The GUNS Magazine Podcast

Latest Episodes:

#311- When to Hold 'Em, When to Fold 'Em: The Art of Disengagement Nov 28, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Guns Podcast U.S., host Brent Wheat and special guest Roy Huntington dive deep into the critical decision-making process of self-defense. Taking a cue from the classic Kenny Rogers song, they discuss knowing "when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em" regarding lethal force. The conversation challenges the "keyboard commando" mentality, emphasizing that carrying a firearm does not obligate you to be a hero in every situation.

Drawing from decades of combined law enforcement experience, Brent and Roy explore the "Scared Bunny Defense" and why evading a threat is often the superior tactical choice over engaging. They analyze real-world scenarios—from domestic disputes in parking lots to potential active shooter situations—to illustrate the legal and physical risks of inserting yourself into third-party conflicts. The episode also covers Jeff Cooper's Color Codes of Awareness and the stark difference between shooting paper targets and handling the adrenaline of a real-life confrontation.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

- The "Scared Bunny Defense"—retreating or avoiding conflict entirely—is often the most tactical and legally sound option for concealed carriers.

- Carrying a gun requires leaving your ego at home; engaging in a conflict just to save face can lead to prison or death.

- Possessing a firearm does not equal having the training to use it effectively; without stress inoculation, shooters often revert to zero skills.

- Utilize Jeff Cooper's Color Codes (White, Yellow, Orange, Red) to maintain situational awareness and avoid being caught unprepared.

- Intervening in third-party situations (like domestic disputes or robberies) exposes you to massive liability and physical danger often outweighing the benefits.

- Distraction techniques, such as throwing a fake money clip or verbally de-escalating, can be effective alternatives to drawing a weapon.

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#310- Digital Terrorism: The War on Gun Content Nov 21, 2025

Show notes

In this urgent episode of the Guns Podcast, host Brent Wheat addresses the ongoing and undeclared war against firearms content creators on a well-known major video platform. Brent details the recent community guideline strikes leveled against the podcast for older, previously compliant videos—a tactic he describes as "digital terrorism." He breaks down the timeline of events, including a strike for a historical review of a Single Action Army revolver, and explains how retroactive enforcement creates an impossible environment for creators to navigate. Beyond the immediate channel strikes, Brent analyzes the broader strategy at play: removing financial incentives to dry up content, which ultimately aims to starve the gun culture itself. He highlights the glaring double standards where mainstream media outlets can skirt rules that crush independent gun channels. Finally, Brent discusses the future of the show, the potential move to alternative platforms like Rumble and issues a call to action for listeners and politicians to protect free speech regarding the Second Amendment.

Key Takeaway

Brent's definition of "digital terrorism" and how retroactive enforcement of new rules on old videos traps content creators.
The specific timeline of strikes received by the Guns Podcast US in 2025.
The ultimate strategy of anti-gun groups: de-monetize content to kill the culture and weaken the Second Amendment.
Examples of double standards where mainstream media outlets (like Wired) are allowed to show 3D printed guns while gun channels are penalized for historical reviews.
The "death penalty" policy for channels receiving three strikes in 90 days.
The necessity of political pressure from the administration and Congress to ensure fair treatment on the major platforms
How to find the Guns Podcast if it is removed from the current video platform.

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#309 - One Gun, One Cartridge: The Ultimate Debate Nov 14, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we dive into the timeless shooter's question: If you could only have one gun in one cartridge for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Drawing on decades of field experience, practical know-how, and a heavy dose of real-world logic, the discussion ranges from rimfire realities to centerfire versatility and what actually matters in a "one-gun" scenario. Along the way, we get into squirrel hunting, cartridge capability, recoil management, ammo availability, and what separates theoretical choices from practical ones.

Whether you're a survivalist, hunter, prepper, minimalist, or just love a spirited debate, this episode gets right to the heart of the "ultimate gun choice" question.

