TFB Behind the Gun Podcast

TFB Behind the Gun #155: Gun Tinkering w/ The Carry Handle Podcast Feb 27, 2025

Firearms customization has been around for probably as long as firearms have. This week on TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast we’ve brought back the hosts from The Carry Handle Podcast - Kevin and Bryce - to talk about an often hotly debated topic: Do you or Don’t you modify your guns? As Americans, we have access to a litany of firearms and related accessories. In some cases and for a lot of us, our first AR-15 was probably made entirely out of individually purchased parts rather than sold as a complete rifle. Today Bryce and Kevin will discuss whether or not they like to approach firearms this way and why. As you’ll see everything is not so black and white, but when it comes to tweaking and progressively updating firearms, you’ll find that not everyone is on the same page. Please give a warm welcome back to the guys from The Carry Handle Podcast - Bryce and Kevin!

TFB Behind the Gun #154: Steve Foster, Crazy Ivan, & Creekside Custom Feb 20, 2025

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we've brought on competitive Grand Master shooter Steve Foster to talk a bit about not just himself, but about some of the great things he's been getting up to lately. Steve is a highly accomplished Steel Challenge shooter having gained GM in multiple disciplines as well as setting the world record 58.42 second time for any division of Steel Challenge. Being a competitive shooter, Steve naturally tinkered with his guns and through that tinkering not only did he wind up starting his own custom parts business, but he also happened to become familiar with the parts of Karl Van Keuren and his Crazy Ivan Brand. Although the Crazy Ivan brand hasn't seen much activity in the years since Karl's passing today we've got some great news for fans of the brand and of shooting in general. Around the start of the new year Steve and his company Creekside Custom announced that they would be taking over the Crazy Ivan brand and continuing production of his most popular products like the OG Chassis for the 10/22, as well as giving customers new products as well that build off of Karl's original vision and drive. Much like Karl, Steve himself is driven not only by his desire to have the parts that he likes for his guns but to share his experience and enjoyment of firearms with others as you'll hear today in the pocast. Please give a warm welcome to Steve Foster in this week's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast!

www.creeksidecustomlasering.com www.facebook.com/creeksidecustomlasering www.facebook.com/CrazyIvanEnterprisesLLC https://www.instagram.com/fostershooting/?hl=en https://stevefostershooting.com/

TFB Behind the Gun #153: Spartan Hunting Thoughts w/ Rob Gearing Feb 13, 2025

This week on TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome back backcountry hunting veteran and founder of Spartan Precision Equipment, Mr. Rob Gearing. If you tuned in last time, you’ll recall that Rob and I explored Spartan Precision’s extensive range of bipods and tripods—renowned for their forward-thinking, modular design and dependable performance in tough conditions. But today, we’re focusing on another one of Rob’s driving passions: backcountry hunting.

Backcountry hunting is one of the few hunting-related subjects I’ve been fascinated with in more recent years. Rob, has spent decades traveling the world—venturing into the rugged mountains of New Zealand, the sweeping plains of Africa, and the remote wilderness of Scotland—all in pursuit of challenging hunts. He’s here to share the invaluable experience and insight he’s gained along the way, shedding light on the essential gear, physical preparation, and mindset needed to thrive in some of the most demanding environments on Earth and combine it with the skills to bring home the kill.

While Spartan Precision Equipment might be best known for their featherweight Javelin bipod—tipping the scales at just a few ounces—they also offer a broad lineup of versatile shooting supports, from the Sentinel tripod to the Davros head. Thanks to Rob’s constant drive for innovation, these products are designed to help hunters stay agile and adaptable in unpredictable terrain. During our conversation, we’ll touch on how his deep-rooted passion for hunting fuels the design process, and how he hopes these breakthroughs can encourage more people to take part in backcountry adventures.

So whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just curious about this exhilarating pursuit, join us for a deep dive into Rob Gearing’s world. You’ll hear captivating stories from his decades-long career, practical advice for getting started, and a wealth of tips on staying safe and successful in remote wilderness settings. Our hope is that this episode inspires more hunting enthusiasts—both novice and veteran—to discover the unique challenges and rewards of backcountry hunting.

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

https://www.facebook.com/spartanprecisionequipment

https://www.youtube.com/user/javelinbipod/

TFB Behind the Gun #152: American Guntrepeneurship w/ Ares Combat Systems Feb 06, 2025

Working in this industry full–time and hosting this podcast I get to talk to a lot of interesting characters, but I don’t often get to meet them in person very often. SHOT Show is one of the few times during the year that I finally get to meet people in person that I’ve only ever known online. This year, I caught up with Emmanuel—owner and operator of Ares Combat Systems as well as American Steppe Gear—who helped put one of the coolest 5.56 AKs I’ve ever tested into my hands and is one of the only companies in the US to produce hunting gear specifically designed for school-aged children. A U.S. Army veteran, Emmanuel has worked on everything from soft goods to firearms and is now shifting his sights to the night vision world with his new Helios solar-charging battery pack. We discussed his transition from military service to gun industry entrepreneur, along with the origins and development of Helios—designed to be a powerful, portable solution for on-the-go charging for night vision and thermal devices.

Ares Combat Systems Website

Ares Combat Systems Instagram

American Steppe Gear Website

American Steppe Gear Instagram

TFB Behind the Gun #151: SHOT 2025 Deep Dive with Wade Reed Jan 30, 2025

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, Wade Reed returns to join Luke for a deep dive into all things SHOT 2025. He also shares details about his latest projects, including a new rimfire ammunition lineup that’s poised to take the market by storm. Although details are still under wraps, this episode reveals as much as possible about the new ammo, along with the ways Wade aims to connect with and support others in the industry. By working together, Wade hopes to foster both the best products and the best people for 2nd Amendment supporters. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this special episode recorded right at SHOT Show 2025.

TFB Behind the Gun #150: Meprolight's SHOT 2025 Lineup w/ Jordan S. Jan 23, 2025

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, Jordan S. from Meprolight USA returns to discuss some of their new optics for 2025. Meprolight has made a big impact on the U.S. firearms market recently by offering a variety of easy-to-use duty-grade optics like self-illuminated tritium night sights, red dot optics, and reflex sights. Their products show up on plenty of American-made guns right out of the box, and you can also pick them up from almost any reputable gun shop to upgrade your existing firearms. From casual enthusiasts and competitive shooters to law enforcement officers, folks appreciate Meprolight’s rugged build quality, consistent performance in low-light conditions, and user-friendly designs that make hitting your target a breeze. Today Jordan is on the show to tell us about some new territory that Meprolight is stepping into, including their first ever civilian version of the STING laser aiming module, as well as a brand new line of variable magnification optics - a first-ever for Meprolight as a company.

TFB Behind the Gun #149: Navigating Tricky IL Gun Laws w/ Dave S Jan 16, 2025

Welcome back to another episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast. Today I'd like to introduce all of you to Dave S who not only has a ton of experience in today's topic but also has a lifetime of experience working with small arms and even crew-served weapons as part of the U.S Army. In addition to his skillsets, Dave has also been an avid supporter of both TFB and TFBTV so when the topic of Illinois gun law came up, I could think of no one better to talk to than him. Today Dave is going to take us through the considerably confusing world of firearms ownership in the State of Illinois. While it is indeed possible to own guns in IL, the current laws on the books combined with the culture that's put out by the media mean that a lot of people just don't know what the rules are when it comes to buying, owning, and using firearms in their home state. Dave has spent a lifetime collecting, building, and shooting guns in IL and is here today to help guide us through the processes we'd need to go through if we lived in the state too. So please give your attention and a warm welcome to David S!

David posts about firearms topics and thoughts every Monday on Facebook. If you're interested in speaking with him about any firearms-related topics, you can check out his posts here.

TFB Behind the Gun #148: Small Arms Airworthiness w/ Boondock Ballistician Jan 09, 2025

Today on TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we've brought on Jessie also known as Boondock Ballistician. Jessie's full-time job lies within small arms testing and development. Jessie recently brought up a pretty interesting topic that piqued my interest as a pilot, which is how small arms are treated and tested to different standards when they're intended to be used and or primarily transported by military aircraft. As opposed to most ground-based operations, aircraft including helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft have to take into account many different flight-related factors that actually have a direct effect on the way projectiles, propellants, and even the firearms themselves operate and Jessie's day job is to find out where that breaking point is and help the military develop arms and ammunition that can be used in these intense aerial combat environments. While she's not a liberty to reveal the mysterious organization for which she does this work for, you can definitely check out her other work which includes some nitty gritty details she's learned from her day job over on her YouTube Channel BoondockBallistician.

TFB Behind the Gun #147: New Year's DMR and Shotgun Talk w/ Bryce and Kevin Jan 02, 2025

Happy New Year everyone and welcome back to another episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast. Throughout the year I've had the opportunity to experience firearms in many new ways through training classes and various media events. DMRs and Shotguns are still by far the firearms that I touch the least, and today the guys from The Carry Handle podcast are coming on the show to discuss how each of these very different platforms might be more similar than you'd initially assume. Our guests today, Kevin and Bryce, will share their thoughts with us on this subject as well as what they're anticipating most from this year's SHOT Show 2025 taking place in just a couple of weeks. Be sure to check out The Carry Handle Podcast on Spotify for the latest episodes from Kevin and Bryce!

The Carry Handle Podcast on Spotify

The Carry Handle Podcast on Instagram

TFB Behind The Gun #146: Col. Julian T. Urquidez of Texas Triggers Dec 26, 2024

On today's episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, we're joined by a special guest from the U.S. Army: Colonel Julian T. Urquidez. As the Director of Operations for the United States Army Futures Command—a department dedicated to modernizing the Army’s tools— as a result, Colonel Urquidez is also actively interested in weapons development, implementation, and modernization which also fuels his passion for his projects in the civilian world. We first crossed paths at TriggrCon 2024, where he and the other owners of the now-defunct Trigger Empire introduced me to their “Kono Trigger.” In the wake of Trigger Empire’s closure, Colonel Urquidez intends to offer its former customers a new product: the Texas Triggers “Diablo” AK Forced Reset Trigger. Today, he takes us through the entire story—from how this journey started to his vision for the future of this exciting new venture.

Col. Julian T. Urquidez - LinkedIn

Col. Julian T. Urquidez - Instagram

TFB Behind the Gun #145: The Proving Grounds 2024 Championship Post-Match Recap Dec 19, 2024

In this week’s episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, we’re going to have both old and new guests on the show. Today we’re talking about The Proving Grounds Competition now that our guests have had a chance to put themselves through it. Held annually at The Sawmill Training Complex in Laurens, South Carolina—a sprawling 240-acre training facility known for its top-tier tactical courses—The Proving Grounds thrusts competitors into an intense two-day gauntlet. Built around rifle, and pistol shooting, the match doesn’t just test your marksmanship; it tests grit, stamina, and mental fortitude by weaving in climbing, running, weighted carries, and other physically punishing obstacles in addition to many odd shooting positions.

Open to both novices and diehard multi-gun veterans, The Proving Grounds has become infamous for pushing shooters to their limits. Successful participants don’t just demonstrate accuracy; they also learn to adapt quickly and maintain focus under stress. Beyond the adrenaline rush, it’s a camaraderie-driven event, with seasoned pros mentoring newcomers in everything from proper gear selection to advanced shooting techniques and even providing gear for those who really want to try, but just might not think they have the proper set of tools yet.

Now that this year’s match has wrapped up, we’ve invited a few familiar faces to share their thoughts. Joining us for a post-game debrief are returning Stage ROs Matt and Dan, second-place finisher Austin, and Timmy—a fresh face to the competition scene, who served as Stage 1 RO. Together, they’ll shed light on the behind-the-scenes prep work, the most challenging courses, and what it takes to thrive in an environment designed to push your skills to the brink.

Check Out Austin’s Match Coverage Here

Sponsors of The Proving Grounds:

TFB Behind the Gun #144 - Getting to Know Bryce w/ The Carry Handle Podcast Dec 12, 2024

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

TFB Behind the Gun #143 Silver Screen Wheel Guns w/ Sam & Hop Dec 05, 2024

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.

TFB Behind the Gun #142: Rob Gearing w/ Spartan Precision Equipment Nov 28, 2024

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #141: Cold War Guns & Competition w/ Matt & Dan Nov 21, 2024

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.

Sponsors of The Proving Grounds:

TFB Behind the Gun #140: The Growing "Community" w/ Competitive Shooter Wade Reed Nov 14, 2024

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.

TFB Behind the Gun #139: The Proving Grounds with Matt & Dan Nov 07, 2024

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.

Sponsors of The Proving Grounds:

TFB Behind the Gun #138: An Interview With Joe from Desk Pop Oct 24, 2024

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

TFB Behind the Gun #137: Modern Military Movie Guns w/ Darwin Oct 17, 2024

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!

TFB Behind The Gun #136: Handy Disaster Guns w/ Cameraon & Sam Oct 10, 2024

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #135: TriggrCon 2024 Wrap-Up with Dave Timm Oct 03, 2024

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/

TFB Behind the gun #134: Pondering the XM7 and the 6.8x51mm with Darwin Sep 26, 2024

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #133: Soft Goods FAQ with Kurt from Blue Alpha Belts Sep 19, 2024

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #132: The AMMJ Penumbra LAM w/ Marvin, Hop & BrassFacts Sep 12, 2024

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

TFB Behind the Gun 131: TFB's Top 5 Pistol Red Dots w/ Nic & Darwin Sep 05, 2024

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

TFB Behind the Gun #130: TFB's Top Guns II -Cop vs Helicopter Pilot Aug 29, 2024

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.

TFB Behind the Gun #129: TFB's Minimalist 3 Gun Setup Aug 22, 2024

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #128: Backpack Gun Talk with Kirk from Aero Aug 15, 2024

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.

TFB Behind the Gun #127: TFB's Resident Canuck - Zac K Aug 08, 2024

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #126: TFB's New Editor-in-Chief - Josh Centers Aug 01, 2024

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.

TFB Behind the Gun #125 - How Do You Buy A Silencer w Dave Matheny of Silencer Shop Jul 25, 2024

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #124: What is SOWW? With Roy Hill Jul 18, 2024

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

TFB Behind the Gun #123: Guns & Gear at Lynx Brutality w/ Les Winner Jul 11, 2024

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.

TFB Behind the Gun #122 - Firepower United At Lynx 2024 Jun 27, 2024

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

TFB Behind the Gun #121: Buying a Silencer is Easier Than Ever w Ryan from Silencer Central Jun 20, 2024

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”

TFB Behind the Gun #120: The Iraqi Police At Lynx Brutality 2024 w/ Bloke On The Range Jun 13, 2024

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

TFB Behind the Gun #119: Matt & Annalise with FirearmLand Jun 06, 2024

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #118: Behind the Scenes with TFBTV's Adam M May 30, 2024

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #117: NRAAM 2024 Wrap-Up with Hop May 23, 2024

The NRA Annual Meeting and Exhibits are a yearly treat for Luke and Hop. In stark opposition to SHOT Show, which is an entirely industry-focused event, the NRA show is for customers and gun hobbyists. At the NRA Show you'll find loads of firearms accessories for sale, and a bunch of helpful staff from the gun companies both big and small to tell you all about their products, and show you the ins and outs of them. Today Hop and Luke will go over some of their favorite and least favorite things about the NRA Show and their thoughts on some of the new products featured at this year's Texas based NRA Annual Meetings. If you missed out on the NRA Show entirely, Luke & Hop were on the scene this year to cover some of the most popular releases at the show. You can watch those videos below.

TFBTV Showtime NRAAM 2024 Playlist

TFB Behind the Gun #116: A Crash Course In Meprolight History with Eric and Jordan May 16, 2024

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!

TFB Behind The Gun Podcast #115: Full Spectrum Warrior Training w/ Rich Graham May 09, 2024

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #114: Vlad's Wild Gun Adventures in the Russian Film Industry May 02, 2024

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

TFB Behind The Gun Podcast #113: Plunging Into the Dark with Paul B Apr 25, 2024

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.

TFB Behind the Gun #112: Bringing Competition to Night Vision Safely with Les from Polaris Logistics Apr 18, 2024

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

TFB Behind the Gun #111 - Moons Out Goons Out w/ Forgotten Weapons Apr 11, 2024

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

TFB Behind the Gun #110: The GORUCK Lifestyle w/ Derek "Hooahberry" Apr 04, 2024

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.

TFB Behind Gun #109: The Return of Brandon Maddox of Silencer Central Mar 21, 2024

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #108: Chris with Yankee Hill Machine (YHM) Mar 14, 2024

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.

Episode 107 - What Is Gun Camp? Feat. Rapper Twista Mar 07, 2024

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

TFB Behind the Gun #106: Talking Shop With Savage Arms' Beth Shimanski Feb 29, 2024

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

TFB Behind The Gun Podcast #105: The Future of DIY Firearms with Open Source Defense Feb 22, 2024

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/

TFB Behind the Gun #104: Andrew Wright with SureFire Feb 15, 2024

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

TFB Behind the Gun #103: Under Armour & The Tactical Games with Nick Thayer Feb 08, 2024

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #102: Winter Survival Tips with BrassFacts & Hop Jan 25, 2024

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #101: Well-Rounded Training from Vortex Edge Jan 18, 2024

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

TFB Behind the Gun #100: How to Survive SHOT Show w/ Luke & Hop Jan 11, 2024

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

TFB Behind the Gun #99: New Year's Gun Resolutions Jan 04, 2024

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.

TFB Behind the Gun #98: Getting Revved Up for SHOT Show 2024 Dec 28, 2023

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #97: Mystery Guns with Sam S Dec 21, 2023

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.

TFB Behind The Gun Podcast #96: Conflicts Around the World with Matt Moss Dec 14, 2023

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.

TFB Behind the Gun #95: Gun Guy Christmas Gift Brainstorming Dec 07, 2023

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #94 - A Happy Thanksgiving to All Nov 30, 2023

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!

TFB Behind the Gun #93: Getting Bit By The Competition Bug w/ Nic L Nov 16, 2023

In this episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we've brought back on fellow TFB writer and my good friend Nic L to talk about his recent reintroduction into the competition shooting world. I'm of the belief that competition shooting is one of the best ways to stay not only competent and familiar with your firearms, but a great way to test out any new gear, guns, or ammunition you roll into your EDC and home defense setup. Today Nic and I share some personal stories and chat about our own experiences with competition shooting, and how it has not only enriched our personal lives, but given our reviews some much-needed variety when it comes to torture testing and finding out what new products in the firearms market are really capable of.

TFB Behind the Gun #92: What the Heck is a Thermal Fit Upper w/ Munitionworks Nov 09, 2023

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast I've brought on the owner and operator of Munitionworks, Dane, to talk a bit about his company. When it comes to AR-15 rifles, most of us aren't really looking to reinvent the wheel, and I think that goes the same for Dane. Dane and Munitionworks strive to give their customers access to the best available parts, for the lowest available price. As a result, one of Munitionworks' first rifles was the J.O.E. (Just your Ordinary, Everyday) Carbine, a simple carbine length rifle with good core components that the "average joe" could then take and spice up with their own flavor and preference of aftermarket parts. Today Dane and I will discuss his origins in the firearms world, how he came to start up Munitionworks, and give a detailed breakdown of a couple of his rifles, as well as a deep look into a unique barrel-fitting technique he uses - Thermal Fitting. Please welcome Dane from Munitionworks to the show!

TFB Behind the Gun #91: The 2023 Hesco Zombie Invitational Nov 02, 2023

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we've brought back some old friends of the show: Philip, Brent, Daryl, and Kyle, to talk about their recent experiences at the 2023 Hesco Zombie Invitational hosted at the Echo Valley Training center in West Virginia. Perfectly fitting for the month of October, the Zombie Invitational is an appropriately themed three-gun action match that involves more than just moving and shooting, but also incorporating your very own zombie survival gear to bring along with you to the match. We've previously talked to the gang about their experiences at the team-oriented Wolverine 5K match and the gang has once again reached out to give us all their first-hand experiences at this special zombie themed match that really cashes in on all of the hype in the early 00s surrounding the zombie apocalypse fad. Please welcome our conquering zombie slaying guests to the show!

TFB Behind the Gun #90: Warning Explicit Firearms Content Oct 26, 2023

The cast of characters that you'll likely meet at any Brutality match is going to vary quite widely and this year's Finnish Brutality match was no different - at least in the media squad. This year I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Paige and Jaxon who made the match a whole lot more fun with not just their shooting abilities, but also the amount of energy they put into their gear presentation at the match. Both Paige and Jaxon took part in the very popular "LARP" category where competitors are allowed to dress up as pretty much whatever themed character they wanted, and as a result, we got some pretty fun and funny costumes from both of them. Jaxon, who formally worked for Weapon Outfitters, has now transitioned to managing a fairly well-known Washington State gun range but has a load of experience in procuring, and distributing a load of different firearms and equipment. Meanwhile, Paige runs a highly successful online art business where she combines the worlds of popular culture and firearms in virtually every piece of her work. Paige is probably most well known for her more explicit work, but she also produces more family-friendly stuff, like hats, shirts, prints, and stickers, that can be found on her online store. It was an absolute pleasure to shoot with both of them at Finnish Brutality 2023, and I'm happy to have them on the show today! Today we'll get to learn a bit about both of them, what they like to shoot, what they thought of the match, some of their most recent projects (Like the Pew Peeps Expo), and of course talk a bunch about all the weird and fun stories they made in the great country of Finland. Please welcome Paige and Jaxon to the show!

Paige on Instagram

Jaxon on Instagram

The Pew Peeps Expo

TFB Behind the Gun #89: PSR Part II - Surviving Finnish Brutality Oct 19, 2023

We are back in the studio with Mr. Print Shoot Repeat this time to talk about his time at Finnish Brutality 2023. PSR and I happened to share a spot in the Media Squad together and often got paired up for the most difficult part of our respective division - The Breacher Division. Today PSR and I talk about our kit for the match, how we both got involved with Finnish Brutality 2023, and some of the highlights from our match with the Finns. PSR also gives us some of his thoughts and plans on upcoming brutality-style matches that he might be able to combine with one of his other favorite firearms activities - 3D printing. Please welcome back PSR to the show!

TFB Behind the Gun #88: Print Shoot Repeat Pt. 1 - Can't Stop the Signal Oct 12, 2023

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast I have the pleasure of bringing on a new friend of mine, Mr. Print Shoot Repeat. Mr. Shoot, as he is often called, is a purveyor of 3D printed firearms, and a deftly competent shooter to boot. Today Mr. Shoot and I discuss how he got into firearms in the first place, a bit about what he does exactly on his YouTube channel, his thoughts on the current state of the 3D printing community, and of course, what draws him to that specific community over any other. If you'd like to check out some more of Mr. Shoot's work, you can find him on Instagram, or on either of his two YouTube channels that focus specifically on 3D printed firearms, or motorcycles! Please welcome Print Shoot Repeat to the show!

Print Shoot Repeat - Instagram

Print Shoot Repeat - YouTube

Print Shift Repeat - YouTube

TFB Behind the Gun #87: Exploring the Granny Tunnel with Calvin of Firepower United Oct 05, 2023

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we've brought on Calvin from the YouTube channel Firepower United. For longtime readers and watchers of TFB, many of you might remember Calvin back when Alex C used to frequent the channel. While calvin doesn't do many long-form videos these days on his YouTube channel, he does run a highly successful series of reels that are primarily satire but often contain useful nggets of training info, or tidbits about specific firearms models. However, what Calvin is probably most famous for is the response that some of his more satirical YouTube shorts generate. While Calvin creates some of my favorite online short-form content, he's also a very competent competitive shooter having competed not just here in the States, but across the globe as an IPSC, and more importantly for today's topic, a Finnish Brutality competitor. Calvin and I were both part of this year's Finnish Brutality media squad and had a great time experiencing not just the great firearms culture that Finland has, but their Sauna culture, and also learning of some of their more infamous local attractions in the city of Helsinki. Please welcome Clavin, of Firepower United to the show!

Calvin on YouTube

Calvin on Instagram

Support Calvin on Patreon

TFB Behind the Gun #85 - Who is Varusteleka? with CEO Jari Lane Sep 21, 2023

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast I'm proud to host the CEO of Varusteleka, Jari Lane. Varusteleka (pronounced Where's the liquor?) is a Finnish worldwide distributor and producer of both military surplus clothing, and new manufacture military and outdoor gear. The company was established back in 2003 and has become the biggest army story in Europe with the company expanding from a simple surplus retailer into having three primary brands, Särmä, Särmä TST, and Terävä for a broader appeal to customers. Jari Lane took over as CEO in 2016 and since then the company has expanded beyond the production of gear, but now operates a highly successful recycling and refund program, and even sponsors worldwide shooting events like Finnish Brutality. Jari is not just a CEO, but he's an active reservist in the Finnish Armed Forces, and also an active participant in shooting sports like Brutality in which he attended. Today Jari and I talk a bit about what makes Varusteleka a special company, as well as what improvements Jari would like to make the Brutality matches in forthcoming years. Please welcome the CEO of Varusteleka, Mr. Jari Lane to the show!

https://www.varusteleka.com/

https://www.instagram.com/varusteleka

https://www.varusteleka.com/en/event/finnish-brutality-aug-19-20-2023/61118

TFB Behind The Gun Podcast #86: What is Multispectral Night Vision? Derick w/ PARD Sep 21, 2023

On this week's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast I've brought on Derick with PARD. PARD is a foreign producer of digital and thermal night vision devices that primarily caters to law enforcement and military departments needing observational equipment. However, PARD is also in the business of producing digital night vision, thermal scopes, and multi-spectral scopes that allow hunters across the globe to expand their capabilities beyond the daylight hours of the hunting season. While PARD is quite well known in Europe, today, Derick explains to us why PARD is angling to get into the US Digital and Thermal night vision market, as well as what their current offerings cover and what some of the basic terminology surrounding these types of devices means when it comes to selecting one for your specific shooting application. Please welcome Derick with PARD to the podcast!

