About this episode

Larry Weishuhn and Phil Massaro discuss the allure of African safaris and the role of hunting in wildlife conservation.

Episode Overview In this episode of DSC's Campfires, host Larry Weishuhn ("Mr. Whitetail") sits down with Phil Massaro—editor of the Gun Digest annual, NRA contributor, and seasoned hunter. The two share an energetic and passionate conversation about the deep allure of African safaris, the vital role of hunting in wildlife conservation, and their shared love for classic heavy-caliber firearms. Phil shares his experiences from a recent safari in the Sango Conservancy, located in Zimbabwe's Save Valley. The Landscape: Sango is a million-acre block of land that was successfully converted from cattle farms into a thriving wildlife conservancy. Wildlife Diversity: Phil marvels at the sheer variety of life in the conservancy, noting sightings of black and white rhinos, painted dogs, bateleur eagles, lions, leopards, elephants, and massive herds of Cape buffalo. The "Bug": Phil explains that his obsession with Africa began in 1996 after skipping the opening day of deer season to watch the movie The Ghost and the Darkness. This eventually led to his first plains game hunt in South Africa in 2004, cementing a lifelong passion. A major theme of the episode is the critical difference…

People in this episode

Host: Larry Weishuhn

Guest: Phil Massaro

Topics covered

• hunting
• wildlife conservation
• African safaris
• heavy-caliber firearms
• wildlife diversity
• local communities

Keywords

• African game
• hunting
• wildlife conservation
• Sango Conservancy
• heavy-caliber firearms
• plains game hunt
• local communities
• NRA contributor

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Gun Digest

Books & works: The Ghost and the Darkness

Places: Zimbabwe, Sango Conservancy, Save Valley

More episodes of DSC Campfires with Larry Weishuhn

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• EP 403 Samuel Old: Whitetail Habitat Management · July 8, 2026 · 49 min
• EP 401 Gary Roberson Talks Game Calls · June 24, 2026 · 40 min
• EP 400 Campfire Talk with Luke Clayton · June 17, 2026 · 54 min

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