Explore every episode of the podcast TFB Behind the Gun Podcast

In today's episode, I've brought on fellow podcaster Bryce from The Carry Handle Podcast to talk about his show and some hot topics currently being discussed and debated in the firearms world. Bryce has been producing firearms-related content for a long time with his roots on YouTube spanning back to his days reviewing airsoft guns. Fast forward to today and he and his buddy Kevin (the Co-Host of The Carry Handle Podcast) have started a new podcast that discusses everything from the firearms industry to more practical applications and use cases for firearms, gear, and components often found in video games. Today Bryce and I will discuss not only his podcast but also the upcoming Gundie Awards (the firearm industry's version of the Oscars), as well as some shop talk about the firearm that was recently used in the assassination of a United Health Care CEO. Please sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode featuring Bryce of The Carry Handle Podcast.

The Carry Handle Podcast on Spotify

The Carry Handle Podcast on YouTube

The Carry Handle Podcast on Instagram

The Carry Handle Podcast on Facebook

In this episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, I’m happy to bring back TFB Writer Sam S and TFBTV’s Hop to talk all about Silver Screen Wheel Guns. The revolver holds a special place in American culture, thanks in no small part to its starring role in the Western genre. These stories, with their dusty landscapes and iconic heroes or anti-heroes, helped cement the wheel gun as more than just a firearm—it became a symbol of resilience and self-reliance. Even today, revolvers continue to bring in both seasoned shooters and new enthusiasts alike, not just for their simplicity and reliability but for the way they embody a bygone era where survival was an art and justice was often self-served at the hands of regular everyday citizens. From their unmistakable silhouette to their storied presence on the silver screen and in real-life American history, revolvers remain a timeless reminder of the independence that shaped the American West. It’s a legacy that still sparks lively debates and shared admiration among revolver fans, whether at the range, in a conversation about classic films, or in their sometimes less-than-accurate representations in said films. Today we hope you’ll join us in celebrating this specific genre of guns, and the films we often get to know them by. 

Welcome to today’s episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast! I’m thrilled to have Rob Gearing on the show—a lifelong shooter, hardcore hunter, and the founder of Spartan Precision Equipment. Rob has a fascinating background, and today, he’s here to share not only his personal journey but also the story of Spartan and how it’s shaking up the world of shooting gear.

Spartan Precision started with just one product: the Javelin Bipod. It was designed with hunters in mind—lightweight, practical, and built to last. But Rob and his team didn’t stop there. Over the years, Spartan has grown into a powerhouse, making not only bipods for backcountry hunters but also adaptable tripods and bipods that fit perfectly into tactical and competition roles. They’ve stayed true to their hunting roots while keeping an eye on what shooters need now and in the future.

In this episode, Rob and I dig into what makes Spartan tick, why their gear is becoming more popular here in the U.S., and—get this—he even gives us a little teaser about what they’re unveiling at SHOT Show 2025. If you’re a gear junkie or just curious about bipods, you’ll definitely want to check out Spartan’s free resources on their website and their new educational videos on YouTube.

So, sit back, relax, and let’s get into it. Please join me in welcoming Rob Gearing of Spartan Precision Equipment to the podcast!

• Website: https://javelinbipod.com/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spartanprecision/

• Rob Gearing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spartan_mrg

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spartanprecisionequipment/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SpartanPrecisionEquipment

• Linktree: https://linktr.ee/spartanprecision

The Proving Grounds isn’t just another 2-gun competition; it’s a proving ground in every sense of the word. Hosted at The Sawmill Training Complex in South Carolina, this event pushes competitors to their limits, combining technical shooting stages with physical challenges that make you earn every single shot on target. Think of it as part tactical trial, part personal crucible, and all-around gritty fun with a healthy and encouraging competition environment to boot. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a new shooter with something to prove, The Proving Grounds is where skills get sharpened and legends get made and our guests Matt and Dan want you to be there with them.

What’s cool about this competition is how it embraces virtually any type of pistol-rifle combo you can think of. For instance, Matt and Dan thought future competitions could lean into Cold War vibes. If you’re a fan of iconic films like Red Dawn or GoldenEye, you already know that these firearms aren’t just cool movie props; they’re cultural artifacts from a time when geopolitical tension oozed into pop culture and transformed everyday gear into legendary symbols.

The talk of a possible Cold War theme down the road got us all waxing poetic about the guns that hooked us on the hobby in the first place. If you’re the kind of person who dreams about running an East German MPi-KM or a classic FAL while pretending you’re in some secret desert firefight from the 1980s, The Proving Grounds is your playground, and Matt and Dan are here to guide you through it with some of their favorite Cold War era firearms.

• https://theprovinggroundscompetition.com/

• The Proving Grounds Facebook

• The Proving Grounds On Instagram

• The Proving Grounds On YouTube

Sponsors of The Proving Grounds:

• ZRODelta

• US Optics

• Lynx Defense

• Hunters HD Gold

• KCI

• Krate Tactical

• C&H Precision

• Herrington Arms

• Rx Plates

• Ammo Inc

• Brave Castle

In episode 140 of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we've brought back competitive shooter Wade Reed to discuss the expanding firearms community specifically in the realm of competitive shooting. In addition to that, we'll also go over Wade's more recent contributions to the firearms industry including some new rimfire ammo, as well as some new variants of his extremely cool Mark IV Carbine - a lightweight upper that converts any Mark IV lower into a quick and nimble carbine for steel challenge shooting. We'll also talk a bit about topics such as the increasing popularity of competitive shooting, the benefits of more involvement from inexperienced shooters, and the role of social media, the youth, and public perception in connecting enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Reed shares insights into how newcomers can engage with the community and the positive impact of such participation based on experiences in his own life being a competitive shooter, as well as a father to young children. This episode is a doozy so buckle up and please give a warm welcome to Competitive Shooter Wade Reed. 

