The GUNS Magazine Podcast

Latest Episodes:

#360 - What Old School Gun Writers Got Wrong (And Right!) Nov 06, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Guns Podcast U.S., hosts Brent T. Wheat and Roy Huntington take a deep dive into the evolution of gun journalism. From the legendary era of print icons like Jack O'Connor and Elmer Keith to the fast-paced, algorithm-driven world of modern YouTube gun influencers, we explore what the "old school" writers got right and where their perspectives were limited by the technology and information of their time.

Join us as we discuss the shift from deep-dive, personal experimentation in gun writing to today's click-driven content landscape. We break down the myths of "brush-busting" cartridges, the evolution of optics, and why, despite the technological advancements we enjoy today, there is a fundamental loss of storytelling and expertise in the digital age. Whether you are a long-time enthusiast or new to the world of shooting, this conversation offers a nostalgic yet critical look at how we learn about the gear we carry.

Key Takeaways

· Old school gun writers paved the way for modern shooting knowledge through personal, hands-on experimentation.

· The transition from print magazines to digital media has led to a focus on surface-level specs rather than deep, personal storytelling.

· Many "myths" in the past, such as the effectiveness of brush-busting cartridges, were corrected over time through better testing.

· The quality of modern optics and ammunition has made shooting precision more accessible than it was in the era of early, mass-market equipment.

· Modern gun reviews often rely on press releases and recycled data rather than the first-hand, rigorous testing performed by classic writers.

· Shot placement and practice remain the two most critical factors in shooting performance, a truth emphasized by masters of the past.

Support by Ruger

The Guns Podcast US is supported by Ruger Firearms. Ruger has been trusted for generations to deliver rugged, reliable firearms built in America. From hunting rifles to everyday carry handguns, Ruger sets the standard for durability and performance.

Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email editor@gunspodcast.us. Also, make sure you visit GunsPodcast.US for Merch and More!

Special Episode - The Gunsight Service Pistol: 50 Years of History | Ken Campbell Nov 06, 2026

Show notes

The Gunsight Service Pistol has a history spanning nearly five decades, rooted in the firearms philosophy of legendary instructor Jeff Cooper.

In this special episode of Guns Podcast US, Brent Wheat sits down with Gunsight CEO Ken Campbell to explore the origins and evolution of the GSP, from its early development in the Gunsight gunsmith shop to its various manufacturers and modern iterations.

Their conversation covers:

Jeff Cooper's original vision for the Gunsight Service Pistol
The design characteristics that defined the original GSP
The history of its manufacture by Auto-Ordnance, Springfield Armory and Colt
The return of GSP production to Gunsight's in-house gunsmithing operation
The evolution of the 1911 platform and the emergence of modern 2011-style pistols
How changing technology, including pistol-mounted optics, has influenced handgun design
Ken's personal experiences with the GSP over several decades

It's a conversation about firearms history, design philosophy, and the continuing influence of Jeff Cooper's ideas on modern handgun development.

#359 - Are Custom Guns Worth the Money? (It's Personal) Oct 30, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of The Guns Podcast, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington dive deep into the fascinating, and often polarized, world of custom firearms. Why do high-end custom guns trigger such vitriolic reactions in online comment sections and through good old-fashioned hate mail? Is it simply about price, or is there a deeper psychological phenomenon at play?

We break down the three common types of reactions: the appreciative dreamer, the defensive budget-shooter, and the 'King of the Grumpy Forest.' We also discuss the importance of pride of ownership, craftsmanship, and why, like the classic Corvette versus pickup truck analogy, there is room for both in the shooting community. If you've ever felt the urge to leave a negative comment on a high-end gear review, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways

· Custom guns are about pride of ownership and celebrating craftsmanship, not just superior function.

· People often attack luxury items to justify their own financial limitations or choices.

· The 'Corvette vs. Pickup' analogy applies: different tools serve different purposes, and both are valid.

· There is a difference between constructive criticism and 'grumpy' vitriol driven by resentment.

