TFB Behind the Gun Podcast

On today’s episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun podcast, we welcome back Jonathan Wild from Wild Arms Research and Development to discuss his latest—and fastest—rocket project to date: the Hypervelocity Rocket. Unlike conventional anti-aircraft munitions that rely on explosives, the Hypervelocity Rocket is designed to incapacitate targets through sheer kinetic energy, traveling at speeds exceeding 10,000 feet per second (approximately Mach 9). To bring this project to life, Jonathan has undertaken extensive research, including submitting official Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests to uncover details about this once-classified initiative that has remained dormant in sealed government archives for year...

On today’s episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun podcast, I’m joined by Alex Whiteside and Luke Diamond of TANDEMKROSS. Known for their huge lineup of over 250 aftermarket parts for competitive and recreational shooters, TANDEMKROSS is stepping up their game with the new ADX receiver. This receiver is a game-changer, letting DIY builders put together a complete 10/22-style rifle using only TANDEMKROSS parts. It’s ambidextrous with a patent-pending left-hand charging handle that locks in place, making reloads faster and easier, plus it’s built tough with a steel insert and a durable Teflon-infused finish to make it an actu...

Today’s episode of TFB’s behind the podcast features Kevin and Bryce from The Carry Handle Podcast, as well as a new guest, Scout Trooper. Today we’ll be talking about something that is right up Scout Trooper’s alley - movie, TV, and video game guns. Many of our generation who grew up watching 80s action movies, playing early shooter video games, and soaking up all of the great cop TV shows that the 90s had to offer love guns because of these things. Today we’ll be discussing our favorite media representations of guns, our least favorite...

Today on TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, we’ve brought back on Mr. Mike Slack from Engaged Industries to talk about some new developments, testing, and news he’s got from his virtually brand new suppressor company. Mike’s flagship suppressors, Operator 5.56 and Recon 7.62, use the unique VLB25 baffle system, which uses vacuum expansion design to help reduce the amount of gas coming back to the shooter. In addition, Mike’s suppressors can also use his unique StealthLOK QD system, which eliminates carbon lock, is much quieter than other locking mechanisms, and also requires barely a ½ twist to be locked i...

On today's episode of the TFB Behind the Gun Podcast, we have the pleasure of speaking with Firearms Historian Mr. Mike Helms. Mike specializes not just in firearms history, but has also been an expert witness in several court cases, and he's also appeared in a couple of episodes of the TV Show Swamp People, of course, for his firearms expertise. Today, Mike is going to share a slightly longer and more detailed version of a presentation he's given before on the history of Smith & Wesson. Today, we'll dive into the history of one of America's oldest and longest-running...

Suppose you've ever wanted to get your hands on a G36, or at least something that almost perfectly clones a G36. In that case, you'll be interested to hear that Bo and his team over at S5 Tactical are carrying the torch for fans of one of H&K's most popular unobtainium rifles. S5 Tactical is a firearms manufacturer that produces G36-style receivers under the product name SG-36. While this isn't really anything new, the receivers previously sold by another company, DEF, are now being made with the years of injection molding expertise that Bo and his team...

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we have the pleasure of speaking with Phillip Jones from GAIM Virtual Shooting. Like ACE VR, GAIM is a peripheral-enhanced virtual reality shooting simulator that has a heavy emphasis on training. However, unlike ACE, which is almost entirely focused on practical handgun shooting, GAIM is instead focused on the broader aspect of firearms training and familiarization. Interestingly enough, GAIM was originally developed by Aimpoint as a red dot training simulator for rifles and pistols. Today, combined with the Meta Quest VR system, GAIM makes use of a combination of Bluetooth...

On this week's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we have an opportunity to talk to one of the product developers from Leupold Optics. Based here in my home state of Oregon, Leupold Optics helped pioneer both weatherproof hunting scopes, as well as tactical military scopes and red dots. Our Guest today, Nic, shares some of that rich Leupold history with us, as well as helps me walk through some of Leupolds current and past products, with the aim of cluing us in on what's coming out next from Leupold - an entirely new generation of red dot...

Today, long-time friend of the blog and podcast and current TFB contributor, Kirk, joins us to talk about one of his favorite subjects - Shotguns. Shotguns are an often underloved sector of the firearms industry these days, and today we’re going to take some time to talk about what’s new in the world of shotguns. I’ll be discussing some recent experience I’ve had with some semi and pump-action shotguns at Thunder Ranch, and Kirk brings his decades of expertise with shotguns to shed some light on what some of the best (and worst) examples of shotguns...

