philip Van Cleave has served as President of the Virginia Citizens Defense League since 2001. VCDL is a grassroots organization focused on Second Amendment advocacy, legislative monitoring, and constitutional litigation in Virginia. Stay Connected Subscribe to the Green Top Outdoor Podcast for more conversations about hunting, fishing, conservation, outdoor traditions, and issues affecting Virginia's outdoor community. Disclaimer: This episode is intended for educational and informational purposes. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not constitute legal advice. Firearm laws and pending legislation are subject to change. Topics: Virginia Gun Laws | Second Amendment | VCDL | Philip Van Cleave | Virginia Legislation | Constitutional Rights | Firearm Regulations | Concealed Carry | Virginia Politics

What does it take to build a fishing reel company that stands out in a competitive industry? For Florida Fishing Products, it starts with a passion for fishing, quality equipment, and a commitment to taking care of customers long after the sale. In this episode of the Green Top Outdoors Podcast, Hunter Brooks and Todd sit down with Cael Wilson, National Sales Manager for Florida Fishing Products, during the Green Top Outdoor Expo. Cael shares the story behind the company, from developing its first Osprey spinning reel to becoming a trusted name among freshwater and saltwater anglers. The conversation covers the challenges of designing fishing reels, testing products with professional fishing guides, and why Florida Fishing Products focuses on delivering dependable performance without breaking the bank. They also dive into the company's unique $50 reel rebuild program, the evolution of the Osprey and Osprey V2 spinning reels, and the importance of building lasting relationships with customers and retailers. Of course, it wouldn't be the Green Top Outdoors Podcast without a few great stories. Cael talks about chasing tarpon in Florida, discovering Virginia's incredible fishing opportunities, and his hilarious first experience duck hunting in Virginia. From fishing gear and industry insights to hunting adventures and plenty of laughs, this episode is all about the people, products, and traditions that make the outdoors special. Visit greentop.com to explore fishing equipment, hunting gear, and everything outdoors. Subscribe to the Green Top Outdoors Podcast for more conversations with outdoor industry professionals, fishing experts, hunters, and the people who share our passion for the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, and everything outdoors. Experience the tradition!

This educational episode of the Green Top Outdoors Podcast features David Hennaman of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) for an in-depth discussion about wildlife conservation, hunting license fees, hunter education, deer management, and outdoor recreation in Virginia. The conversation explains the role of DWR's R3 program, which focuses on recruiting, retaining, and reactivating participants in outdoor activities. David discusses education and outreach efforts involving hunting, fishing, boating, wildlife watching, and other outdoor programs, as well as cooperation between wildlife agencies across different states. A major portion of the discussion focuses on how wildlife conservation programs are funded. The episode examines hunting and fishing license revenue, federal Pittman-Robertson funding, matching and reimbursement structures, and Virginia's House Bill 38 funding. The discussion provides context for how these funding sources relate to wildlife management, conservation programs, education, fisheries, and other DWR responsibilities. The episode also examines changes in hunting participation and access to hunting land in Virginia. Topics include the decline of large hunting clubs in some areas, changes in private-land access, increased use of online licensing, hunter education participation, and trends observed following the COVID-19 period. The final portion focuses on Virginia deer management. David discusses antlerless deer harvest objectives, extended opportunities in certain areas, deer population management, biological and cultural carrying capacity, and the relationship between deer numbers and available habitat resources. The discussion also addresses the role hunters can play in providing harvested deer to charitable food programs when they have more venison than they personally need. This episode is presented for educational and informational purposes and reflects a discussion of wildlife management, conservation funding, hunter education, and outdoor-resource management in Virginia.