· The cost of a high-quality item is long forgotten, but the joy of ownership lasts forever.

· The shooting community is at its best when we respect all choices, from budget-friendly options to premium custom builds.

Support by Ruger

Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email editor@gunspodcast.us. Also, make sure you visit GunsPodcast.US for Merch and More!

#358 - Is 'Peacocking' Ruining Responsible Gun Ownership? Oct 23, 2026

Show notes

In this eye-opening episode of the Guns Podcast US, host Brent T. Wheat and co-host Roy Huntington dive deep into a startling trend Brent witnessed firsthand at a local gun show. After renting table space, Brent observed a noticeable shift by a certain subset of attendees away from traditional shooting sports, hunting, and self-defense and toward flash, bling, and fashion accessory culture. From flashy compact AR-style firearms and Glock handguns with custom magazine setups to suburban youth adopting a Grand Theft Auto-inspired aesthetic, the hosts analyze what this cultural shift means for the future of firearms ownership.

Brent and Roy draw upon their extensive backgrounds as retired law enforcement officers—holding what they joke as 'PhDs in street psychology'—to discuss the line between genuine interest in shooting and intimidation-focused 'peacocking.' They examine how marketing, video games, pop culture, and social media have transformed firearms from functional tools into one-dimensional lifestyle statements, and why normalizing irresponsible image-obsessed behavior poses a significant threat to the broader gun community and Second Amendment advocacy.

Finally, the hosts offer critical advice to both the firearms industry and traditional gun owners. While rejecting the glorification of flashy, irresponsible behavior, they emphasize the importance of remaining welcoming to anyone who steps up to learn about firearm safety, responsible gun ownership, and marksmanship. Tune in for a candid, thought-provoking conversation on where gun culture is heading and how responsible shooters should respond.

Key Takeaways

● Firearms as Fashion Accessories: A growing subculture treats guns—such as flashy AR pistols and blinged-out Glocks—as lifestyle fashion statements rather than practical tools.

● The Influence of Pop Culture & Media: Video games, music videos, and social media heavily influence youth to adopt aggressive or urban 'bad boy' aesthetics around firearms.

● Street Psychology Insights: Retired law enforcement experience highlights the difference between genuine firearms enthusiasts and individuals using weapons primarily for posturing and public intimidation.

● The Risk of 'Lifestyle' Marketing: Reducing firearm ownership strictly to a 'lifestyle' or aesthetic choice can attract one-dimensional engagement that harms the industry's image.

● Threat to Second Amendment Rights: Public missteps or irresponsible behavior by image-focused gun owners give anti-gun advocates ammunition to push for bans and restrictions.

● Welcoming Responsible Learners: Traditional shooters should resist normalizing posturing, but remain open and welcoming to anyone genuinely seeking education on gun safety and marksmanship.

Support by Ruger

Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email editor@gunspodcast.us. Also, make sure you visit GunsPodcast.US for Merch and More!

#357- Breaking news: Ruger Armageddon?!? Oct 15, 2026

Show notes

In this special breaking news early episode of the Guns Podcast US, hosts Brent T. Wheat and Roy Huntington tackle the viral internet rumors claiming that Ruger is discontinuing many of their most popular products. After investigating the claims and the sources behind them, Brent and Roy explain why this panic might be much ado about nothing and they discuss how to identify misinformation in the industry.

Listen in as they analyze the anatomy of a viral internet story, the role of AI in spreading unverified rumors, and why you should wait for official manufacturer communications before believing everything you read on forums or social media. They also provide insight into how publicly traded companies manage production and why rumors often circulate without any basis in fact.

Key Takeaways

· The viral rumors regarding Ruger discontinuing many of their most popular SKUs lack credible, official sources.

· Much of the 'evidence' circulating online appears to be AI-generated or based on misinterpretations of search results.

· Industry professionals emphasize that companies frequently adjust their product catalogs for business reasons, which does not necessarily signal a crisis.

· Official press releases from major manufacturers typically contain specific identifiers, contact information, and clear, professional language, unlike the documents currently circulating.

· It is crucial to approach sensationalist claims found on forums or social media with extreme skepticism, especially in the era of AI-generated content.

· A publicly traded company like Ruger has clear channels for announcing major shifts in operations, none of which were utilized for these alleged changes.

EDITORIAL DISCLAIMER: Ruger had no editorial control over the content of this episode. The views and commentary expressed are those of the hosts.

Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email editor@gunspodcast.us. Also, make sure you visit GunsPodcast.US for Merch and More!

#356- Why You Hate Shooting Practice (And How to Fix It) Oct 09, 2026

Show notes

Do you dread going to the range? Does your practice session feel like another item on your to-do list? In this episode, your host Brent Wheat and co-host Roy Huntington dive deep into the psychology of shooting practice, exploring why so many shooters view range time as a chore rather than a joy.

We discuss how to shift your mindset to avoid burnout, why "perfect practice" is more than just burning through ammo, and how to stay present in the moment to accelerate your learning curve. Whether you are struggling with performance anxiety or just feel stuck in a rut, this episode offers a fresh perspective on how to get more out of your range sessions and reignite your passion for the sport.

Key Takeaways

· Shift your perspective from 'I have to practice' to 'I get to have fun shooting.'

· Avoid the trap of mindlessly burning ammo; practice should be intentional and deliberate.

· Be present during your range sessions—put away the phone, stop worrying about social media, and focus on the mechanics and enjoyment.

· If you are feeling frustrated or anxious, it is okay to stop, take a break, and reset your mindset.

· View challenges as an opportunity for growth, a concept inspired by Stoic philosophy.

· Learning curves improve drastically when you are actually enjoying the process of improvement.

Support by Ruger

For merch and more, visit http://GunsPodcast.US

#355- 'Good Enough' Isn't the Enemy Oct 02, 2026

Show notes

In this candid and thought-provoking episode of the Guns Podcast US, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington tackle the modern epidemic of consumer dissatisfaction within the shooting community. Are you constantly feeling like you need the latest gear to be part of the 'cool crowd'? Do you find yourself spiraling down a rabbit hole of internet forums, second-guessing your purchases, and falling prey to the fear of missing out (FOMO)?

Brent and Roy explore the psychological toll of endless information access and the marketing tactics that prey on our need for validation. This episode serves as a refreshing reality check for anyone tired of 'gear anxiety'—reminding us that the joy of shooting is about the experience, not just having the newest, most expensive equipment. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a newcomer, this conversation will change how you view your next firearm or tool purchase.

Key Takeaways

· The internet has shifted the perspective of 'good enough' to 'nothing is ever good enough.'

· Consumer neurosis occurs when we seek online validation for purchases rather than trusting our experience.

· FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) is a key marketing driver designed to make consumers feel inadequate.

· Constant research into gear often replaces the actual hobby of shooting, leading to dissatisfaction.

· True expertise is built on experience, not just consuming hours of social media content.

· Focusing on the 'why'—the actual goal of the activity—is the key to finding satisfaction with the gear you already own.

Support by Ruger

Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email editor@gunspodcast.us. Also, make sure you visit GunsPodcast.US for Merch and More!

#354- Suppressors: Myths Busted and What the Ruling Changes Sep 25, 2026

Show notes

Are you confused by the conflicting headlines surrounding suppressor laws and the recent Texas court ruling? In this episode of the Guns Podcast, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington cut through the misinformation, rumors, and panic-induced reporting to explain what actually changed—and what didn't—for the average gun owner.

In this educational episode, the guys dive deep into the world of firearm suppressors, why they have been misunderstood for decades, and how they are becoming more accessible and affordable than ever before. From debunking myths about "silent" guns to discussing why they are the ultimate tool for training new shooters, this episode provides a grounded look at the evolving landscape of firearm accessories.