Today’s episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast features Harrison Benson of Double Tap Coalition. Double Tap is a full-service firearms training and advocacy organization aimed at bringing essential and foundational training to those living in the greater Atlanta area. Today, Harrison shares his origin story with us, from ammunition selling to now owning and operating an entire company that not only trains people how to use firearms but also equips them with the best firearms and accessories available to them. Harrison and I also talk a bit about some of his favorite guns to have at the...

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, I have the unique opportunity to talk with someone who is not only a businessman and entrepreneur in the firearms industry but has also brought plenty of successful products to market in other industries as well. Jeremy Deadman is the CEO and founder of XTech Tactical, a company focused on bringing "legacy" products for pistols and rifles into the industry at a reasonable price to the consumer. Today, Jeremy and I will discuss his past business history, what XTech offers today, and how XTech is trying to pioneer a marketplace...

In this episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, we sit down with Safariland’s Dave Higginbotham to talk about the slick new Gravity holster! This new OWB optics-ready passive retention holster is turning heads with its customizable Cordura wraps, optics compatibility, and a wallet-friendly $65 price tag. In this episode, Dave gives us an inside look at what went into designing this EDC-friendly holster, from its rugged SafariLaminate build to the paddle mount that also fits in the Safariland QLS environment. We’ll dig into Safariland’s legacy, swap stories about real-world gear use and use cases for Safarila...

Happy summer, everyone, and welcome back to another episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast. Today, we’re talking all about building skills and drills while we’re out there enjoying this amazing summer weather. Today I’ve brought on both Bryce and Kevin from The Carry Handle Podcast to chit chat about our favorite skills and drills to work on at the range. As firearms owners, I think we must have more than just a rudimentary understanding and proficiency with our firearms - we should all be good! Today, Kevin, Bryce, and I will tell you all about ou...

On this episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're joined once again by Bryce from the Carry Handle Podcast as we go through some of the industry's latest news and trends. Up first we talk a bit about a recent post from Calvin of FirepowerUnited asking some important questions about the intersection of competition and military firearms. However, our biggest topic of the day is of course in refrence to the "Big Beautiful Bill" and some recent changes made to it by the Senate Finance Committee. Today Bryce and I will share our own interpreation of the changes...

In today’s episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, we bring back Paul Fletcher of Fletcher Rifle Works to talk about his new line of suppressors. While Fletcher Rifle Works is primarily known for their introduction of the OpenTop 11/22 platform, they’ve now also delved into the suppressor business with the Taquito 22, Cotula 6, Texas Flood, and Weston 8 being their first offerings, and with each silencer offering slightly different characteristics to fit the wildly varying shooting practices found in the United States. With what looks like a good move for gun laws when it comes to suppressors - the el...

In this exciting episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun podcast, we sit down with Conor, CEO of ACE Virtual Shooting, to explore the groundbreaking Ace XR Virtual Shooting Simulator. We dive into the system’s ability to hone skills like trigger control and visual processing, while also going over some debates about its realism compared to live-fire training. The conversation gets lively as we discuss the “sticker shock” of Ace XR’s cost, its immersive VR handset, and how it stacks up against dry-fire tools like MantisX. From what systems and hardware ACE is using, to questions about its fit fo...

We're back in the studio with Bryce and Kevin from The Carry Handle Podcast for a fun and friendly conversation on Memorial Day (for us at least). Today the three of us go over a couple of recent events in the firearms world - most notably the very real chance that Suppressors might be removed from the NFA. Additionally, we talk about some new news for Kevin and Bryce when it comes to their own ventures including a brand new gun/gaming YouTube channel (The Carry Handle Gaming). We also take time again to check up on one another's...

Today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun podcast features Bo and Aaron of Staker Precision, the small company behind the new Side ACOG Mount or SAM. The SAM somewhat reverses the roles of the offset red dot and primary optic and instead puts the magnified ACOG at a 36-degree offset for a quick boost in magnification over that of your normal red dot. Today both Aaron and Bo will share their origin story from conception, to prototyping and eventually to production and give us some insight into how the optic is meant to be used as well as clear...

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of firearm suppressors with Mike Slack, the innovative mind behind Engaged Industries. With years of experience as a seasoned suppressor designer, Mike shares his journey in the industry, offering insights into the challenges and breakthroughs that have shaped his career. We explore the cutting-edge technology behind Engaged Industries’ flagship suppressors, the Operator 5.56 and Recon .308, discussing their design philosophy, performance, and unique features like the VLB25 baffle system and Vacuum Expansion technology for reduced gas blowback and superior sound suppression. Mike also breaks down the revolutionary Stealth LoK™ Quick Disconnect (QD) Syst...