Key Takaways

Why rimfires still matter — and where they fall short
The gray squirrel factor: realistic field performance
Centerfire cartridges that punch above their weight
Balancing recoil, ammo cost, and availability
What "one gun" really means in practical terms
Survival vs. hunting vs. everyday versatility
The emotional vs. logical sides of cartridge choice
Real-world examples from the field
How experience shapes the "best gun" answer

EPISODE SPONSOR

The Guns Podcast 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.

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#308- Gunsmith or 'Gun Mechanic': You Decide Nov 07, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington discuss the distinctions between gunsmithing and being a "gun mechanic," emphasizing the skills, training, and experience required to be considered a true gunsmith. They explore the importance of proper evaluation of gunsmiths, the journey of becoming a skilled gunsmith, and the challenges faced by aspiring gunsmiths. The conversation is filled with real-life examples and practical advice for those interested in the field.

Takeaways

A gunsmith is more than just a parts assembler.
Building ARs does not equate to being a gunsmith.
Diagnosis and repair are key skills for gunsmithing.
Experience and training are crucial in gunsmithing.
Not all who claim to be gunsmiths are qualified.
Proper tools are essential for any gunsmithing work.
Learning from mistakes is part of the journey.
Aspiring gunsmiths should seek mentorship and apprenticeship.
Gunsmithing requires humility and a willingness to learn.
Passion and patience are vital for success in gunsmithing.

EPISODE SPONSOR

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#307 "The Emperor Has No Clothes" - Rethinking the .327 Federal Magnum Oct 31, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Guns Podcast, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington delve into the controversial .327 Magnum cartridge, discussing its merits and drawbacks. They explore the realities of recoil and muzzle blast, particularly in home defense scenarios, and emphasize the importance of real-world shooting experience. The conversation highlights the need for informed decisions regarding caliber choices and the impact of shooting dynamics in high-stress situations.

Takeaways

The .327 Magnum has a dedicated fanbase but is often misunderstood.
Recoil can significantly affect shooting performance, especially in defensive situations.
Home defense requires careful consideration of caliber and its effects on hearing and vision.
Real-world shooting experience is crucial for understanding firearm effectiveness.
Placement of shots is more important than caliber size in defensive situations.
Muzzle blast and recoil can impair your ability to respond effectively in a crisis.
Training in dynamic environments can reveal the limitations of theoretical knowledge.
The .327 Magnum may be more suitable for small game hunting than self-defense.
Shooting without hearing protection can lead to permanent damage.
Understanding your firearm's capabilities and limitations is essential for effective use.

EPISODE SPONSOR

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#306 - The Versatile .410: A Hidden Gem Oct 24, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Guns Podcast, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington delve into the often-overlooked .410 shotgun. They discuss its history, versatility, and the evolution of ammunition that has made it a relevant choice for modern shooters. The conversation covers the .410's effectiveness in hunting, home defense, and its appeal to new shooters. They also touch on the cost of .410 ammunition, the benefits of reloading, and the future of the .410 in the firearms market.

Takeaways

The .410 shotgun has a rich history and unique appeal.
New ammunition technology has revitalized interest in the .410.
The .410 is effective for hunting small game like doves and squirrels.
The Judge revolver is a popular choice for home defense with .410.
Reloading .410 shells can be cost-effective and fun.
The .410 is an excellent choice for teaching new shooters.
Skeet shooting with a .410 can be a rewarding experience.
The cost of .410 ammunition has increased significantly over the years.
The .410 shotgun is versatile and suitable for various shooting applications.

EPISODE SPONSOR

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#305- Bottom Line: The Truth of Pistol Caliber Carbines Oct 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington discuss the relevance and advantages of pistol caliber carbines (PCCs) in today's firearms landscape. They explore their effectiveness for home defense, the importance of training, and the simplicity of operation that makes them suitable for novice shooters. The conversation also touches on real-world experiences with firearms, the significance of choosing the right weapon for self-defense, and the need for ongoing practice and familiarity with firearms.