• Facebook

• Instagram

• LinkedIn

In today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're bringing on Matt and Dan of The Proving Grounds to discuss what makes their competition special. The Proving Grounds is an athletically focused two-gun match that incorporates elements of 3-gun style target engagement and movement, along with some more athletic firearms competitions like The Tactical Games. Set to take place in two weeks, The Proving Grounds typically is held in the South Carolina Region, specifically at The Sawmill Complex and the Clinton House where competitors are allowed to shoot virtually any caliber of firearm they're comfortable with, and get a chance to engage targets beyond the confines of a pistol bay for that extra added challenge. Today Dan and Matt will share what they love about shooting how they got involved with The Proving Grounds, and why they think you should participate. Please give a warm welcome to Dan & Matt of The Proving Grounds.

• https://theprovinggroundscompetition.com/
• The Proving Grounds Facebook
• The Proving Grounds On Instagram
• The Proving Grounds On YouTube

Sponsors of The Proving Grounds:

• ZRODelta
• US Optics
• Lynx Defense
• Hunters HD Gold
• KCI
• Krate Tactical
• C&H Precision
• Herrington Arms
• Rx Plates
• Ammo Inc
• Brave Castle

Today on the podcast I've brought on fellow gun enthusiast and YouTube Joe from the channel Desk Pop to talk shop about some recent struggles we've both noticed in the YouTube gun creator space, as well as some of our most recent projects and favorite firearms. Joe is in the midst of somewhat of a rebranding right now as he, like other people who produce firearms content on YouTube, has seen a significant decline in the revenue generated by each video, as well as a general lack of support from companies who typically benefit from the creator/manufactuer relationship. While YouTube may be pretty harsh when it comes to their demonization and throttling of YouTube videos related to firearms, Joe is determined to press on anyway he can which is why he's happy to announce his new YouTube venture "UpShots" which aims to not only provide a new creative outlet for Joe, but also help fund his primary focus on Desk Pop. 

"We are so back baby, REAL hardcore testing, making content entertaining and not taking ourselves too serious while seriously treating serious operator gear (seriously). Hit the subscribe button and strap in."

Desk Pop On Instagram

Desk Pop On YouTube

Hello and welcome back to another episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast! This week I'm back in the studio again with TFB Writer and film aficionado Darwin to talk about some of our favorite Modern Military Movie Guns. Most gun guys enjoy debating, nerding out, and arguing with one another about all sorts of firearms found in movies ranging from Sci-Fi, Westerns, Dramas, Thrillers, and of course military movies. Today Darwin and I thought it might be fun to blindly discuss some of our favorite modern military movie guns and sometimes how they might have turned out to be cooler in the movies than they are in real life or vice versa. We also take some time to talk about some of these firearms and how they've helped influence some of our own shooting habits, and sometimes even the whole firearms industry as a whole. Please let us know what your favorite modern military movie guns are and give Darwin a warm welcome back to the show! 

This episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast is going to be focused on firearms you might want to have handy in case of a natural disaster. While the answer for this is going to be different for virtually everyone depending on where they live, the type of disaster is also what matters. Hurricaine Helene has put much of the southeastern United States in a state of emergency and while it seems that local communities are being quite altruistic and helpful to their neighbors, we all know from previous natural disasters just how tragic things can get. Natural Disasters can quickly become even deadlier due to lack of power, food, medical supplies, or civil unrest spurred on by the disaster itself. Today I've brought on TFB writers Cameron and Sam to talk about the guns that they think of first as being handy for natural disasters in their area. We'd love to hear from you and what you typically prioritize for firearms when it comes to natural disasters or other state-wide emergencies in your area. Let us know what you think in the comments! 

We're back from TriggrCon 2024 and today we'll be hearing from one of the organizers of the event, Mr. Dave Timm. Dave has been in the firearms industry for a long time having worked, written, and produced content for a lot of companies in the past including Ranier Arms which hosts the TriggrCon even every year. Today Dave and I are going to go over 2024's TriggrCon expo and range day and also give you guys our thoughts on this year's Golden Trigger recipients. We'll also take some time to talk about Dave and what he's got planned for himself down the road in terms of videos and articles he'll be producing under his own brand - Learning Firearms. Dave is a retired Law Enforcement officer, competitive shooter, and all around gun nerd that I'm happy to have on the podcast. Please give Dave Tim of Learning Firearms a warm welcome to the show! 

Where You Can Find Dave:

https://www.learningfirearms.com/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxxQY8NI2NImatPyW7xeouQ

https://www.facebook.com/learningfirearms/

https://www.instagram.com/learningfirearms/

In today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're bringing back TFB Writer Darwin to talk about the new SIG MCX-SPEAR otherwise known by its military designation - the XM7. The XM7 is the result of the NGSW program and I've recently had the opportunity to start digging into one of their Civilian versions of the rifle chambered in the new 6.8x51mm hybrid cased ammunition. Darwin is quite a fan of not only SIG's new rifle but also battle rifles in general. Today he and I will discuss some of the history of the XM7, and talk in depth about the new 6.8x51mm cartridge and some of the potential it might have even outside of combat. Please welcome back TFB Writer Darwin to the Show!

