EP 319 Chasing Carmen Mountain Whitetails & Defending the 2nd Amendment with Jeff Johnston

In this episode, Larry Weishuhn sits down in the wilds of West Texas with Jeff Johnston of the NRA and American Hunter. Recorded on a sprawling 40,000-acre cattle ranch near the Mexican border, the two discuss the unique challenges of hunting the "fan-tailed" Carmen Mountain Whitetail in the high desert. Larry and Jeff swap stories about the rugged terrain, the necessity of quality optics, and the diverse wildlife of the Chihuahuan Desert. The conversation then turns to a passionate discussion about the vital importance of the Second Amendment, the role of the NRA, and why unity among gun owners is critical for the future of the United States. [00:00] Intro & Sponsors: Larry introduces the show from the high-elevation desert of West Texas. [02:00] The Landscape: Discussing the "spine-filled" vegetation and diverse wildlife of the Chihuahuan Desert (Javelina, Mule Deer, Elk, Black Bear, and Quail). [04:15] The Carmen Mountain Whitetail: Larry explains the biology of this unique subspecies—smaller than a Coues deer but with a tail the size of a standard whitetail. [06:30] Hunting Stories: Jeff recounts his successful hunt and Larry jokes about "double drop tines." Mentions of Fred Eichler's success in camp. [09:45] Tactics & Gear: The importance of "glassing" in vast country. Discussion on optics (Stealth Vision), rifles, and the necessity of flat-shooting calibers (.270, 7x57, 6.5) and accurate ammo (Hornady). [14:20] The Second Amendment: A serious pivot to the state of gun rights. Larry emphasizes why the 2nd Amendment is the backbone of American freedom. [16:00] The NRA's Role: Why the NRA remains the strongest lobbying organization due to its membership base, not just money. [18:30] Call to Action: Larry urges listeners to write handwritten letters to legislators and maintain membership in gun rights organizations. [21:00] What's Next: Larry discusses his upcoming hunts in Oklahoma and Texas. "Everything here, for the most part, has got spines, stickers... if you look at our hands, you can probably see all the scratches." — Larry Weishuhn "To me, anything that scores 85 or better is one heck of a deer." — Larry Weishuhn on the Carmen Mountain Whitetail "Without the Second Amendment and our ability to own guns, this country will not exist in a relatively short period of time." — Larry Weishuhn This episode is brought to you by: DSC (Dallas Safari Club): Conservation, Education, and Advocacy. Hornady: Accurate, Deadly, Dependable. Taurus: Award-winning revolvers and pistols. Stealth Vision: High-tech, precision-driven eyewear and optics for the modern hunter. Red 55 Winery: Signature wines from country artist Miranda Lambert. Choctaw Hunting Lodge: Home of some of the finest hunting in North America. The Crown Bar: La Grange, Texas. Texas Wildlife Association Double Nickel Taxidermy Burnham Brothers Game Calls Join the DSC: www.biggame.org Join the NRA: nra.org Follow Larry Weishuhn: Website | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices