I have received a response via email from my leo acquaintance from the Cherokee National forest. Handgun carry is a go in the Cherokee. You may not carry in forest service (federal)buildings, but carry permit holders are allowed to carry in the forest. As far as the bill to carry a loaded long gun, his reply states there is no federal law to prevent it either. He indicated he also checked with the TWRA as well. I have responded to him and asked his permission to post the text of his email on this forum and out of courtesy to him I will wait on his reply before posting the complete text of his reply. So, the state district attorneys office says it's okay, and now the feds say it's okay.