Today I'm honored to have Kurt of Blue Alphaon the TFB Behind the Gun Podcast. Longtime TFB fans will no doubt know that we're sponsored by Blue Alpha Belts. Back in 2016 when TFBTV  itself was just getting established, Kurt and his business partner Jesse, both aircraft mechanics, decided to start Blue Alpha belts to fund their range sessions. Fast forward just a couple of years and Blue Alpha Belts has expanded from just a garage operation to a business that supports many great American employees and provides range and tactical gear for all sorts of Americans - especially just us guys who want to have some fun on the range with our favorite guns. Today Kurt and I will discuss Blue Alpha's humble origins, their primary goal with starting the business, and of course, all of the intricacies that we don't often see from this side of the firearms industry to g ain a better appreciation for what Kurt and his team go through while having fun along the way. Please welcome Kurt of Blue Alpha belts to the show! 

In today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're bringing Marvin from AMMJ to discuss his new commercial-grade Laser Aiming Module. When it comes to laser aiming modules or LAMs, there are a lot of limitations placed on the output of civilian lasers due to FDA regulations. Today, subject matter experts Hop and BrassFacts will get to chat with Marvin about the Penumbra LAM, some of the inspiration behind it, the struggles that Marvin has had to go through hto get it to market, and of course what his plans for the future are with his latest product. 

ABOUT PENUMBRA LASER AIMING MODULE

The aiming lasers are slaved and are calibrated together. The illuminator is on a separate bench and can be calibrated independently and spot size is adjusted with a throw lever at the rear of the device. The housing and components are machined aluminum and feature industry standard mounting surfaces. A micro red dot on the top of the penumbra. the bottom has a 3 position aimpoint mount compatible hole pattern allowing you unlimited configurations making it easy to mount at any height or clamping system that you prefer.

The controls for output of the laser and illuminator are also independent of each other with a high medium and low output each and defuser for the illuminator. The green laser will not fire if an Ir mode is also active. One button for activation; press and hold for momentary, and a double press for constant activation - this also applies to any crane style cable button.

FEATURES

✅ Light-weight & low-profile stance

✅ USE/STANDBY Weak LED indicator

✅ Adjustable NIR VCSEL illuminator

✅ Security tethered loop tie down

✅ Rail secured by 2 shock nuts

✅ Multi-function keypads

✅ Stability sensor

We're back again in our ongoing series of top products according to the TFB crew. Previously we've talked about our top 5 and top 3 guns for a minimalist setup, but after seeing how almost everyone will default to the same types of guns almost every time, I thought we'd shake things up a bit this week. This week we're talking micro red dots. Just 20 years ago the first inklings of the concept were starting to take hold in the competitive shooting and military world. Today we're pretty spoiled for choice when it comes to red dot optics on pistols and that's why I'm joined today by TFB writers Nic L and Darwin N to talk about their current top 5 pistol dots (not all of them are red). Nic has been a frequent guest on our show and not only produces content for TFB but also hosts his own podcast and produces videos of his own about just about everything in the firearms space. Darwin is one of the newest recruits to the TFB squad and brings a lot of experience from both within the firearms industry, and outside of the firearms industry as a competitive shooter and life-long gun nerd. So what will their top 5 pistol red dot optics be? Tune in and find out in this week's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast. Also, be sure to let us know what your top 5 pistol red dots are!

Nic Lenze on Instagram

Darwin N on Instagram

We're back in the studio again with some more of the TFB staff talking about their top picks for guns. Last week we kept things pretty restrictive, with only three guns. However, given that we also restricted people to "just those three guns for the rest of your life" it felt a little bit too predictable because most people in that type of situation would almost always default to "AR, Semi-Auto Pistol, Shotgun." With our two new guests TFB writers Doug E and Patrik O, this week, we're giving them two extra guns they can add to their forever collection, which should spice things up a bit. Today we'll hear the differing opinions on what 5 guns they'd buy if money wasn't an issue, and those 5 guns were the only ones they could have in their collection for the rest of their lives. It's a ridiculous question, yes, but also a fun one at that. So sit back, relax, and enjoy as Patrik O and Doug E discuss their "minimalist" 5 gun collection they'd own for the rest of their lives if money wasn't an issue. 

We've all probably thought about it at one time or another: "If money wasn't an issue but I could only pick three guns to use for the rest of my life, what would they be?" This is often a common thought experiment I've seen in various forms during my time as a firearms owner and today we're bringing all of you some direct answers straight from the knowledgeable yet eclectic TFB staff. For this first discussion, we're bringing on seasoned TFB writer and AllOutdoor.com Managing Editor Adam Scepaniak, as well as AOD and OHUB writer Paul B to talk about their own picks for their minimalist three gun setup, in addition to some extra talk about forgotten cartridges we miss or wish were more popular. Of course, we'd like to hear from our audience too! What would be your three picks for guns if you could only own three for the rest of your life? Thanks again for tuning in to TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're looking forward to hearing from you soon! 