Finally, we break down the practical steps of purchasing a suppressor in today's market, the importance of family trusts, and why owning one is about more than just technology—it's about reclaiming your freedom. Don't let fear hold you back; get the facts you need to make informed decisions for your own shooting experience.

Key Takeaways

· The recent Texas court ruling on suppressors does not mean all NFA rules are gone; context and jurisdiction matter.

· Suppressors are more accessible than ever, and the purchasing process has been significantly simplified by modern retail solutions.

· Suppressors do not 'silence' a firearm; they mitigate muzzle blast, making training safer and more pleasant for new shooters.

· Do not get bogged down in microscopic decibel differences between brands; in the real world, the benefits are nearly universal across most units.

· Purchasing a suppressor through a family trust is a crucial step for estate planning, ensuring your accessories can be passed on to your family.

· Suppressors are essentially a 'good neighbor' accessory, helping to manage noise levels in populated shooting areas.

Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email editor@gunspodcast.us. Also, make sure you visit GunsPodcast.US for Merch and More!

#353 - 3 Simple Cabinet Making Secrets for Better Shooting Sep 18, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Guns Podcast, host Brent Wheat and "celebrated" co-host Roy Huntington break down three powerful, universal lessons from the world of master cabinet making that can instantly transform your shooting performance. Often overlooked by those chasing 'high-speed, low-drag' tactics, these foundational principles focus on respect for the craft, the value of deliberate repetition, and the critical importance of obsessing over the basics.

Drawing parallels between high-end furniture building and firearms proficiency, Roy explains why slowing down, focusing on the fundamentals, and adopting a 'point and confirm' mindset—inspired by Japanese industrial safety standards—can prevent dangerous mistakes and elevate your skills. Whether you are a beginner or a veteran marksman, this episode offers a Zen-like approach to shooting that prioritizes long-term improvement over quick fixes.

Key Takeaways

· Respect the craft: Shooting is an art and skill that deserves the same level of care as high-end furniture making.

· Repetition builds perfection: Don't just burn through ammo; use every shot as a deliberate, purposeful practice session.

· Obsess over the basics: Professionalism comes from mastering fundamental sight alignment, stance, and trigger control, not from complex tricks.

· Practice deliberate, slow shooting to diagnose accuracy issues before moving to speed.

· Safety check: Even mundane tasks benefit from a formal 'safety brief' or checklist to prevent catastrophic human error.

Support by Ruger

Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email editor@gunspodcast.us

#352- Stop Hoarding Gun Gear: How to Simplify Your Shooting Life Sep 11, 2026

Show notes

Are you a shooter who has accumulated a garage full of gear you haven't touched in years? In this episode of the Guns Podcast US, host Brent T. Wheat and co-host Roy Huntington tackle a topic that hits close to home for many in the firearm community: hoarding.

We explore the psychological burden of holding onto excess gear, the reality of downsizing for older shooters, and why the "I might use this someday" excuse is keeping you from having true freedom. From cleaning out storage units to the tough truth about what your children actually want from your collection, join us for a candid discussion on finding the happy medium between being prepared and being a hoarder.

Key Takeaways

· Most shooters are prone to hoarding under the guise of being 'prepared' for future scenarios.

· Excess stuff can be a mental burden and a source of unnecessary stress.

· Your children likely do not want the vast majority of your accumulated 'stuff'; they value cherished memories over physical objects.

· A great test for whether to keep an item is: Have I used this in the last five years?

· Giving unused gear to someone who can truly use it provides more personal satisfaction than selling it for pennies on the dollar.

· Don't fall victim to 'good marketing copy' that convinces you that you need the latest gear when you don't.

EPISODE SPONSOR

The Guns Podcast US is presented by Ruger Firearms. Ruger has been trusted for generations to deliver rugged, reliable firearms built in America. From hunting rifles to everyday carry handguns, Ruger sets the standard for durability and performance. Explore the full lineup and discover what makes Ruger a name shooters trust at Ruger.com.

Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email editor@gunspodcast.us

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