Is the GL1 any good for self filming your hunts? I know it's the older model than the GL2, but I don't know if I can spring the extra 500 for the GL2.

the GL 1 is a SUPER camera for shooting your hunts. User friendly, 3 ccd's, good lens & control, tons of aftermarket accessories that can be attached or added later.
Lots of the shows began with it and just upgraded to XL1s or XL2.
The mini DV format is actually a very hardy format that many computer mfgr's editing programs support.

I've read about a lot of problems with the Gl1's and 2's. Do you have experience with that?

I have the GL2 and its amazing. I did alot of research before the purchase and found this was the best for me. i had a sony Hi8 before, that worked fine but not nearly as clear.

Im starting a show and we have the GL2's they are great! Small and easy to work.