#308- Gunsmith or 'Gun Mechanic': You Decide

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. -- Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email [email protected] Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

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 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. -- Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email [email protected] Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

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 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. -- Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email [email protected] Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

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 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. -- Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email [email protected] Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

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 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. -- Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email [email protected] Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

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 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. -- Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email [email protected] Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

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 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. -- Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email [email protected] Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

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 [email protected] Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. 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!

In this episode of the Guns Magazine Podcast, host Brent Wheat and special guest Roy Huntington explore the world of leather holsters. They dive into what makes leather a classic choice for carrying a firearm, from its unique feel and traditional craftsmanship to the way it molds to the user over time. They also compare it to modern materials like Kydex, discussing the pros and cons of each, while offering practical advice on how to care for your leather holster to ensure it lasts a lifetime. Join Brent and Roy as they discuss the ongoing search for the perfect holster and share tips on how to choose a safe, functional, and durable holster that's right for you. Key Moments and Takeaways Leather holsters have a unique character and comfort. Holsters wear out and should be replaced regularly. Choosing a quality holster is an investment in safety. Leather holsters provide a connection to tradition. Caring for leather holsters is essential for longevity. Kydex and leather serve different purposes in holstering. The search for the perfect holster is ongoing and personal. Holster safety is paramount; they should cover the trigger guard. Understanding your needs is crucial when selecting a holster. Experimenting with different holsters is part of the process. --- Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email [email protected] Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. 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!

In this special 300th episode, GUNS Magazine host Brent Wheat and guest Roy Huntington make a historic announcement: the print editions of GUNS Magazine and American Handgunner magazine are ending after 70 years. Join them as they explain the business realities behind this bittersweet decision and reveal how the brand will continue in a new, digital-first era. The podcast itself also gets a new name — welcome to the Guns Podcast US. Key Takeaways & Highlights: 70 Years of History: The end of the print editions of GUNS Magazine and American Handgunner magazine. Challenges of Print: A deep dive into the business of publishing, including the low profit margins of subscriptions and the financial realities that led to this decision. The Power of Digital: How the brand is focusing on its website, YouTube channel, and podcast to deliver content every day. The Soul of the Brand: An emotional discussion on how the team's passion, integrity, and respect for their readers will continue in the digital space. Podcast Rebrand: The Guns Magazine Podcast is now the Guns Podcast US. Join us for this momentous episode as we reflect on the past, embrace the future, and look forward to continuing to provide the best firearms content in the industry. Like, subscribe, and share to support the new digital journey of these iconic brands! -- Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email [email protected] Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Visit our website at https://gunspodcast.us