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're bringing back on long-time friend of the channel Kirk from Aero precision to talk a bit about what he's been up to, and what he thinks of common "backpack guns." A backpack gun generally refers to a compact, portable firearm that is small enough to be carried in a backpack - typically a rimfire gun chambered in 22LR. These guns are often designed for ease of transport and quick access, making them popular for self-defense, hiking, or camping in remote areas. The term can describe various types of firearms, including folding rifles, short-barreled shotguns, or handguns that are equipped with braces or stocks. Takedown rifles like the Ruger 10/22 are often nodded to as the go-to weapons for the backpack gun task, but is that true in 2024? Today Kirk and I will discuss that, and a couple of other related topics in this week's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast. 

On this week's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we're bringing on another of the newer TFB crew. This time we'll be speaking with our resident Canuck, Mr. Zac K. Zac has a long and interesting portfolio of work similar to what we do here at TFB, but in a few other semi-related industries. Today Zac and I talk a bit about how Canadian firearms laws work, and what steps Canadians are taking to ensure they can continue to enjoy firearms. In addition to some of Zac's worst encounters with the misrepresentation of firearms in current Canadian media, we'll also talk a bit about Canada's rich firearms culture and history. We'll also get a quick sneak peek at some of Zac's upcoming reviews and editorials coming to The Firearm Blog. Please give a warm welcome to TFB Staff Writer Zac K! 

A few months back, TFB received a new Editor-in-chief. Pete’s departure was also a handing-off of the reigns to our guest today, Mr. Josh Centers. Josh Centers comes from a background entirely based in the media world. From web and print publications, Search Engine optimization, social media integration and campaigns, and more, Josh is bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table here at TFB. However, just because Josh has a lot of experience, doesn’t mean he’s going to completely flip the script. As you’ll see today, Josh is a die-hard firearms enthusiast and it’s part of what brought him to TFB. Today we’ll hear how he came to be editor-in-chief of TFB, what some of his favorite firearms are, and what the path going forward for TFB looks like from his perspective. 

It's no secret that suppressors, and in general NFA items have gone down drastically in terms of inventory, and wait times. Ever since the inclusion of Silencers and or Suppressors into the growing list of NFA items, wait times have almost always been the biggest inhibiting factor for potential suppressor owners. After all, who wants to wait over a year to take possession of a tube with some holes in it that you paid over $1000 for? Now that it looks like the road going forward is much more stable and far less painful to wait through, we thought it was time we brought on Dave Matheny, CEO of the Podcast's Sponsor - Silencer Shop. Silencer Shop and by extension Dave Matheny both thing that no matter how you slice it, this boom in suppressor ownership is a net positive on the entire industry. Today we'll talk about some of the negative light this recent boom has cast on the silencer industry, and also talk a bit about how Silencer Shop can help you decide which route to take when starting your NFA journey, and how they can help you pick the right suppressor for the guns you'll be shooting. Please welcome back Dave Matheny of Silencer Shop! 

This week we have Roy Hill of SOWW or the Special Operations Wounded Warriors. At SOWW, people like our guest Roy, specialize in providing cost-free assistance to those of the special operations community who need a bit of extra help reacclimating back into civilian life. SOWW (Special Operations Wounded Warriors), a 501(c)(3) Charity, was established in August 2012 to provide outdoor experiences and therapeutic retreats for active duty and veteran U.S. Military Special Operations Forces who have been wounded in battle or significant training accidents. Many of these individuals have been awarded the Purple Heart Medal. Founded by five U.S. Military Special Forces Veterans, local businessmen, and avid outdoorsmen, SOWW aims to offer thanks and fellowship to the brave men and women of our Special Operations Forces who have sacrificed so much for our freedom and safety. These events can range from things like fishing trips, camping trips, hikes, shooting events, and exciting aerial hog hunts as well as a special annual event that Roy is a huge fan of. As you’ll see today, Roy and SOWW believe that by supporting these service members, who risk their lives to defend our freedoms and often suffer personal injury, we can all make a meaningful difference in their lives. Please welcome Roy Hill of SOWW to the show! 

Support SOWW And Learn More

This week on TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we're bringing back on Les Winner of Pegasus Tests and Polaris Logistics. Most of you will remember Les from our coverage of Woodland, and Finnish Brutality in previous years. Les Winner is an accomplished competitive shooter and an active gear reviewer on his own YouTube Channel - Pegasus Tests. Les also spends a lot of his time in the legal trafficking of firearms between countries for firearms competitors. If you happen to be attending a Brutality event overseas, Les can help you arrange to bring your own firearms and gear over in the most convenient and hassle-free way possible. Today we'll talk a bit about how Les' business works, as well as some of the most interesting guns and gear he saw during this year's Lynx Brutality 2023 held in Solvenia at the Lynx Pro range. 

This week on TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we're bringing back Calvin from the YouTube channel and Instagram Account Firepower United to talk about his experiences at Lynx Brutality 2024. Outside of his humorous and oftentimes polarizing posts and skits on social media, Calvin is actually an accomplished USPSA and IPSC shooter, having competed across the globe in a number of other competitions as well even if its just for the fun of competing at a local match. Today Calvin and I will talk about some of what happened at this year's match, explore some of the pitfalls of not bringing your own tested guns and gear to a firearms competition, and some of his thoughts on the types of targets you should be shooting during training for maximum efficiency. Please welcome Calvin from Firepower United to the show! 

Calvin on YouTube

Calvin's Instagram

In this week’s episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, we’ve brought on one of the core members of the Silencer Central team, Ryan H, to talk about what he’s recently seen in the suppressor industry. The ATF has recently decreased wait times for e-form 4’s to about a week or so and this has led many who previously would not buy suppressors to suddenly want one. This has not only led to virtually every suppressor manufacturer running out of stock but also muzzle device manufacturers as well. Today we’ll talk about whether or not this is a good thing overall for both manufacturers and customers, and also what Ryan thinks the suppressor landscape is going to look like going forward as people start getting their first suppressors - is that where it ends for most people? Find out today in this episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast featuring Ryan H from Silencer Central!

Silencer Central Website

Silencer Central on Instagram

Silencer Central on YouTube”

Lynx Brutality 2024 is an international two-gun competition similar to other "Brutality" events found across the globe. Inspired and derived from two gun action challenge matches organized by Karl Kasarda and Ian McCollum of InRnageTV, Lynx Brutality is the Slovenian variant of the match that invites all competitors to demonstrate both their shooting skill and their grit through a grueling two-day, 10-stage match. Competitors at Lynx Brutality of course need a whole lot of gear if they're to participate in the Armored division and one such competitor is one we've spoken to before on the TFB Podcast, Mr. Mike Burns aka Bloke On The Range. While Mike has contributed to TFB and TFBTV in the past, these days Mike focuses entirely on his own channel where he primarily talks about historical weapons and their practical application. Mike has some interesting thoughts on his setup this year which was a "LARP" of an Iraqi National Policeman. Today we'll get his full gear breakdown as well as what some of his best and worst moments were from Lynx Brutality 2024. Please welcome Bloke On The Range back to the program! 

Lynx Brutality 2024 Live Match Coverage

Mike - Bloke On The Range YouTube

In today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're excited to welcome Matt and Annalise from FirearmLand. They'll be discussing the ins and outs of buying, selling, and trading firearms through their two businesses FirearmLand and CashForArms. FirearmLand specializes in sourcing, researching, and auctioning a diverse range of firearms, from modern pieces to rare antiques and even NFA items. Matt and Annalise will share insights into how they manage FirearmLand alongside their other business, CashForArms, and the unique opportunities this has given them to handle and shoot firearms they wouldn't normally encounter. We'll get to hear about some of their favorite firearms they've seen come across their desks and also some of the trends they've noticed in the gun industry over the years since FirearmLand was opened. They'll also talk about their growing YouTube channel, which offers viewers an up-close look at rare and unique firearms. Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Matt and Annalise from FirearmLand!

Hailing from New York and with a background in the Television industry, TFBTV's Adam M isn't your typical crew member. Adam didn't seek out guns as a form of entertainment or even curiosity but rather as a means of self-defense. After a disturbing encounter with a home invader, Adam immediately sought out to gain a means of self-defense - a gun. After getting a gun, Adam also realized he had no idea what he was doing and thus he sought out information on the internet which eventually led him to TFBTV videos. Long story short, it turns out James and Adam live pretty close by one another and this eventually led to Adam joining the team as a much-needed editor during the busy SHOT Show season. Today we'll hear from Adam as he shares his background with firearms with us, his work history in Television and video editing, and what his firearm goals are going forward in 2024. Please welcome Adam M to the show!

Meprolight optics have been in use across the globe for quite some time now. Starting in their home country of Israel, Meprolight gradually broke out of its role as a provider of military technology to the IDF, and now provides quality optics, iron sights, and laser aiming devices that work in a wide variety of situations, and for a wide variety of users. Today I'm joined by Eric and Jordan from Meprolight who will help us go over the history that this company has had from its humble beginnings making tritium powered mortar sights for the IDF, to being one of the more recognizable brands today when it comes to quality red dots and dual illumination reflex sights. Please welcome Jordan and Eric to the show! 

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we're proud to have Rich Graham of the Full Spectrum Warrior training company. Rich Graham is a former Navy SEAL team member who transitioned out of military life and right into training life. While he started his post-Navy career off by being a physical fitness trainer, he quickly picked up a passion for teaching firearms training to various law enforcement individuals, which eventually led to him starting up his company - Full Spectrum Warrior. Located in Florida, and open to both the public and law enforcement and military outfits, Full Spectrum Warrior covers a wide variety of training ranging from home defense and CQB training to long-range precision shooting as well as land navigation and stalking. Rich Graham's philosophy when it comes to training is to give his students the "full spectrum" of the subject rather than simply running them through only firearms drills. Every course Rich has available is well-researched and draws from his years of expertise as a SEAL and his continued training today as he continues to learn himself. Today we'll hear Rich's story, and some of his thoughts on why he teaches his classes the way he does, and how it can help virtually anyone who carries and uses a firearm. Please welcome Rich Graham to the show! 

• https://fullspectrumwarriors.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/fullspectrumwarriorusa/
• https://www.facebook.com/FullSpectrumWarriorUS/

Most of you are familiar with TFB's own Vladimir Onokoy - a Russian writer who's not just an expert on the AK platform, but a wide variety of firearms from across the globe. Vlad has not only served as a consultant for military outfits around the world, but as you'll learn today, he's also been a consultant, and actor, and also worked in the exciting world of firearm prop houses for Russian-based films. Today Vlad shares with us some of his history in this exciting world, how it connects to some of his modern-day writing, and some of the more unsavory experiences he had while working on sets like Kalashnikov (AK-47), and the 2021 film Sky (Russian: Небо; Nebo) also known as Mission «Sky». When it comes to exciting tales and interesting factoids about some of filmmaking most popular guns, few people other than Larry Zanoff have as much to tell as Vlad does and that's why we're glad to bring him back on the podcast today! 