TFB Behind the Gun #84: Remembering Finnish Brutality with Ian from Forgotten Weapons Sep 14, 2023

In our continuing coverage of Finnish Brutality 2023, it's only approprate that we bring on one of the founding members of the Brutality Matches - Ian McCollum from Forgotten Weapons! Ian along with Karl Kasarda of InRange TV started up the series of Brutality Matches back in 2018 after developing them from some local Arizona "Two Gun Action Challenge Matches." If you want to hear the full story on that, take a look back in our episode archive for our coverage of Woodland Brutality 2022 where Karl Kasarda and Russell Phagan give a full breakdown of how the matches were inspired, and how their unique ruleset works to create a highly fun yet competitive shooting environment. Today Ian joins us to talk about his personal experiences at Finnish Brutality 2023 with me in the media squad, as well as some areas where he thinks he could have done better, and finally, some advice for those considering attending a Brutality match anywhere in the world. Please give a warm welcome to the host of the Forgotten Weapons YouTube channel, Ian McCollum

Ian's full match breakdown of Finnish Brutality 2023

ForgottenWeapons - Ian McCollum - Instagram

Forgotten Weapons Website

Thank you to Varusteleka for Sponsoring the event!

TFB Behind the Gun #83: Smuggling Arms into Finland with Polaris Logistics Sep 07, 2023

In this episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast I've brought in a new friend of mine who helps budding competitors like myself get arms from my home here in the United States to competitions around the globe. Les Winner is the owner of Polaris Logistics which is an international import/export service provider with a specific focus on firearms. It's perfectly legal in most cases to have your own firearms shipped around the globe for a wide variety of purposes, however, dealing with all the permits, paperwork, and local authorities and governmetns can often prove to be too much of a hassle for most people and that's where Les and Polaris Logistics come into play. Les simply needs you to tell him where the arms need to go, and after that, you ship your guns to him and he takes care of the rest of it. Simple! In addition to being a pseudo-international arms smuggler (legally), Les also has the reputation as being one of the grand daddies of the Brutality Matches having been to nearly every single match since its inception back in 2018. This year Les and I happened to be in the same squad and got to run the competition side by side. Today, Les, and his good buddy Matt discuss our ups and downs at Finnish Brutality 2023, and of course a more detailed explanation of how Les and Polaris Logistics can help you get your guns abroad if you happen to find yourself at one growing european Brutality competitions. Please welcome Les, and Matt to the program!

TFB Behind the Gun #82: Falkin' Around with Bloke on the Range Aug 31, 2023

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we're continuing our coverage of Finnish Brutality 2023, this time with Mike Burns from Bloke on the Range. Mike is another TFB alumni whose expanded into his own YouTube channel and covers mostly historical firearms from his new home in Switzerland. Along with myself and a handful of others in our squad, Mike ran the competition as part of the Armored/TST "Breacher" division which really adds to the Brutality of the Match. Mike's getup this year was a callback to the Falkalnd's War complete with near-period correct gear save for a few items for the sake of practicality. Today Mike and I get into some nitty gritty details about his specific gear, how the antiquated setup held up to a modern competition, and also what it's like training from the country of Switzerland where is quite easy to get guns, but not quite as easy to train in a dynamic shooting enviornment for a competition like Finnish Brutality. Please welcome Mike Burns from Bloke on the Range to the show!

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #81: Finnish Brutality 2023 Recap with Kit Badger Aug 24, 2023

In today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we've brought back Ivan Loomis of TFBTV (aka Kit Badger) to talk about some finnish gun laws, gun culture, and our experienes throughout the amazing Finnish Brutality 2023 event. Ivan and I were invited out to Finnish Brutality 2023 by Varusteleka, a finnish military surplus store who now has their own complete line of outdoor gear and clothing as well as tactical gear like plate carriers and combat pants and shirts. Finnish Gun culture in a lot of ways is like American gun culture, but in other ways is drastically different. Today Ivan and I discuss what we both find interesting about their unique gun culture, as well as what brings us together both on a global scale, and of course all the way down to a squad level as we fondly look back on our brutal two day competition experience. Be sure to check back here soon for a more detailed recap of the entire event and be sure to check out both my own personal YouTube channel (ballisticaviation) as well as Ivan's (Kit Badger) for more coverage on Finnish Brutality 2023, and our adventures in the great country of Finland!

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #80: A Shotgun of an Episode Aug 17, 2023

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the gun podcast myself, Hop, and Lucas of TFB and TFBTV took a bit of time after one of our overnight night shoots to talk about anything and everything shotguns... and a bit of everything else. Today we talk about the merits and pitfalls of two of the most popular semi-automatic firearms, splitting hairs over .308 and 6.5 Creedmoor, and a smattering of other topics. Are shotguns almost always outclassed by other weapon platforms or do they still over major advantages that would make owning own worth it for the average american citizen for self defense or general preparednes? Join us this week as we let the Busch Light flow and our opinions rage in this 80th episode of TFB's Behind the Gun podcast featuring nearly the entirety of TFB's west coast crew.

TFB Behind the Gun #79: Training Trends w/Mo from Raven Wing Limited Aug 03, 2023

In this episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we've brought on Richard Mo from Raven Wing Limited - a Los Angeles-based training company that offers firearms training ranging from basic pistol marksmanship up to more advanced carbine, pistol, and night vision training. In recent times, obtaining reliable firearms training has become a paradoxical endeavor, offering both convenience and challenges. While numerous reputable training companies exist, an equal number of unsafe or ineffective ones are preying on unsuspecting customers. Among the finest in the industry are Mo and his company, Raven Wing Limited, along with their network of well-known collaborators. They provide a diverse array of courses, ranging from fundamental firearms handling to advanced pistol and carbine training. Additionally, they offer personalized consultations and even night vision courses for those who have taken a liking to night-time range sessions. Operating from Los Angeles, California, one might expect Raven Wing to face fierce competition with hundreds of other well-known firearms trainers in the immediate area. However, they have adopted a unique approach by welcoming other trainers, including renowned figures like Scott Jedlinski from the Modern Samurai Project, Tim Herron Shooting, and JJ Racaza, previously featured on TFBTV. Today, we are joined by Mo to delve into the prevailing training trends in the firearms world. He will shed light on the preferred types of guns, optics, and holsters people are using for both competitive shooting and self-defense, as we progress nearly a quarter of the way through the 21st century. Please welcome Mo from Raven Wing Limited to the show!

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #78: Patrick O with TFBTV Jul 20, 2023

I take great pride in not just being the host of this podcast, but also being a member of the TFBTV crew, which may be small in size but certainly mighty in its impact on the YouTube scene. Today, we have the privilege of hearing from Patrick O, one of our newest videographers and editors, as he shares his personal journey and how he came to join our tiny team of gun nerds. Patrick brings a wealth of experience in filming and photographing firearms, having previously served as a military photographer working closely with various special forces units during their exercises. While his impressive portfolio can be found on DIVIDS (Defense Visual Information Distribution Service), it is his exceptional editing, photography, and videography contributions to TFBTV, TFB, and AllOutdoor.com that truly stand out (although I may be slightly biased in saying so). Today Patrick and I discuss some of his favorite moments working for TFBTV and what he's been up to in terms of reviews and adventures! Let's extend a warm welcome to Patrick O of TFBTV. Patrick's Work: Instagram AllOutdoor.com TheFirearmBlog.com

TFB Behind The Gun Podcast #77: Operation Wide Receiver with Author Mike Detty Jul 13, 2023

In today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, I have the privilege of speaking with Mike Detty, the author of "Operation Wide Receiver." His book exposes the corruption and deceit behind the infamous ATF gun walking scandal that bears its name, as well as the subsequent "Operation Fast and Furious." I recently had the opportunity to meet Mike in Arizona during a Gunsite event. Although he didn't initially disclose it, upon hearing someone mention his book, I eagerly inquired about it and discovered that he was actually involved in the precursor event to Operation Fast and Furious—Operation Wide Receiver.

During our conversation on the podcast, Mike recounts his firsthand experiences as a legitimate Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) who also served as an undercover ATF informant during the operation. He reveals the reasons that compelled him to eventually expose this operation, which ultimately led to the even more notorious Operation Fast and Furious. Join us today as Mike shares detailed explanations from his book, which reads more like a captivating action thriller than a mere retelling of real events. If you're interested in delving into his book, it is available on Amazon for approximately $13. Please welcome Mike Detty to the program!

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #76: Scott with GATORZ Eyewear Jul 06, 2023

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, I've brought on Scott Melton from GATORZ Eyewear. Scott has worked in the eyewear industry for over a decade. Born and raised in Yuma, he originally helped run the family dry cleaning business but quickly learned two things: First, there was no way he was going to work in dry cleaning for the rest of his life. And second, there was no way he was going to work for his father. He joined the Gatorz team in 2015 and hasn’t looked back since. He liked the idea of building the world’s toughest sunglasses. “Not the status quo of injected plastic frames,” he points out. “The people we sell to need and demand the best, and that’s what we’re doing for them. We’re making eyewear for the people who build and protect America.” Through his expertise and with the collaboration of the entire GATORZ team, Scott has seen the brand evolve over the years. Frames become thinner, lenses become tougher, and hinges become more reliable. And every innovation comes from the same source: Listening to feedback

TFB Behind The Gun Podcast #75: Wolverine 5K Tactical Adventure Race Jun 29, 2023

In today's episode of TFB's Behind The Gun Podcast we're jumping back into some competition talk - but not the kind you're going to find at your local gun range. Today we're talking about the hardcore Tactical Adventure Race known as the Wolverine 5K. To help me describe this unique competition, I've brought on a group of guys who squatted together for the event. Philip, Brent, and Tyler come on the show today to share their experiences, along with their fourth squad mate Daryl's at this year's Wolverine 5K which took place back in the beginning of June. The Wolverine 5K differs from a typical two or three-gun competition in that it also incorporates aspects of land navigation, problem-solving, and decyphering messages, along with a pretty healthy amount of physical challenges as well just to make things more interesting. For more information on the Wolverine 5K, tune into this episode of TFB's Behind The Gun Podcast, and be sure to check out the links below for registration info, or to ask our guests some more specific questions if you have them. Please welcome the Calumet Drop Outs (our guest's squad name) to the show!

Match website: http://www.wolverine5k.com/index.html Match runner/host: https://www.marksmanshiptrainingcenter.com/ Team Info: Calumet Drop Outs Finished 10/30 teams, 10/16 in the hardcore division Brent: https://www.instagram.com/glockbrent9mm/ Philip: https://www.instagram.com/philipstraatsma/ and https://www.instagram.com/midwest_builders/ Tyler: https://www.instagram.com/tyler.h.tran/ Philip and Tyler Shared Shooting IG Page: https://www.instagram.com/acceptableaccuracy/

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #74 - What is NAAGA? Jun 15, 2023

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast our host Luke C speaks with Myloreal Anderson, Shanea Daniels, Akiethia Bost, and Jaron Smith of the National African American Gun Association about what they do for the African American Gun-toting community, as well as pretty much anyone else who wants to get good training that could help save the lives of themselves, or their fellow Americans. NAAGA has over 100 chapters across the nation and over 46,000 active members that are spread about all 50 states. Along with that NAAGA certifies its own firearms instructors and puts out a consistent set of curriculum that is rapidly expanding beyond basic pistol courses, and will soon include more advanced classes for those seeking it. NAAGA was officially started and launched on February 28, 2015, in honor of Black History Month. The founder and President of the National African American Gun Association is Philip Smith, a graduate of the University of California at Davis. He is an African-American Gun enthusiast and community organizer. He founded and started NAAGA with the primary goal to expose, educate, and motivate as many African American men and women to go out and purchase a firearm for self-defense and to take training on proper gun use. Our guests today form the two primary wings of operation of NAAGA with Shanea managing and organizing NAAGA's nationwide chapters, and Myloreal, Akethia, and Jaron organizing NAAG's network of qualified instructors which directly support and train its members.

https://naaga.co/

https://www.facebook.com/naaganational

https://www.instagram.com/naaganational/

TFB Behind The Gun Podcast #73: SilencerCo & Silencer Central Talk Shop with Pete Jun 08, 2023

On this episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we've brought in a special combination of suppressor guests to talk about everything and anything silencers and suppressors - pretty much everyone's favorite NFA item. Today, Pete is excited to host both Brandon Maddox, CEO of Silencer Central, as well as Jonathon Shults - Co-founder and President of SilencerCo. Today is a virtual who's who of silencer talk with Jonathon, Brandon, and of course our resident suppressor aficionado and Editor in Chief Pete. With these three you can expect everything from our standard "what's your apocalypse gun" questions to some more in-the-weeds talk about how each company started up, how they're doing today, some tidbits behind specific suppressor designs and suppressor/rifle combos, as well as some talk about testing procedures and suppressor metering. Please welcome back Brandon Maddox of Silencer Central as well as Jonathon Shults from SilencerCo to TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast #73!

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #72 - Catching up with Big Money Nico (TFB Writer Nic L) Jun 01, 2023

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun podcast we've brought back TFB Writer Nic L to catch up! Nic left us for a little while but now he's back and he's got a few new handguns he's been toying around with that she wants to share with us. For those unfamiliar, Nic is a writer for not just The Firearm Blog, but also Tyrant Designs CNC, as well as Falco Holsters. Nic's interests range from concealed carry handguns and holsters to things like rimfire varmint hunting, and slowly piecing together his formerly California-compliant AR-15. Nic has an extensive background working within the sliver screen industry as a video editor and if you're a frequent viewer of TFBTV, or even our second channel, TFBTV Show Time, you've probably seen some of Nic's fine handiwork. Today is just an excuse for Nic and me to catch up and talk about a few of the guns we've both been working on or hope to start working on in the review cycle over the last couple of months, please welcome back TFB Writer Nic L to the show!

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #71: Woodland Brutality 2023 Recap with Tom S May 25, 2023

On Today's episode of the podcast, I've brought on my good buddy Tom Symonds to talk about his experiences at this year's Woodland Brutality 2023! Tom is an avid firearms enthusiast and competitive shooter who has spent most of his life sketching, drawing, and dreaming about firearms, and military equipment. Today Tom and I reminisce about Woodland Brutality 2022, talk about his specific choices for firearms and equipment for Woodland Brulaity 2023, and of course, give everyone a general overview about what to expect at any brutality match they might show up to. Tom also takes some time to give us a detailed breakdown of each stage, and also an after-action report of his general performance and where he thought most people had trouble on that specific stage and what methods were used to overcome it. For those of you who haven't been to a brutality match, you should definitely check them out and consider participating - it's a great way to get into the competitive world with virtually any rifle and pistol! Please welcome my friend Tom Symonds to the show today as we recap Woodland Brutality 2023!

TFB Behind the Gun #70: Gun Shop Talk with Alex R from Guns.com May 18, 2023

On Today's episode of the TFB Behind The Gun Podcast, I've brought on a new friend of mine, Alex Revelie from Guns.com to talk a little about his experiences in the gun industry and his lead-up to his tenure at Guns.com. Guns.com started off much like TFB did as an online firearms publication talking about news within the firearms world. However, Guns.com soon opened up an online store selling firearms and has grown exponentially over the years and developed itself into one of the most unique online gun stores. Today Alex tells us all about how Guns.com works and how you might even be able to sell your own guns using their website! In addition, Alex shares a bit about his background and experience with guns including service in both the US Navy as well as military contracting! Please welcome Alex Revelie from Guns.com to the show!

TFB Behind the Gun #69: Nick Chen's Ass Fiasco feat. Brad w/ BFG May 11, 2023

On Today's episode of the TFB Behind the Gun Podcast, we've brought on two guests to talk about a recent training accident both myself and TFB's Nick C had to deal with. In addition to Nick C. Brad Gilpin Director of Medical Programming for Blue Force Gear will also be joining us to discuss the events of that day. To set the stage, a couple of months back Nick C and I as well as a few other friends were out gathering live-fire test footage of a DIY M202 FLASH Launcher made by Jonathan Wild, Long story short, some basic fundamental rules of range safety were violated and Nick C wound up getting a nice 2" hole in his rear end. Thankfully, Nick and I had both attended a trauma care class put on by Brad just a couple of years prior and his training helped us keep a bad situation from worsening. Today on the podcast we discuss the events of the accident, and how we responded, and then Brad wraps everything up by assessing our performance and giving us pointers on what we could have done better. Please welcome TFB's Nick C and Brad Gilpin from Blue Force Gear to the show!

Adequate training should be completed from a licensed professional before performing any first aid discussed in this podcast This is not medical advice.

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #68: An Important Aero Precision Update May 04, 2023

On Today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're checking in with Kirk from Aero Precision. It's no secret by now that some pretty heavy anti-2A legislation has passed in the beautiful state of Washington. This has led many people to question what the firearms companies who operate out of Washington, like Aero Precision, are going to do about the situation. Today Kirk and I discuss Aero's plans moving forward, their stance towards this particular piece of legislation, and of course their recently filed lawsuit against the Washington Assault Weapons Ban - they're not out of the fight yet.

In addition to news about the developing situation surrounding the Washington Assault Weapons Ban, Kirk and I also take some time to talk about some recently released products to the Aero Precision lineup like their new Cold Hammer Forced Barrels, which are a part of their new "Pro Series" of uppers. Please welcome once again, Kirk from Aero Precision!

Aero Precision Press Release on the Washington Assault Weapons Ban

Support Aero Precision Here

Aero Precision on Instagram

Aero Precision on Facebook

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #67: Preaching the Gospel of Red Dot w/ Scott Jedlinski Apr 27, 2023

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we've brought on the "Dot Father" himself to talk about pistol red dots. Scott "Jedi" Jedlinski is the owner and operator of Modern Samurai Project a traveling training company where the main focus of the classes is to become more proficient with handguns using red dot sights. In today's episode, Scott and I discuss a lot of the most commonly asked questions about red dot use and design including what he thinks of the current trend involving enclosed emitter red dots, whether or not he thinks window size matters, what the biggest pitfalls of some of the most popular designs are, and of course what he would do personally if he could design any red dot he wanted. Please welcome Scott Jedlinski to the TFB Behind the Gun Podcast!

To get info on classes including what to bring, pricing, and availability dates, you can visit any of the following websites:

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #66: Silver Screen Guns with Larry Zanoff Apr 20, 2023

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we've brought back Larry Zanoff! Larry is most well known for his work as a prop armorer for Independent Studio Services (ISS) - a full-service prop house that has a massive inventory of both inert and blank-firing prop guns used in all sorts of blockbuster movies as well as many smaller films and TV shows. Today, Larry shares some great stories and neat facts with us from his time behind the scenes in Hollywood as a prop armorer like his first ever movie he worked on with ISS, some of his favorite gun's he's customized for various TV shows, and movies, as well as some of the smaller projects he works on. He also shares with us some of the struggles that he's had working with various directors and writers who may not have a complete grasp on realistic uses or applications of firearms, and how he's seen a trend in the film industry that is starting to move the needle towards realistic depictions, rather than bombastic representations or cheap stand-ins. Towards the end of this episode, Larry also shares some thoughts on the "Rust Incident" that happened a while back and where he thinks things could have gone differently.

If you want to hear some more stories from Larry's various projects he's worked on with ISS you can check out TFBTV's interviews with Larry below:

TFBTV: The Real Guns of Firefly and Serenity

TFBTV: The Top 5 Most Expensive/Valuable Guns from Movies

Independent Studio Services Website

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #65 - Dave Matheny with Silencer Shop Apr 13, 2023

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun podcast, we've brought back Dave Matheny of Silencer Shop - one of the podcast's sponsors! We take time today to talk to Dave about the current state of the gun industry as it stands with the absolutely massive wave of anti-gun legislation being pushed through the country's court system. Despite what many of you may think, we seem to be on a good trajectory, at least according to our friend Dave. In this podcast, Dave and our host Pete take time to talk about how Silencer Shop has been doing in the year we've missed them over 2021's canceled shot show. Pete and Dave also take time to discuss the many benefits of just about any type of suppressor and how the growing backcountry hunting industry is shaping the future of suppressor designs. Please welcome back Dave Matheny of Silencer Shop to the show!