Patrick Holmes and Andrew Napier join the Green Top Outdoors Podcast for a deep dive into the world of used guns, firearm collections, estates, and the constantly changing secondary firearms market. Patrick shares what it’s like traveling throughout Virginia and neighboring states to evaluate and purchase gun collections of all sizes—from just a handful of firearms to large estates involving dozens or even hundreds of guns. The conversation covers why people decide to sell collections, including downsizing, moving, settling an estate, or simply deciding it’s time to turn a longtime collection into cash. The crew also talks about what happens when evaluating a collection, how unusual or rare firearms are researched, and why accessories can have value too. Ammo, scopes, knives, gun slings, reloading equipment, and other firearm-related items may all be part of a collection. Along the way, they dig into what’s hot—and what has cooled off—in the used gun market. The discussion includes Winchester lever guns, Remington rifles, Smith & Wesson revolvers, Marlin lever actions and rimfires, early Colt ARs, Ruger No. 1 rifles, Browning shotguns, Sako rifles, Franchi shotguns, Thompson/Center firearms, Beretta 92s, and plenty of other collectible guns. There are also some great stories from years of buying collections: unexpected finds, massive amounts of ammunition and reloading equipment, rare guns, forgotten firearms, and collections where the family had no idea just how much was there. If you own a gun collection—or you're responsible for an inherited collection and aren't sure where to start—this episode offers an inside look at how the process works and what can make older firearms valuable in today's market. Hunting, fishing, and everything outdoors. Experience the tradition with the Green Top Outdoors Podcast.

Hunters for the Hungry: Turning Virginia’s Deer Harvest Into Meals for Families in NeedGary Arrington of Hunters for the Hungry returns to the Green Top Outdoors Podcast to talk about the incredible impact Virginia hunters are making in communities across the Commonwealth. Joined by Hunter Brooks and Todd Sadler, Gary shares how Hunters for the Hungry takes donated deer and turns that valuable source of protein into meals for men, women, children, veterans, and families facing food insecurity. Last year was another phenomenal year for the organization, with more than 205,000 pounds of venison donated and processed, providing more than 820,000 quarter-pound servings. Since 1991, Hunters for the Hungry has distributed more than 8.3 million pounds of venison, representing over 33.4 million quarter-pound servings throughout Virginia. But keeping the program moving takes more than donated deer. As Gary explains, Hunters for the Hungry needs both “deer and dollars.” Processing costs continue to rise, and the organization is also facing a shortage of participating deer processors. At the same time, demand from food banks, church pantries, feeding programs, and other organizations continues to grow. Gary also discusses new ways Hunters for the Hungry is putting donated venison to work, including shelf-stable venison chili, stew, soup, and spaghetti sauce. These products can reach families and feeding programs that may have limited freezer or refrigeration capacity. In this episode, you'll hear about: How donated deer become meals for Virginians in needWhy deer processors are the program’s “unsung heroes”Rising processing costs and why financial donations matterThe need for additional processors and volunteersHunters for the Hungry’s statewide impactNew canned venison initiativesHow hunters can donate while purchasing a Virginia hunting licenseThe importance of hunters serving their local communitiesThe Hunters for the Hungry Sporting Clays Benefit ShootHow just $1 can help provide three quarter-pound servings Gary also talks about the future of Hunters for the Hungry and the need to find passionate people who can help carry the organization’s mission forward. Whether you donate a deer, contribute a few dollars, volunteer your time, help spread the word, or support a Hunters for the Hungry event, every contribution can make an impact. Learn more about Hunters for the Hungry, find donation information, locate participating processors, and discover ways to support the program at h4hungry.org. Hunting, fishing, and everything outdoors. Experience the tradition with the Green Top Outdoors Podcast.

Why Trail Cameras Are Important | Cellular vs. Traditional Trail Cameras for Better Hunting SuccessTrail cameras have transformed modern hunting, giving hunters more information than ever before without disturbing the woods. In this episode, we discuss why many experienced hunters believe hunting season actually begins in July—not on opening day. Summer is the time to start scouting deer, monitoring antler growth, preparing food plots, and collecting valuable trail camera data that can make all the difference once the season opens. The conversation explores how trail camera technology has evolved from the early days of 35mm film and SD cards to today's advanced cellular trail cameras that instantly deliver photos and videos directly to your smartphone. We discuss how these cameras allow hunters to monitor wildlife activity remotely, reduce scent intrusion, identify travel patterns, and make more informed decisions throughout the hunting season. You'll also hear a comparison of traditional trail cameras and cellular trail cameras, along with discussions about popular brands including Tactacam, Moultrie, Browning, Cuddeback, SpyPoint, Bushnell, Stealth Cam, and others. The episode covers affordable cellular data plans, battery life improvements, lithium battery packs, solar charging options, trigger speeds, video recording, image quality, and the latest technology that has made trail cameras more accessible than ever. Beyond deer hunting, the hosts explain how trail cameras are being used for waterfowl scouting, turkey hunting, trapping, wildlife observation, property security, construction site monitoring, and catching trespassers. These cameras have become valuable tools for hunters, landowners, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to monitor activity on their property year-round. Whether you're buying your first trail camera or looking to upgrade your current setup, this episode offers practical advice on selecting the right camera, understanding today's features, and preparing for a successful hunting season. In This EpisodeWhy hunting season starts long before opening dayBenefits of cellular trail camerasCellular vs. traditional trail camerasTrail camera placement and scouting strategiesBattery life, lithium packs, and solar powerTrail cameras for deer, turkey, and waterfowl huntingProperty security and wildlife monitoringChoosing the best trail camera for your budget If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with another hunter who's getting ready for the season.