Vladimir on Instagram

Vladimir's Articles on The Firearm Blog

This week, we’re joined once again by a familiar face to delve into a familiar topic: Paul B and Moons Out Goons Out 2024!

Moons Out Goons Out 2024 is a night vision carbine match hosted by Forgotten Weapons and supported by great companies like TNVC, Varusteleka, Refuge Medical, and many more. The match consists of several stages of carbine-only shooting at night, with only non-white light illumination sources being allowed during the entire course of the match. Our guest this week is a relatively new user of night vision devices, and Moons Out Goons Out 2024 is Paul’s first venture into the competition space while using night vision.

Paul B, an experienced writer affiliated with our sister sites OutdoorHub and AllOutdoor.com, had the opportunity this year to participate in the main match at Moons Out Goons Out 2024. Today, I’ve invited Paul to show us just how accessible attending the match can be – even for people who don’t have the most expensive or latest night vision equipment. Unlike other competitors like myself who used expensive sets of night vision binoculars, Paul relied mainly on a single night vision monocular, and a relatively inexpensive gun. Tune in as we discuss his match experience, highlights, and plans for next year’s Moons Out Goons Out night vision match.

We're back this week with another episode dedicated to the recent night vision carbine competition Moons Out Goons Out 2024 hosted by Forgotten Weapons. This week I had the opportunity to speak with the overall match director, a fellow competitor, and a good friend of mine - Les Winner of Polaris Logistics. This year Les had to put a lot of extra thought time and effort into each stage design to compensate for the reduced situational awareness, and drastically reduced visibility during the nighttime match. Since no white light was allowed at the match, everything from the movement of each squad, down to the terrain of the Echo Valley Training Center played a role in the creation of a safe match. Today Les and I talk about the gear he used for his own run during the match, some of the struggles with this year's stages, and how he and the Forgotten Weapons crew are planning on improving the event for next year's competitors. Please welcome Les Winner of Polaris Logistics back to the show!

Les' YouTube Channel - Pegasus Tests

Les on Instagram

For the next couple of weeks, we're going to be bringing on a couple of competitors from this year's "Moons Out Goons Out" night vision carbine match hosted by Forgotten Weapons. Our first pair of guests are Ian McCollum and Jordan Flayer, the two gentlemen from Forgotten Weapons responsible for putting the match together. Moons Out Goons Out is more than just about shooting under night vision. Today Ian, Jordan, and I talk about the tough safety challenges that they had to take into consideration for the match, their decisions behind the stage challenges and designs, as well as the effort they went through just to get the prize table stocked with great products for the competitors.

If you're interested in attending next year's match, you can keep track of the Forgotten Weapons YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram pages for more information on the match, as well as dates for next year's match and equipment that you'll need to start training with and have. Please once again welcome the guys from Forgotten Weapons to the show!

Forgotten Weapons on Instagram

Forgotten Weapons on YouTube

Forgotten Weapons on Facebook

Forgotten Weapons Website

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we've brought on a man who is not only an avid firearms competitor, but someone who has a passion for tackling difficult tasks no matter what. I had the pleasure of meeting Derek "Hooahberry" at Finnish Brutality 2023 and as is pretty typical at competitions like Finnish Brutality, we became instant friends. Today Derek will share with us not only his experiences at Finnish Brutality and how he got into the competition as a regular joe, as well as his passion for another type of difficult self-imposed task - GORUCK. GORUCK, founded in 2008 by former Green Beret Jason McCarthy, is a lifestyle brand that epitomizes the fusion of military-grade durability and civilian functionality. Drawing inspiration from Jason's Special Forces experiences and his wife Emily's CIA background, the brand has successfully carved a niche in creating rugged, versatile gear, most notably the GR1 backpack. GORUCK's ethos extends beyond product design to fostering a resilient community through the GORUCK Challenge—endurance events led by Special Forces veterans that emphasize teamwork, leadership, and endurance. These events reflect the brand's core values of resilience, community, and excellence, engaging participants from various backgrounds in physically and mentally demanding tasks. Under Jason and Emily's stewardship, GORUCK has grown into more than just a gear company; it's a platform that promotes personal growth, physical fitness, and a deep sense of camaraderie among its loyal following, making it a testament to their commitment to building a brand that transcends conventional boundaries and encourages individuals to push their limits. So please sit back, relax and enjoy as Derek recounts his time at Finnish Brutality and his ongoing goal to challenge himself and others through the GORUCK program.

• Check out Derek's Instagram
• Finnish Brutality
• More Information about GORUCK events

In this week's episode, we dive once again into the topic of Suppressors, but with a broader scope beyond mere speculation on the elimination of the NFA and the importance of reasonable wait times with the increasing legal usage of suppressors - something that literally harms no one and in fact, makes firearms a lot safer to use. Returning as an annual guest is Brandon Maddox, the CEO of Silencer Central, a man who is well-versed in the intricacies of not only NFA regulations but the suppressor market as a whole. While sharing our desire to see the NFA abolished, Brandon brings insightful perspectives on the potential ramifications of such a move at the state level for firearm enthusiasts and hunters, and why other firearms laws are first on the chopping block for him personally. He also engages in a detailed discussion with Pete on the recent surge in suppressor interest and its potential impact on the overall quality of suppressors available in the market today to address the swirling rumors of a massive dip in the quality control of many poplular suppressor brands. Brandon Maddox, known for his expertise in the industry and commitment to advancing firearm rights, offers invaluable insights into these pressing issues so we're happy to have him back on the show once again! Please welcome back CEO Brandon Maddox of Silencer Central!