TFB Behind The Gun Podcast #64: Discussing Gun Patents with an Intellectual Property Lawyer Apr 06, 2023

On this episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're going to tackle a topic that has come up quite a lot in the last year - Intellectual Property rights. The US Patent system is something that is often misunderstood and even less so one that is taken advantage of by US Citizens when clear IP theft is being made. So in light of the recent lawsuits coming up between companies like Glock and Polymer80, or GWACS Armory and KE Arms, I thought it might be prudent to bring on a subject matter expert to talk about the basics of what the basics of patients are and how they apply in some of these specific cases we're seeing unfold before us.

Our guest and subject matter expert today is Dan Evans - an Intellectual Property lawyer who works for the boutique law firm McCoy Russell LLP an intellectual property firm based out of Portland Oregon. Dan has represented clients in a variety of patent matters including patent applications and prosecution, so he has the perfect type of understanding to break down these often complex legal matters that take place between firearms companies. Please welcome Mr. Dan Evens to the show!

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #63: Evan and Austin with Griffin Armament Mar 30, 2023

Today's Episode of the TFB Behind the Gun Podcast features Evan and Austin of Griffin Armament. Most of you will be familiar with Griffin Armament for its unique offerings within the suppressor/silencer sphere of the gun world. However, Griffin Armament has also tried its hands at making firearms as well and in today's episode, TFB Editor-in-Chief Pete speaks with Austin and Evan about what Griffin Armament does, their current lineup of products, and what they feel their products do best within this subset of the gun industry. They also take the time to discuss some subjects like the standards and rules that good suppressor manufacturers test their products to in order to give customers the best product for the money. Please welcome Evan and Austin to the TFB Behind the Gun Podcast!

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #62: An Angstadt Update with Rich Angstadt Mar 23, 2023

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we're taking time to catch up with another one of our good friends, Mr. Rich Angstadt of Angstadt Arms. Angstadt Arms has been in the business of producing small arms for the American Market since 2014, however, the Angstadt family of gunmakers has been producing handcrafted rifles for well over 100 years extending back to the 1700s and 1800s. Staying true to their name and purpose, today's Angstadt-made rifles are produced with the same blend of form and function, works that can be used to show off at the range, compete with, or use to defend your family or provide for them with. Today Rich Agnstadt and I take a bit of time to get caught up on what Angstadt Arms has been up to, what is down the road for them in terms of products, and also pick Rich's brain to see how he feels about the state of the 2nd Amendment as it stands in the United States today. Please welcome back the President of Angstadt Arms, Mr. Rich Angstadt.

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #61: Kyle Lynch explains the RIFLESPEED Adjustable Gas Block Mar 16, 2023

On today's episode of the TFB Behind the Gun Podcast, we've brought on the owner and inventor of the RIFLESPEED adjustable gas block - Kyle Lynch. On today's podcast, Pete and Kyle talk about the conception of the RIFLESPEED adjustable gas block system, how it works, what it's compatible with, and most importantly, who it's for. Kyle Lynch is a competitive shooter who has had the opportunity to compete in a wide variety of environments and situations, one of which leads directly to the creation of the Riflespeed system. Now Kyle is happy to not only offer his adjustable gas block - which is unique in that it requires no tools to adjust and can be adapted to almost any handguard length - he's also happy to bring customers complete upper recievers that are tailor-made to cater to those who want a turnkey solution for an AR upper featuring a useable adjustable gas block. You'll hear all this and much more from the man himself in today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast.

TFB Behind The Gun Podcast #60: Jason with Backup Tactical Mar 09, 2023

Our guest today on TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast is Jason with Backup Tactical. Jason is a great friend of TFB and also happens to be the President/Owner of Backup Tactical. Jason's company primarily focuses on making high-quality aftermarket barrels and thread protectors for many of today's most popular handguns. Today on the show Jason and I discuss some exciting new products coming from Backup Tactical as well as how Jason feels that the firearms industry is adapting and thriving in the current social and political climate we're experiencing in the United States.

If you'd like to check out some of Backup Tactical's products you can check out their website here, for some of Jason's own reviews and frequent product testing updates you can also check out his Instagram or his YouTube channel here.

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #59: Joel Hodgdon with Remington Ammo Mar 02, 2023

On Today's episode of the TFB Behind the Gun Podcast, we bring back the marketing director of Remington Ammunition, Joel Hodgdon. This time around Joel and Pete stop and talk a bit about basic terminology that often gets thrown around in the ammunition industry that many gun owners may not even be aware of or understand. In addition, Pete and Joel take a moment to talk about the state of the ammunition industry, what part Remington is playing in the current trends, as well as what ammunition types and calibers Americans have been buying the most over the last couple of years. Please welcome once again Joel Hodgdon from Remington Ammunition back to the show!

TFB Behind The Gun Podcast #58: Clark Aposhian at SHOT Show 2023 Feb 23, 2023

On today's episode of the TFB Behind the Gun Podcast, we're back again with Pete at SHOT Show 2023 to speak with Clark Aposhian. Clark is the chairman of the Board of the USSC, as well as the host of Gun Radio Utah. While Clark is mostly known for his political activism borne from his love of firearms, Clark is also an NRA Master Training Counselor and a Utah Certified Concealed Carry Instructor as well as a Certified NRA Law Enforcement Instructor. Clark uses his Credentials to train through his company FairWarning Training which offers basic to advanced tactical firearms training as well as weapons handling consulting for film and television productions. In today's episode, Pete and Clark discuss what gun he'd bring to the apocalypse, as well as some of his thoughts on the current direction of gun laws in this rapidly changing political landscape. Please welcome Clark Aposhian to the show!

TFB Behind The Gun Podcast #57: Open Source Defense Feb 16, 2023

Join us this week on TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast featuring once again our returning host Pete and his interviews with folks around the industry at SHOT Show 2023. Pete returns this week with BJ, Kareem, and Chuck from Open Source Defense to talk about their efforts to spread firearms ownership and enthusiasm across the nation. Open Source Defense is all about the gun rights and 0% about the culture war and welcomes all who want to exercise their 2nd amendment right. Today on the show the guys will discuss their preferred apocalypse weapons, and how to help bridge the gap between hardcore gun owners and those who might just be curious about them but may be intimidated by the idea. Please welcome the folks from Open Source Defense to the show.

TFB Behind the Gun Podcast #56 - Brandon Maddox with Silencer Central Feb 09, 2023

In this week's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we're back here at SHOT Show 2023 to bring you the latest from our friends and industry partners. This week Pete brings on our friend Brandon Maddox with Silencer Central to talk about the state of the company and talk shop about all things silencer! Brandon Maddox is the CEO of Silencer Shop and what sets them apart from most other silencer manufactuers is their dedication to simplifing the process of purchasing a suppressor. Silener Shop streamlines your silencer purchasing experience by removing a lot of hassles and confusing forms and instead allowing you to focus on what is most important - picking the right silencer for you and your firearms. Please welcome back once again Brandon Maddox from Silencer Central!

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