The GUNS Magazine Podcast

Latest Episodes:

#321 - Firearms Training: Essential Life Skill or Elite Club? Feb 06, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Guns Podcast U.S., hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington dive deep into the crucial topic of professional firearms training. While many gun owners believe growing up hunting or previous military experience is enough, Brent and Roy explain why shooting is a perishable skill that requires ongoing education and consistent tactical standards. They break down the three distinct tiers of training available to civilians: the local gun instructor, the itinerant traveling trainer, and prestigious academies like Gunsite and Thunder Ranch. Finding the right teacher can be daunting, so the hosts provide a no-nonsense guide on how to vet potential instructors and avoid the "elite club" mentality.

They discuss common industry pitfalls, including firearms instructor critiques, massive egos, and unsafe range behaviors. They also tackle the misconception that being a former Navy SEAL automatically makes someone a great teacher. Whether you are a brand new shooter looking for affordable shooting drills or an experienced CCW carrier seeking advanced tactics, this episode provides the roadmap to finding reputable, safe, and effective training while defending your 2nd Amendment rights.

Key Topics Covered: • The "Gatekeeping" Myth: Is high-level training a barrier or a necessity? • Vetting Instructors: How to spot "Tacticool" ego versus actual expertise. • Training Tiers: From local shops to world-class academies. • Skill Maintenance: Why your 10-year-old CCW qualification doesn't count today.

The Guns Podcast is presented by TangoDown. TangoDown® has been a leader in firearms parts and accessories for over two decades. From upgrades for everyday carry firearms to rifle accessories, TangoDown® has something for each firearm enthusiast. To learn more and shop the diverse product line, visit https://tangodown.com --

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#320 - 2026 SHOT Show: A Stabbing, Budget Suppressors and the Chinese Invasion Jan 30, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Guns Podcast U.S., hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington celebrate a massive milestone—surpassing one million certified audio downloads! After a quick victory lap, Brent dives into his fresh report from the floor of SHOT Show. He debunks the wild rumors regarding a stabbing incident near the venue and gives a boots-on-the-ground assessment of the show's attendance and atmosphere, noting a distinct downturn in the industry's energy compared to previous years.

The conversation shifts to the major hardware trends observed at the show. Brent and Roy discuss the explosion of the suppressor market, which is seeing a "race to the bottom" in pricing, and the influx of direct-from-manufacturer Chinese optics filling the "dungeon" (the lower level of the expo). They explore the implications of these commodities on American innovation and intellectual property. Finally, they touch on the renaissance of revolvers, specifically the painful reality of shooting Smith & Wesson's new ultra-lightweight magnums, and the enduring value of face-to-face networking in the gun community.

Key Takeways

• The Guns Podcast U.S. has officially surpassed 1 million IAB-certified audio downloads. • The rumored "stabbing at SHOT Show" was likely an unrelated altercation between gamblers near the venue entrance. • The overall vibe of SHOT Show suggested the gun industry is currently in a down cycle, with fewer exhibitors and R&D budgets shifted to maintenance. • Suppressors are becoming commoditized, with prices dropping significantly (some near $200), raising questions about the future of premium manufacturers. • There is a noticeable increase in Chinese optic manufacturers selling directly at the show, moving beyond just stealing IP to competing with budget products. • Smith & Wesson's new lightweight .357 Magnum revolvers are technically impressive but physically painful to shoot with full-house loads. • Despite market fluctuations, the "family reunion" aspect of industry gatherings remains a vital part of the gun culture.

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#319 The Best First .22 Rifle: Semi-Auto vs. Bolt-Action Jan 23, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of Guns Podcast U.S., hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington tackle one of the most common questions in the shooting world: What is the best first .22 rifle for a new shooter?

Whether you are buying for a child, a spouse, or yourself, the impulse is often to grab a popular semi-automatic like a Ruger 10/22. However, Roy and Brent argue why that might be a mistake that hinders long-term skill development.

They discuss the philosophy of "Slow down, Speed Racer," explaining how single-shot and bolt-action rifles force new shooters to focus on the essentials like sight picture and trigger squeeze, rather than just turning money into empty brass.

The duo also dives into the practical benefits of bolt-action rifles, including superior out-of-the-box accuracy and safety. Drawing on personal anecdotes ranging from Tai Chi classes to fishing mishaps, they illustrate the psychology of learning a new skill and why better equipment doesn't always equal better performance for a novice.

Tune in for this insightful conversation on building a solid foundation for a lifetime of shooting fun.

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#318 - Inside the 2026 SHOT Show Chaos: What You Don't See Jan 16, 2026

Show notes

It is the week that the firearms industry loves to hate: SHOT Show week. As Brent Wheat prepares to pack his bags for Las Vegas and Roy Huntington happily stays home, the duo dives deep into the reality of the world's largest shooting, hunting, and outdoor trade show. Far from just a display of new products, SHOT Show is a massive logistical beast where the actual business of buying and selling takes place behind closed doors, strictly off-limits to direct consumer sales.

In this episode, Brent and Roy explore the evolution of the show, specifically focusing on the shifting landscape of media coverage. They discuss the "cleanup" of credentials that reduced the flood of non-serious bloggers, the rise and fall of "trash-talking" influencers, and why manufacturers are returning to long-term relationships with trusted storytellers over frantic viral moments. Whether you are an industry insider or a shooting enthusiast curious about how the sausage is made, this episode pulls back the curtain on the chaotic 14-mile walks and 15-hour days that define SHOT Show.

Key Takeaways • The SHOT Show is the 8th largest trade show in the U.S., designed strictly for manufacturers to sell to distributors and dealers, not consumers. • The industry has cracked down on media credentials to reduce the number of hobbyist bloggers and influencers clogging up the show floor. • Manufacturers are shifting marketing strategies away from creators who rely on negativity and algorithms, favoring long-term professional relationships. • The 'frantic' style of covering every single new product release is diluting audiences, leading content creators to focus more on storytelling. • The physical toll of the show is immense, often requiring attendees to walk over 14 miles a day while navigating thousands of exhibitors. • Professionalism matters: Dressing and acting like a business professional significantly impacts access and success at industry events.

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#317- Inflation vs. Gunpowder: The Truth About Reloading Costs Jan 09, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Guns Podcast, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington tackle the age-old question: Is reloading ammunition still a good idea in today's economy? The conversation kicks off with a relic from the past — a can of Unique powder with a price tag from the 1970s — sparking a deep dive into inflation, purchasing power, and the comparative costs of components over the last 50 years. You might be surprised to learn how many labor hours are required to buy supplies today compared to decades ago.

Beyond the dollars and cents, Roy and Brent explore the intangible benefits of reloading. From chasing sub-MOA accuracy and tailoring loads for specific firearms to the simple therapeutic joy of crafting something with your hands, they discuss why "saving money" shouldn't be the only motivation.

Whether you are a seasoned handloader or considering buying your first single-stage press, this episode offers a balanced perspective on the value of rolling your own. Tune in for a candid discussion on the math, myths, and mechanics of reloading.

Key Takeaways

• When adjusted for inflation and wages, the cost of reloading components is relatively comparable to the 1970s. • Reloading equipment like presses pays for itself over time due to extreme longevity. • The primary value of reloading often shifts from saving money to achieving better accuracy and customization. • Beginners should start with affordable kits like the Lee Loader to test the waters before heavy investment. • Reloading allows for creating niche loads, such as low-recoil rounds for vintage lever-action rifles. • If you treat reloading purely as a mercenary money-saving venture, you might miss the enjoyment of the hobby. • Overall, reloading is often a financial 'wash' when factoring in time, but offers independence from supply chain shortages.

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#316 - Why Gun Forums Push New Shooters Away Jan 02, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Guns Podcast, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington take a sharp left turn from their planned topic to address a growing frustration in the shooting community: the toxicity of internet gun forums. With Roy now officially on board as co-host, the duo dissects the "keyboard warrior" mentality that plagues online discussions, where anonymity often emboldens users to tear down new shooters rather than offer helpful advice.

Roy shares personal anecdotes ranging from helpful car mechanics to the disastrous reception of the Thunder Ranch Special on a Smith & Wesson forum. The conversation explores the psychology behind online aggression, contrasting the loud, opinionated "experts" who have never handled the firearms they critique with the quiet, modest professionals who actually know the trade.

The episode serves as a call to action for decency and mentorship. Brant and Roy argue that the industry's future relies on welcoming new enthusiasts with patience and respect, rather than gatekeeping and elitism. Whether you are a veteran collector or a novice looking for advice, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on how to navigate—and improve—the culture of online firearms communities.

*Key Takeaways* • Anonymity often fuels aggression on internet forums, allowing people to behave in ways they never would face-to-face. • New shooters are frequently discouraged by toxic responses to basic questions, which hurts the growth of the gun community. • True experts and professionals are usually the most modest and helpful members of a community, while aggressive posters often mask a lack of real experience. • The "Thunder Ranch Special" story illustrates how even industry legends can be driven away by forum trolls. • Moderation is critical; forums that vet comments or enforce civility tend to be far more valuable resources. • Mentorship is the antidote to toxicity; experienced shooters should strive to build others up rather than tear them down.

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#315 - Are Shooters Better Today Than Ever Before? Dec 26, 2025

Show notes

Join host Brent Wheat and the newly appointed "official" co-host Roy Huntington for a thought-provoking post-Christmas discussion on this episode of the Guns Magazine Podcast. The duo tackles a controversial question: Are today's shooters actually more skilled than the marksmen of the past? They explore how technology, from high-tech optics to the internet, has revolutionized the learning curve for modern gun owners. While acknowledging the "Golden Age" of gear and information availability, Brent and Roy also examine the downsides of modern shooting culture. They discuss the high cost of entry, the "fanboy" mentality driven by social media algorithms, and the loss of the generalist outdoorsman. Whether you're a seasoned graybeard or a new shooter learning on YouTube, this episode offers a balanced perspective on the evolution of marksmanship and hunting culture.

Key Takeaways • Roy Huntington is finally named the "official" co-host following listener feedback. • The consensus is that modern shooters are generally more skilled due to better resources. • The internet has replaced magazines and mentors as the primary source of shooting knowledge, speeding up the learning curve. • Budget-friendly modern rifles and optics often outperform expensive custom gear from 40 years ago. • The "Fanboy" phenomenon is largely driven by internet algorithms that create echo chambers. • While skills and gear have improved, access to shooting land and hunting grounds has significantly decreased. • We are currently living in a "Golden Age" for firearms enthusiasts despite higher costs.

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#314 - Christmas Movies: The Worst Gun Myths on Screen Dec 19, 2025

Show notes

In this special holiday episode of The Guns Podcast, host Brent Wheat flies solo while Roy is on the road to break down the firearms, myths, and movie magic found in our favorite Christmas films. Whether you fall on the side that "Die Hard" is the ultimate Christmas movie or prefer the nostalgia of "A Christmas Story," Brent dives deep into the specific models, props, and glaring errors that appear on screen.

From the chopped HK94s standing in for MP5s at Nakatomi Plaza to the impossible physics of a hockey-puck flashbang, this episode covers the technical details gun nerds love to spot. Brent also discusses the modified prop guns in "Home Alone," the unspoken anti-gun messaging in "A Christmas Story," and how a minigun from "Predator" made its way into a Bill Murray holiday classic.

Join us for a fun, festive look at Hollywood's portrayal of firearms. While these movies provide endless entertainment, Brent reminds us why the silver screen makes for a terrible firearms instructor and how we can use these moments to teach real-world safety to the next generation of shooters.

Key Takeaways

- The MP5s used by terrorists in Die Hard were actually chopped HK94s because real MP5s were scarce in Hollywood at the time.

- Many background guns in movies like Die Hard are actually Japanese MGC model gun replicas, identifiable by allen screw in the forward assist.

- The "hockey puck" flashbang used in Die Hard does not exist in reality; it was a Hollywood invention for dramatic effect.

- The Daisy Red Ryder in A Christmas Story featured a compass in the stock, a feature that did not exist on the production air rifle of that era.

- In Home Alone, the sound of a handheld tape recorder playing a movie clip would be far too tinny to realistically simulate a Thompson submachine gun.

- The minigun used by Lee Majors in "Scrooged" is the exact same prop gun used in the movie "Predator."

- Hollywood movies often reinforce bad habits; never use entertainment as a substitute for actual firearms training.

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#313 - Best Christmas Guns: Should You Go Big or Small? Dec 12, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Guns Podcast U.S., hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington tackle the age-old question facing new shooters and gift-givers: What is the best first gun to buy? They challenge the common misconception that smaller, lightweight firearms are easier for beginners to handle, explaining why a larger frame often leads to a better learning experience and less recoil intimidation.

The duo also dives into the "Call of Duty" effect, discussing how video games give a false sense of competency regarding firearms handling, mechanics, and physics. Through personal anecdotes involving family members and friends, Roy and Brent illustrate the stark contrast between virtual shooting and the real-world skills required to operate a firearm safely.

Finally, with the holiday season in mind, the hosts discuss the ethics and logistics of gifting firearms. They offer practical advice on why surprising someone with a gun might not be the best idea and suggest alternative gifts like training or accessories that empower the new shooter to make their own informed decisions.

Key Takeaways

- Small, lightweight guns often have sharper recoil and are harder for beginners to control than medium or large-frame firearms.

- Avoid buying a firearm as a surprise gift unless you know exactly what the recipient wants; consider gift cards or training instead.

- Video game experience does not translate to real-world shooting skills or safety knowledge.

- A 4-inch K-frame revolver is often cited as an ideal learning tool due to its simplicity and manageable recoil.

- Complex semi-autos with external safeties can be overwhelming for a novice compared to the simplicity of a revolver.

- Gifting a gun to a child or novice implies a long-term commitment to mentoring them in safety and maintenance.

- Start beginners with basic tools and simple firearms before moving on to expensive, complex 'tactical' gear.

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#312- Slingshots to Blowguns: The Worst Self-Defense Ideas Debunked Dec 05, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Guns Podcast, host Brent Wheat and co-host Roy Huntington tackle the absurd and often dangerous world of gimmick self-defense weapons. Sparked by a ridiculous advertisement for a "tactical" laser-sighted slingshot, the duo dives into a laundry list of bad ideas, ranging from bows and arrows to flare guns and blowguns. With decades of law enforcement experience between them, they explain exactly why these items should remain toys rather than life-saving tools.

However, it's not all about what doesn't work. Brent and Roy pivot to discussing "Plan B" options that actually have merit when a firearm isn't available or appropriate. They explore the practical applications of black powder revolvers, the surprising effectiveness of a sturdy walking cane, and the realities of carrying a knife for defense. They also provide a nuanced look at pepper spray, discussing its tactical advantages and the inevitable reality of cross-contamination.

Finally, the conversation covers the concept of the "Use of Force Continuum." The hosts discuss how intermediate tools like expandable batons or pepper spray can de-escalate situations before lethal force becomes necessary. Whether you are looking to validate your skepticism about mall-ninja gear or find a legitimate backup defensive tool, this episode offers a blend of humor and hard-earned street wisdom.

Takeaways

Slingshots and blowguns are recreational toys, not viable self-defense tools, regardless of laser sights or marketing claims.
While bows and crossbows are lethal, they are impractical for self-defense due to size and reload speed compared to modern options.
Flare guns are designed for signaling, not stopping threats, and often fail to penetrate or incapacitate effectively.
A sturdy walking cane is an excellent "Plan B" defensive tool that is legal to carry almost anywhere, including airplanes.
Knives should be considered a last resort; the primary rule of a knife fight is to avoid being in one, as getting cut is almost guaranteed.
Pepper spray is a valid intermediate option, but users must be prepared for the reality that they will likely be affected by the spray as well.
Understanding the "Use of Force Continuum" allows for options like de-escalation and less-lethal tools before resorting to a firearm.

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