Glock's slimline pistols have become increasingly popular, but how do the Glock 43X and Glock 48 compare to each other—and how do they stack up against the long-established Glock 19? In this episode of the Green Top Outdoors Podcast, the team takes a closer look at the similarities and differences between these three handguns. Topics include barrel length, sight radius, recoil characteristics, carry comfort, magazine options, and how each platform performs in everyday use. The discussion highlights the practical advantages of the Glock 43X for concealed carry, the shooting characteristics of the Glock 48, and the versatility that has helped the Glock 19 maintain its reputation over the years. Along the way, the hosts share observations from handling, carrying, and shooting these firearms while offering perspective on where each model excels. This is a straightforward conversation focused on comparing features, performance, and real-world considerations for three of Glock's most talked-about handguns. #Glock43X #Glock48 #Glock19 #ConcealedCarry #Podcast

Virginia’s new firearm laws are officially signed, and major changes are coming for gun owners across the Commonwealth beginning July 1st. In this episode of the Green Top Outdoors Podcast, the crew sits down to break down the new assault firearm definitions, magazine capacity restrictions, and how these laws could impact everyday Virginians. The discussion covers AR-15s, threaded-barrel pistols, semi-automatic rifles and shotguns, PCCs, SBRs, suppressors, magazine limits, lowers, and the confusion surrounding enforcement and transportation. The team also talks about how these laws affect hunters, competitive shooters, concealed carriers, and first-time firearm buyers. Beyond the legislation itself, the conversation shifts into responsible gun ownership, firearm safety, training, optics, and why education matters now more than ever. The guys share practical advice for new shooters, discuss the culture of firearm ownership in Virginia, and explain why many people are preparing before the July 1st deadline. Whether you’re a longtime gun owner or simply trying to understand the latest Virginia firearm laws, this episode provides a grounded, real-world discussion about what’s changing and what it could mean moving forward. Topics Covered: • Virginia assault firearm laws • Magazine capacity restrictions • AR-15 and semi-auto rifle regulations • Threaded barrel handgun rules • Semi-auto shotgun restrictions • PCCs, SBRs, and lowers • Suppressor legality in Virginia • Firearm safety and training • Concealed carry discussions • Virginia gun culture and community response Follow Green Top Outdoors for more hunting, shooting, fishing, and outdoor content.

Hunter Brooks sits down with Captain Colt North of Litigator Sport Fishing to talk all things Chesapeake Bay fishing, including cobia fishing, red drum (redfish) season, and the realities of running a full-time charter fishing business. In this episode of the Green Top Outdoors Podcast, Colt shares how he went from fishing as a kid to building a thriving charter operation. He breaks down the seasonal patterns of trophy red drum, the adrenaline-filled experience of cobia sight fishing, and why the Chesapeake Bay is one of the most unique and productive fisheries in the world. Hunter and Colt also dive into what it really takes to succeed as a charter captain—from maintaining boats and gear to planning trips, tracking fish movement, and managing clients. Whether you're new to fishing or a seasoned angler, this conversation gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the strategy, preparation, and passion that go into every trip. If you're thinking about booking a fishing charter or just want to learn more about saltwater fishing in Virginia, this episode is packed with valuable insights and real-world experience. 🎯 What You’ll Learn:How Colt North got started in charter fishingWhy Chesapeake Bay is a world-class fisheryRed drum fishing strategies and seasonal timingWhat makes cobia sight fishing so excitingHow charter captains prepare for the seasonGear, boat maintenance, and fishing tacticsWhat to expect when booking a fishing trip

This video dives deep into current Virginia gun laws, legal risks, and proposed legislation, featuring firearms attorney Gilbert Ambler. If you are a gun owner in Virginia, this conversation breaks down what you need to know right now, from brandishing laws to the controversial assault weapons ban. You will learn how brandishing is defined in Virginia, why it is one of the most common firearm-related charges, and how even lawful gun owners can unintentionally get into legal trouble. The discussion also explores how different jurisdictions, and even court interpretations, can dramatically impact your rights and responsibilities. We also cover major updates on pending gun legislation in Virginia, including the proposed assault weapons ban, magazine restrictions, and how these laws could affect buying, owning, carrying, and transferring firearms. You will hear insights into how these laws may evolve, potential future requirements like registration, and why many gun owners are concerned about long-term impacts. Additionally, the video highlights the role of US Law Shield, explaining how legal protection works in real-world scenarios and why having immediate access to an attorney can make a critical difference during a self-defense incident. Whether you are a new gun owner or experienced, this video provides valuable legal insight to help you stay informed, compliant, and prepared. What you will learn: What counts as brandishing in VirginiaKey changes in proposed gun lawsLegal risks gun owners should avoidHow self-defense coverage works

What does it take to build an archery event that welcomes first-timers, seasoned competitors, bowhunters, kids, families — and everyone in between? In this episode of the Green Top Outdoors Podcast, Hunter and Todd sit down in the Green Top podcast studio with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources to talk about the 2nd Annual Virginia DWR Archery Open, coming up January 10th at Richmond Raceway. You’ll hear from: Ben Fairbanks, Archery Education Coordinator for DWRKelsey Steinberg, Community Engagement & External RelationsShelby, Public Information Officer

The Green Top Outdoors Podcast connects listeners with the heart of Virginia’s outdoor heritage. In this episode, Hunter and Todd sit down with owner Ted Barrett and Director of Operations Chloe Altaffer to explore Dundee’s history, its explosive growth since 2020, what makes their upland program so elite, the tradition of dog work, the unforgettable English theme days, corporate retreats, weddings, hospitality, and why this place has become a true Virginia treasure. If you’ve ever wanted to experience upland hunting, classic Southern hospitality, or a sporting event straight out of the English countryside — this episode is for you. Our mission is simple: celebrate the people, places, and traditions that make outdoor life unforgettable.

From Mom’s garage hand-loads to becoming one of the most recognized shells in waterfowl—this episode dives into the Migra story through the voices who lived it. Hunter Brooks and Andrew Napier from GTOP sit down with Mark Regalbuto (CEO of Migra) and the one-and-only Q-Tip to talk about the 2025 Boat Ramp Tour, culture, customer connection, the wild life on the road, and what it takes to build a brand hunters actually trust. From stories about public-land encounters, customer service done the right way, decoy-spread coaching, the rise of 28-gauge obsession, and teasing brand-new ammo development, this is an inside look at the authenticity behind Migra’s meteoric rise. If you’re a waterfowler, a gear nut, or someone who appreciates real people doing things the right way… this episode is pure gold.

Wes Hodges of Wes Hodges Fly Fishing & Bird Hunting joins us to talk why “Virginia is the new West,” Your host Hunter Brooks along with Todd Sadler learn how his guide service became experience-first, and why getting people—kids, veterans, families—outside still matters more than numbers. From smallmouth on the James and the New River to world-class muskie, to grouse dogs and glamping on the river, Wes breaks down what makes Virginia crazy underrated for hunting and fishing.

Sons of Liberty Gun Works pulled a surprise visit to Green Top, so we flipped the mics on. Your host Hunter Brooks along with Justin Boyd returns with Mike Mihalski, Sean Murphy (VP of Sales & Marketing), and Scott Peterson (Director of Special Projects) to talk origin stories (from a garage to 50 states and 14 countries), winning major contracts, why brick-and-mortar still matters, and the “Mark One” family built for visual augmentation systems. We also dig into QC at scale, LE growth, calibers with staying power, and what makes a sub-MOA SOLGW SBR feel… unfair. Highlights: From garage builds to global footprintFanatical end-user support (and why it matters)Mark One: built around optics/thermal/NVLE agencies adopting fast (and why)Calibers: 5.56 purist takes & 6mm notesShot Show: where handshake capitalism still works