In today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, Pete speaks with Chris from Yankee Hill Machine, about his favorite subject - Suppressors. Yankee Hill Machine (YHM) is a family-owned firearms manufacturer based in Massachusetts, USA. Established in 1951, YHM began as a small machine shop servicing the defense industry. Over the years, the company expanded its offerings to include precision firearm components and complete firearms, such as AR-15 rifles and carbines and even suppressors and other muzzle devices. Over the years, YHM has secured contracts with various military and law enforcement agencies, and earnd a solid reputation in the civilian world for producing products worthy of just about anyone looking for durable components and firearms. 

Get ready to dial up the energy because we've got Twista in the hot seat in this episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast! A lifelong resident of the city of Chicago, Twista isn't just a rapper, he's an avid firearms enthusiast who has a passion specifically for handguns, and also for training others. Known for his lightning-fast flow and razor-sharp lyricism in the recording room, and even faster splits on the USPSA range, Twista wants to bring the fun back into firearms for the people of Illinois. That's why we're happy to have him on today to talk about SHOT Show 2024, and some of his favorite guns and shooting sports. We'll also get a chance to hear him talk about how his early passion for firearms eventually led him to open up Gun Camp - a free firearms training facility where the people of Chicago can get the necessary training to acquire the infamous Illinois FOID card, as well as their concealed carry license. Today I think you'll be surprised to hear just how much Twista loves his guns, and how much more enthusiastic he is about training others for self-defense. Please welcome Chicago Rapper Twista to the show!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1dZ92zpLqsM

Beth Shimanski is an accomplished athlete, hunter, and angler and also our guest for today. Beth Shimanski joined Savage Arms in 2017 as their director of media. That same year Beth became a new hunter and since then has become a very accomplished hunter with a wide variety of firearms across a borad spectrum of hunting disciplines. Today Pete and Beth will share some of her favorite hunting stories, some behind-the-scenes looks at the development of some of Savage's most recent firearms and of course talk about how more and more women are beginning to take an interest in the hunting and shooting sports industries. Please welcome Beth Shimanski from Savage Arms to the show! 

Hunting Articles by Beth Shimanski

Open Source Defense or OSD is committed to safeguarding gun rights for all people, steering clear of the political complexities that often accompany such advocacy – a stance we wholeheartedly support here at TFB. Their approach centers on prioritizing online platforms, recognizing the paramount importance of cultivating and disseminating a pro-gun culture in the digital realm which is where a majority of interaction between people is taking place these days. During today's show, our host Pete, and the OSD team delves into the pivotal role of 3D-printed firearms in the upcoming years. Additionally, they discuss the legality surrounding electronically triggered firearms and explore why the ATF may be focusing on this specific feature, which has gained popularity in the DIY firearm community. They'll also address what their favorite firearms to bring to the range are! Thanks for tuning in and we'll see you all next week!

https://www.instagram.com/opensrcdefense/

A few weeks ago at SHOT Show 2024, our Editor-in-chief got out on the SHOT Show floor and recorded a couple of episodes for us. Over the next couple of weeks, we'll be spacing those episodes out here and today we'll check out the first one from our good friend Andrew Wright at SureFire LLC. Naturally, Pete would want to visit their booth this year as he's not only our resident suppressor aficionado but also the brains behind the blog's weekly series Silencer Saturday. Today Pete and Andrew discuss some of the recent successes of SureFire, their recent launch of the much anticipated SureFire SOCOM RC3 suppressor, and course their healthy lineups of pistol, rifle, handheld, and other high-powered lighting gear. Please sit back, relax, and enjoy the first of these episodes from Pete at SHOT Show 2024! 

SureFire LLC

New SureFire XR1 and XR2 Lights (Plus A New Tape Switch)

Next Gen SureFire Stiletto Pro II

We have more than a special guest in today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun podcast. In addition to our guest today, Nick Thayer of the Tactical Games, TFB's Behind the Gun podcast is publishing its first video episode! Nick Thayer is a U.S. Coast Guard Veteran with a love for both fitness, and tactical shooting sports. He joined The Tactical Games as a competitor in early 2020 and quickly found a home in the sport and the community and today largely runs most of its operations. Nick has participated in dozens of Tactical Games competitions and today we'll ask the man himself what you should expect should you choose to test yourself at a match. Today we'll go over things like round counts expected at matches, what level of fitness you should be at, what kind of gear you'll need, and where and when these matches are typically held so you can find the one that's closest to you. Today we'll also go over the unique relationship that Under Armour has with the Tactical Games, and how this is a massive shift not only for what was previously an anti-gun company, but for all shooting sports and their future. Please welcome Nick Thayer of The Tactical Games to the show! 

In today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we've brought back on Hop, as well as Brock (BrassFacts) to talk about something many shooters don't often consider when heading out to the wilderness to shoot - winter survival. Having seen a handful of people including competitive shooters, influencers, and other shooters getting stuck in the ice and snow at their shooting spots, I've brought on Brock (BrassFacts) to talk about how to get through and also be prepared for these types of situations. BrassFacts has an extensive amount of current and past experience and formal training and teaching when it comes to winter survival, land navigation, and making camp when you're displaced from your vehicle. Today we'll talk about some basic necessities for the road, what extra things you should keep around in the winter, and what type of gear is most important when it comes to tackling these types of situations. Please welcome BrassFacts, and Hop to the show! 