Takeaways

Pistol caliber carbines can be polarizing in the shooting community.
They are often overlooked in favor of short-barreled AR platforms.
PCCs can be effective for home defense, especially for novices.
Shooting a PCC at night can be less disorienting than other firearms.
Training and familiarity with firearms are crucial for effective use.
Real-world experiences highlight the effectiveness of PCCs in various situations.
Choosing the right firearm should consider comfort and ease of use.
Simplicity in firearm operation is essential for self-defense situations.
It's important to focus on training rather than just the firearm itself

EPISODE SPONSOR

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#304 Old-School Cops - Stories of Grit, Guns, and Gut Instinct Oct 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Guns Podcast, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington delve into the politically-incorrect history of policing, sharing humorous anecdotes and reflecting on how law enforcement has evolved over the years. They discuss the impact of technology on policing, the changes in community interactions, and the differences in policing styles between past and present. The conversation is filled with engaging stories that highlight the challenges and experiences of law enforcement officers.

Takeaways

The policing methods of the past were often unprofessional by today's standards.
Technology has significantly changed the way police work is conducted.
Community policing was more prevalent in the past, fostering better relationships with the public.
Humorous anecdotes from law enforcement provide insight into the challenges faced by officers.
The reliance on technology can sometimes hinder effective policing.
Officers used to have more discretion in handling situations compared to today.
Many officers today lack the experience of dealing with physical altercations.
The podcast highlights the importance of understanding the context of police actions

EPISODE SPONSOR

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#303 The Truth About Cop Firearms Training: Myths, Failures, and Real Stories Oct 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington bust one of the biggest myths about law enforcement: that every police officer is a firearms expert.

Drawing from decades of service as cops, trainers, and gun writers, they pull back the curtain on the reality of police firearms proficiency — or the lack thereof. From shocking stories of rusted-in revolvers and mismatched ammo to the harsh truth about agency qualification standards, they reveal why most officers fall far short of public expectations. And more importantly, they explain what this means for concealed carriers, why complacency is so dangerous, and how regular, disciplined training — not a badge — defines true firearms expertise.

Key Takeaways

• The Big Myth: The public assumes cops are gun experts, but most only meet the bare minimum standards. • 10-80-10 Rule: About 10% of officers are experts, 80% do the minimum, and 10% should not carry at all. • Agency Reality: With 15,000+ mostly small agencies nationwide, qualifications are often just 25 rounds once or twice a year. • Horror Stories: Real cases include a revolver rusted into its holster, a "one-shot" SWAT 1911, and a detective's revolver loaded with random desk-drawer ammo. • Complacency Kills: Shooting is a perishable skill—both officers and armed citizens must avoid complacency and train consistently. • Dry Fire Works: Tools like Mantis X10 make home practice effective for maintaining fundamentals. • Personal Responsibility: Unlike officers, private citizens can't fall back on minimum standards—your life depends on your training.

EPISODE SPONSOR

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#302 - Timeless Firearms: 1911, Glock, Winchester and More Sep 26, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Guns Podcast, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington dive into the enduring world of classic firearms that continue to shape modern shooting. From legendary handguns like the 1911 and Glock to iconic revolvers by Smith & Wesson and Colt, they explore why these designs have stood the test of time. The discussion also covers battle-proven military rifles such as the AR-15 and AK-47, as well as historic models like the Mauser 98 and Winchester 94.

Listeners will learn how these firearms blend tradition, reliability, and innovation—making them just as relevant today as when they were first introduced.

Key Takeaways

Why timeless firearms remain popular for reliability, simplicity, and performance.
The 1911 as the ultimate example of a classic handgun still trusted worldwide.
How Glock pistols became a dominant force in the concealed carry and duty markets.
The enduring appeal of Smith & Wesson and Colt revolvers.
Why the AR-15 and AK-47 remain cultural and functional cornerstones.
The Mauser 98's influence on modern bolt-action rifles.
How the Winchester 94 preserves the heritage of lever-action rifles.

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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Make sure you check out GUNSmagazine.com and AmericanHandgunner.com for all your favorite writers and stories, and visit the podcast website at https://gunspodcast.us for links to all our shows, news and merch!

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