Join us this week on TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast for an engaging conversation with Dan Wolgin, CEO of Ammunition Depot, as we dive into the hot topic of ammunition prices and why gun owners don’t need to be “tariff-ied" of the recent tariffs being levied both by and against the United States. In this episode, Dan breaks down the strength of the U.S. ammo supply chain, explaining how domestic production keeps prices stable despite tariff rumors of ammo shortages and skyrocketing prices. We tackle the real threat of panic buying, a concern for every Second Amendment supp...

In this week's episode, we follow up from our pre-NRA Show pow-wow to a full-blown review and discussion of NRAAM 2025. Today I've brought along Paul B, Mags M, Eugene L, and Kirk F, to talk about what they saw at the show and what they think of all of it. In addition to talking about everything we saw at the show, we also talk a bit about some of the different views we have based on our position within the industry, as well as what we personally hope will happen despite some of the current trends going on in...

Today we're on the move on the way to NRAAM 2025 in Atlanta Georgia talking to Bryce from The Carry Handle Podcast about what we expect to see at the show this year. The NRA Show or NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits is an open to the public gun show that gives customers and manufacturers a chance to mingle with one another and showcase products, answer questions, and hopefully get questions answered. In stark contrast to other trade shows like SHOT Show, NRAAM also has a pretty hefty political component with prominent speakers such as President Donald Trump making frequent...

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we're speaking with Kevin from The Carry Handle podcast about what's in our range bags. Anyone who shoots likely has a range bag or at least something to carry all of their gear to the range with them when they shoot away from home. Typically I bring at a minimum a set of ear protection, eye protection, and some medical gear. However, over the years, both Kevin and I have allowed our range equipment to somewhat balloon, and in today's discussion, we'll both try to defend and justify the equipment...

On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun podcast, we've brought Bryce from The Carry Handle podcast to talk about our recent fascination with the ACE Virtual Shooting Simulator (Ace XR). ACE XR describes itself as the "premier shooting and pistol training platform" for the Meta series of completely wireless virtual headsets. When you combine the Quest VR headset, one of the controllers, and an ACE handset, you've got everything you need to dive right into a virtual shooting range that can be changed in an instant. Bryce and I have both had a bit of experience with the...

On today’s episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, we’re chatting with Tom Kubiniec from SecureIt Tactical about all things gun storage. SecureIt’s been around for over two decades, starting out by designing armories for the military and law enforcement before branching out to civilian and commercial sales. Tom and his crew aren’t just about locking guns away—they’re pros at keeping them organized, too.

Tom walks us through his work with the U.S. military, sharing how SecureIt’s clever designs make life easier for military, law enforcement, and everyday gun owners by ke...

In this episode of TFB Behind the Gun Podcast, we sit down with Bill Reilly, founder of SIM-X Ammunition, to unpack the story behind his company and its practical take on ammo design for training, competition, and self-defense. Bill opens up about how his hobby of shooting in his basement drove him back to school and sparked the creation of SIM-X. He breaks down the ammo’s competition roots and how it’s engineered for performance in both training and matches. Operating out of northern Salt Lake City, Utah, SIM-X focuses on lightweight, high-velocity rounds tailored for shooters who valu...

On today’s episode of TFB's Behind the Gun podcast, we’re joined by YouTuber Agent Espo to tackle some serious—and not-so-serious—topics swirling around the gun industry and community. While many enthusiasts rightfully revel in the full enjoyment of their firearms, others argue that the culture could use a bit more gravity. Agent Espo and I dive into the diverse perspectives shaping American gun culture, exploring how we—as content creators, reviewers, and writers—can address the negative undertones within our own circles. From dispelling myths to fostering a welcoming vibe, we’ll discuss ways to bring more folks int...

Today we're back in the studio with Dan, Matt, and Chris - all competitors in The Proving Grounds, a set of competitions that takes place in the Southeastern region of the united states and is open to all levels of shooters who want to get out there and test their skills with their weapons in a friendly and competitive environment. This time, Matt and Dan are back to talk with us about their TSS or Tactical Sniper Series competition. This competition takes the typical two-gun format and flips the focus to long-range shooting and team communication as the paramount...

Back during SHOT Show 2025 on TFBTV Show Time, we took some time to speak with Mr. Hammy3DPrints. Going mostly by "Hammy" online, Hammy has turned the hobby of 3D printing into a business that's mostly centered around the firearms industry. Gun storage is not just an important factor to consider when you have guns in the home, it's also one area where a lot of people tend to have trouble finding displays that are both functional and affordable. Hammy has made a large part of his business dedicated to exactly that - organization. Today, we'll talk about some...

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 d...

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...

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 tr...

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 com...

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, re...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 E...

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 w...