In today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, Luke C speaks with Chris and Sawyer from Vortex Optics about some of their new products, their company's history and focus, and all about their dedicated training facility, Vortex Edge. Vortex Edge sits as a standalone part of the Vortex Optics campus that serves the purpose of being one of the best ways that the Vortex Optics company can interact with their customers - firearms training. Whether it's long-range precision shooting, basic carbine, high-level pistol shooting, or even night vision training, Vortex Edge's team of talented and experienced instructors and staff can not only get you the training you need, but they can also get you the equipment you need to do it.  Today Chris and Sawyer will give us the rundown on what you can expect from a class at Vortex Edge, as well as some hints at some new products set for release throughout 2024. Please welcome Chris and Sawyer from Vortex Optics to the podcast! 

Vortex Optics

Vortex Optics on Instagram

The Vortex Nation Podcast

Keep track of Vortex product releases via the Vortex Nation Newsletter

For the 100th episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, Hop and I are coming at you with some tips for attending your first SHOT Show convention in Las Vegas. With the show just around the corner, my buddy Hop and I thought it's about time to drop some survival tips based on our years navigating this gun enthusiast's haven in Las Vegas. From the best places to grab a bite and chill to strategic booth visits, we've got you covered. Expect a mix of our coolest and cringiest moments from past shows, giving you a taste of the SHOT Show rollercoaster. And of course, if you're itching for the latest releases, stay tuned to our blog and YouTube channels for daily updates straight from the SHOT Show floor. Let's make your 2024 SHOT Show experience one for the books!

TFBTV - Main Channel Updates and Big Releases

TFBTV Show Time - Comprehensive SHOT Show Video Coverage right from the show room floor

Hop - Instagram

Luke - Instagram

Happy New Year from all of us at TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast - Today in Episode 99, the squad discusses their 2024 New Year's Gun Resolutions. We've brought on a lot of the TFB Crew and a couple of friends including Brass Facts, Crogs, and Katie from the Discord channels. In this celebratory episode we all talk about what we want to get out of our firearm year in 2024. While most of us probably want to shoot more in general, today the gang has a few more specific goals in mind when it comes to some of the firearms they want to pick up, shooting events they want to attend, or even some more basic training needs and practices. No matter how you slice it, we're all out here to improve this year so we hope you'll join us in ringing in the new year with some positive energy as we discuss our 2024 New Year's Gun Resolutions. 

It goes without saying that for media outfits like TFB and TFBTV, SHOT Show is one of the biggest highlights of the year, with virtually unfettered access to all of the industry's various firearms, optics, ammunition, and accessory companies as well as their latest products. This week we're bringing you a previously unreleaesd episode of the TFB Behind the Gun Podcast featuring TFB Writer Marcus H. This episode is back from the very same year that we started the podcast (2020) and we recently found this lost audio and decided it was a perfect time to share it with you all. Marcus is an avid long-range shooter who has covered this specific topic many times in the past, and today we get to hear TFB's Editor, Pete pick his brain about all things long-range shooting as well as what his pick for an end of the world gun would be. Please welcome TFB Writer Marcus H to the show! 

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun podcast we've brought back fellow TFB writer Sam S, author of our weekly series the TFB Armorer's Bench, as well as one of our resident gunsmiths and gun history nerds. While it's not as common today to come across weird undocumented firearms from a bygone era, you can still find these oddities in pawn shops and inside the consignment cabinets of local gun shops. Today Sam and I talk a bit about some of the weird guns we've come across over the years including a mystery manufacture revolver and a High Standard rimfire pistol with a questionable set of components. So join us this week as we talk about all the weird, and mismatched guns we've come across in in this episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast. 

In this episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun podcast we’ve brought back in our Editor in Chief Pete, as well as long time TFB Writer, Editor, and the editor of Overt Defense, Matthew Moss. Matt has been writing for TFB for quite a long time and in addition to covering historical firearms, he also has quite the passion for the minute details that can be found in the complex and vast world of military firearms, technology, and news. This has led Matt to become the editor of Overt Defense, a daily blog that specifically focuses on not just America military news and issues, but the militaries of all nations across the planet. Matt’s job, as well as his many other ventures within the historical firearms space have given him a lot of insight into not just past conflicts, but current ones as well. Today Matt and Pete discuss the various conflicts going on around the world, the arms we’re seeing these conflicts fought with, and of course what weapon Matt would go for if he had 90 seconds to “bug out.

In this episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we talk about Christmas gifts for gun guys! I've brought alohg a special guest, Kirk from Aero Precision, as well as Paul B, and Eugene L from AllOutdoor to talk about the best Christmas gifts to get for gun guys. Since the four of us have a pretty wide variety of tastes and experience when it comes to guns, we decided to get together and have a short brainstorming session about what kinds of gifts that gun guys actually want to recieve from their friends and loved ones. While we all love guns, there are just some things that cost quite a bit but aren't perfect for everyone in every situation. So today we'll each give you our best suggestions for the perfect stocking stuffers, gifts for your close friends and family, as well as some of what each of us would like for christmas. So join us today as we brainstorm about our last minute Christmas shopping ideas! 

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us here at TFB and TFBTV! This episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast is just a quick one to let some of the TFB crew share what they are thankful about this year both in their own lives, and specifically in the gun industry! We'd love to hear what made your 2023 Thanksgiving great this year as well as what you're all thankful for! Sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's special episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast!