A Blast From The Past | SOTG 1323 [Best Of]

Merry Christmas! This week, since it's Christmas Time, we're taking some time off from the show. But we still want you to have some stuff to listen to while you're road-tripping or cleaning up wrapping paper. https://www.studentofthegun.com/radio So today, we've got some Classic episodes for you. Some episodes that, unless you were around at the VERY beginning, you likely haven't heard! Before we get into that, I just wanna say big thanks to our Partners who help this show happen. EOTech, of course, bringing you this show each and every week. Check them out at EOTechInc.com, make good use of any money you may have gotten as a gift this season Then there's our new friends at Blackout Coffee! If you go to studentofthegun.com/blackout use the Promo Code STUDT20 for 20% off your order of some of the best coffee you'll ever drink. Now without further ado, let's get into it! Enjoy a couple of retro SOTG Radio episodes!

We've got a lot to cover today, and not all of it is fun, but it's all important. We have a long discussion about the shooting that occurred in Australia, despite their intense gun control laws, and there was a deadly Pennsylvania Machete Attack, but it wasn't in somewhere like Philadelphia, like you may think. Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today! Just a Civilian?  Professor explained his recent article titled "Are You Just a Civilian?" which was published on Shooting News Weekly on December 14th, discussing how Hollywood portrays civilians with guns as incompetent and dangerous. Navy Firearms Training Safety Initiative The meeting focused on addressing issues with the U.S. Navy's handling of firearms training and safety. Professor and Zach discussed a recent incident where the Navy shared photos of poor firearms practices, which led to the creation of a promotional code "GONAVY" for a 15% discount on training materials at ShopSOTG.com and SOTGU. Jarrad confirmed that the P201 Home Study Cohort could help improve military firearms training skills. The group decided to offer this discount as a positive step to support Navy personnel and encourage better firearms training practices. Red Dot Myths and Training The discussion focused on the myths and realities of red dot sights on handguns. The Professor explained that red dot sights are for human shooters, not to increase gun accuracy, and emphasized that proper training and muscle tension are crucial for accurate shooting. Jarrad noted that while red dots don't make guns more accurate, they can help shooters identify movement during firing. The conversation concluded with Jarrad suggesting that honest self-reflection and seeking professional coaching can lead to improved shooting performance with red dot sights. Coffee Corner: Blink by Malcolm Gladwell The discussion then shifted to a new feature called The Coffee Corner, sponsored by Blackout Coffee, and the introduction of a new book review. The professor shared his experience with a broken coffee maker and how he used a French press as an alternative. Finally, he recommended the book "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell, which he discovered through research on the UK Special Air Service. Scranton Machete Attack Investigation The group discussed a machete attack in Scranton, Pennsylvania, where two women were killed and another was critically injured. The suspect, Michael Woods, was apprehended by police who arrived quickly, though the professor questioned whether the response time made a difference given the severity of the attack. The discussion highlighted that violent incidents can occur in smaller cities like Scranton, challenging assumptions about crime rates in different locations, and emphasized the importance of being prepared for potential threats regardless of location. TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Blackout Coffee | Spike's Tactical The US Navy is at it again, posting embarrassing photos of sailors shooting. USE Promo Code: GoNavy to save 15% at SOTGU & ShopSOTG.com [0:20:08] EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com TOPIC: If you are having trouble with your red dot, try covering it up www.shootingnewsweekly.com [0:40:43] COFFEE CORNER - Blackout Coffee TOPIC: Blink by Malcolm Gladwell Promo Code STUDT20 for 20% Off your order at studentofthegun.com/blackout [0:57:20] SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University TOPIC: Two women and a service dog killed in machete attack, police say www.wsmv.com

Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today! Coffee Corner Audio Segment Setup The team discussed setting up a coffee corner segment and agreed to play two different audio clips for listeners to vote on, with one clip to be played this week and the other next week. The episode featured a discussion about Glock Gen 6 firearms, which Ken Hackathorn had predicted would be released in 2026, and included a new segment about a 500-round trigger job. The show concluded with announcements about new theme music and upcoming content, including fighting fitness and leadership lessons. Debunking Shotgun Defense Myths The hosts discussed the myths surrounding home defense shotguns, emphasizing the importance of proper training and understanding of firearms. They criticized the military's approach to shotgun training, highlighting its lack of practicality and effectiveness. The conversation also touched on the evolution of gun shop culture and the shift to online communities for firearm enthusiasts. The hosts encouraged listeners to seek professional training to dispel myths and improve their understanding of firearms. Glock Gen 6 Optics Update The discussion focused on Glock's new Gen 6 firearms, which will eliminate the multiple plate system for mounting optics and instead allow direct mounting to the slide using a universal system compatible with major optic brands. The professor explained that this change reduces human error and simplifies the mounting process, similar to how the industry moved from proprietary charging cables to USB standards. The conversation concluded with an announcement of a new feature called Coffee Corner, which will include discussions about firearms history, and an invitation for listeners to vote on guitar themes played during the segment. TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical [0:06:00] Home-Defense Shotgun Mybusthing - SHOOT-ON [0:19:41] EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com TOPIC: Gen 6 Glock will take the EOTech EFLX optic [0:42:39] COFFEE CORNER - Blackout Coffee TOPIC: Recommended Reading: Guns of the Cold War by Paul Markel Use Promo Code STUDT20 for 20% Off at Checkout [0:50:57] SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University TOPIC: 500 Round Trigger Job www.shootingnewsweekly.com

Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today! Training Analysis and Methodology Discussion Louis discussed his new YouTube channel with Sonny Pazikas and Josh DeWalt, which focuses on analyzing the state of the training industry and providing reaction videos to violent encounters from a different perspective. They aim to discuss training methods without promoting their own companies, and recently defended a mutual friend's drill video against internet criticism. The group discussed the importance of understanding the "why" behind training methods, contrasting with the internet audience's focus on immediate results. Professor shared the concept of "The Four Pillars of Fighting" (mindset, tactics, skill, and gear) as a framework for understanding different approaches to self-defense training. Firearms Training Mindset Evolution The group discussed the disconnect between people's stated priorities and their actual actions, using the example of Jerry's transition from firearms training to diving instruction and subsequent return to firearms training due to controversy. They explored the concept of mindset in firearms training, contrasting the approach of those who focus on tactical skills and split times with those who emphasize practical, real-world applications like cover and movement. The conversation concluded with a discussion about military-style qualification processes and their relevance to firearms training, highlighting the differences between institutional approaches and practical, skills-based training methods. TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical [0:03:03] EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com TOPIC: Thank You for 1 Millions Views and supporting EOTech www.studentofthegun.com/blackout - Promo: STUDT20 [0:11:15] SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University TOPIC: Polar Bear attack kills man nypost.com/2025 [0:20:18] SPECIAL Guest: Louis Caras of LCAR and Students of Violence Youtube Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today!

Enjoy this compilation of various different "Homeroom" segments that we did over this last year. Including an armed citizen taking out a multiple-time convicted felon as he attempted to break into a woman's home, the importance of the fundamental four, and the importance of off-handed shooting!  Happy Thanksgiving! Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical

Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today! During this week's show Professor Paul and Zach will discuss a recent social media post that went viral for SOTG. How and why might that be the case?  During our Tech Talk from EOTech Inc, we will consider "thermochromic" coffee mugs and how those work. How are these different from a thermobaric device?  Language, Context, and Free Speech The professor and Zach discussed the appropriate use of certain words, emphasizing the importance of context and historical usage in language. They expressed frustration with the "woke" movement's attempts to censor language, highlighting the double standards and the impact on free speech. Zach mentioned that the first half of their show is open to all listeners, while the latter part, including the grad program content, is restricted to enrolled members. They encouraged listeners to join their mailing list for updates and access to live sessions. Blackout Coffee Mug Promotion The meeting discussed the promotion of Blackout Coffee and EOTech thermochromic coffee mugs, which gained significant attention on social media with over 519,000 views. Professor highlighted the pro-Second Amendment stance of Blackout Coffee's owners and shared a video demonstrating the mug's feature. The group also mentioned the release of three videos commemorating the 10th anniversary of Team Honey Badger and encouraged viewers to explore the Student of the Gun website and social media channels. The conversation ended with a brief mention of an upcoming discussion on fighting shotguns during the Student of the Gun homeroom. Fighting Shotgun Characteristics and Options The professor discussed the characteristics of a "fighting shotgun," emphasizing that it should be a 12-gauge repeating gun, such as a pump or semi-automatic model, with an 18-inch barrel and a cylinder bore. He explained that while double-barrel shotguns are popular for hunting, they are not ideal for self-defense due to legal restrictions in some countries. The professor also noted the rising cost of ammunition, particularly for smaller gauges like 20-gauge, and highlighted the availability of more affordable options like the MAC 1014 Breacher compared to high-end models like the Benelli M4. Home Defense Shotgun Recommendations The discussion focused on shotguns for home defense, with the professor recommending a simple, reliable 12-gauge pump-action shotgun loaded with buckshot from reputable manufacturers like Federal, Winchester, or Remington. He emphasized that such shotguns should be basic with a short barrel, no sporting features, and no duck plugs, and suggested practicing with birdshot before using buckshot for defense. The professor also noted that in the U.S., shotguns are used more as fighting tools than in other nations, citing their effectiveness in law enforcement for over 125 years. The conversation ended with an invitation for viewers to join the grad program by signing up at studentofthegun.com. Leadership and Continuous Education The meeting focused on leadership lessons, emphasizing the importance of gaining experience and continuing education. The professor shared anecdotes from military training and state-mandated firearms programs to illustrate how individuals sometimes underestimate the value of ongoing education.  Importance of Experience in Fitness The professor discussed the dangers of relying on enthusiasts for tactical advice, emphasizing the importance of experience and education. They also covered the topic of fighting fitness, mentioning that an email was sent out to promote a live show. The professor shared the story of Sybil, a client of Matt Reynolds who regained her quality of life through strength training, particularly deadlifts. They stressed the significance of maintaining muscle mass for longevity and improving quality of life, even into later years. Exercise Benefits for Aging Muscles The professor discussed the importance of regular exercise, particularly weightlifting, for maintaining muscle mass and bone density as people age. He explained that gravity plays a crucial role in muscle strengthening and that a combination of stress and recovery is necessary for muscle adaptation. The professor emphasized that older adults, particularly men, should focus on leg strength to prevent osteoporosis and reduce the risk of hip fractures, noting that many elderly individuals who break hips do not survive the year. Combat Veterans and Social Media The professor expressed frustration with modern combat veterans who act as if they are the first to experience combat, thanks to social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube. He compared their experiences to historical combat veterans, emphasizing the importance of civilian training and the need for practical knowledge in real-life situations. The professor also criticized a specific influencer's advice against using shotguns for home defense, highlighting the priority of stopping a threat over preserving drywall. Home Defense Rights Discussion The meeting focused on a passionate discussion about home defense and the importance of citizens having adequate tools and training to protect themselves. The professor emphasized that civilians should not be disadvantaged and should have access to the same weapons and training as the military, citing historical examples like the American Revolution. He criticized certain influencers and veterans for undermining civilians' rights to self-defense, arguing that citizens need more advantages rather than fewer. The conversation ended with a brief Thanksgiving message and reminder about an upcoming Best Of Student of the Gun episode. TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical PUT Blackout Coffee into those mugs! www.studentofthegun.com/blackout   Use Code: STUDT20 [0:23:30] EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com TOPIC: EOTech has coffee mugs, and you can get an SOTG Coffee Mug at ShopSOTG.com [0:35:21] SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University TOPIC: What makes a "Fighting Shotgun" such? Shotgun Ammo: The Problem with No. 4 Buckshot for Home Defense www.shootingnewsweekly.com FIRST TEST: Benelli M4 EXT Defensive Shotgun shoot-on.com

Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today! GLOCK has been in the news quite a bit recently, so we brought on somewhat of an expert in that topic: Ken Hackathorn! It's always a treat to have him join us, and when he talks, you better listen. Additionally, what the heck do we mean by "Shoot the Naked Man"? Is that a metaphor? Is that literal? Well, listen up and find out! Team Honey Badger 10th Anniversary The team discussed the 10th anniversary of Professor Paul Markel's book "Team Honey Badger," which reached number one in the parenting category on Amazon in 2015. The group then moved on to their Tech Talk segment, sponsored by EOTech, where they explored the topic of gas control in firearms, particularly for short-barreled guns. Firearm Muzzle Device Overview Professor Markel shared insights on muzzle devices that can help direct noise away from the shooter and reduce flash, mentioning an article he wrote for Shooting News Weekly on the subject. They discussed three muzzle devices: the XM177, the Barking Spider from Spikes Tactical, and the Primary Weapon Systems CQB, with the professor sharing personal experiences and photos of their effectiveness. Emergency Preparedness and Leadership Discussion The professor and Jarrad discussed the importance of having home, car, and personal medical kits, emphasizing that people should be prepared to handle emergencies without waiting for someone else. They also explored the concept of disparity of force in self-defense situations and the need for proper training. TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical [0:07:53] EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com TOPIC: Gas Control www.shootingnewsweekly.com [0:26:47] Warrior of the Week - James Yeager's "Virtues of a Warrior" TOPIC: Trauma Medical Prep for Citizens: Step 1, 2, and 3 shoot-on.com [0:39:22] SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University TOPIC: Naked man accused of trespassing shot dead by LA homeowner www.foxla.com [0:50:58] Ken Hackathorn on Glocks Wanna hear the Full Interview? Sign Up for the Grad Program!

Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today! Today we have a special guest; Louis Caras, a Tactical Response Small Arms & Tactics instructor who will join us to discuss a troubling situation. Why is it in the year of Our Lord, Two-thousand and Twenty-Five, that there are still so-called experts in the world of firearms who ignore the importance of traumatic medical training and gear? We have a question from an audience member that plays right into our Tech Talk segment from EOTech Inc. What is the difference between target focus and sight focus? Also, can an optic on a handgun be beneficial while moving and shooting or is it a drawback? Student of the Gun has a new partner: Blackout Coffee and you can support the show by using the link found in the show notes. Additionally, Professor Paul has a reminder that Christmas is coming up and now is the time to order an SOTG branded coffee mug for the one that you love. During our Leadership Lesson, Paul has some suggested reading which can now be consumed via audiobook.  Have you read the Morning Mindset book yet? As usual, we have our Fighting Fitness segment. Paul gives an update regarding what we will call the Nick Orr Challenge. Do not neglect your leg strength. And, is eating protein a bad thing? Paul and Jarrad consider an OpEd that seriously questions the consumption of protein. TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical 4 Universal Safety Rules +1 Poster: ShopSOTG.com [0:06:35] EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com TOPIC: Sight Focus vs Target Focus [0:32:51] Warrior of the Week - James Yeager's "Virtues of a Warrior" TOPIC: The Ultimate Armed Citizen: Using Pistols, Rifles, and Shotguns as Fighting Tools AUDIOBOOK https://amzn.to/47S8nXw [0:38:12] SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University TOPIC: What's up with gun people continuing to ignore medical? - Special Guest; Louis Caras

Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today! Shooting Range Hearing Protection Guide The discussion focused on hearing protection at shooting ranges, where the professor emphasized that earplugs alone are insufficient due to bone-conductive noise, and recommended using both earplugs and muffs, particularly the Walker Razor electronic muffs. Jarrad inquired about shoulder and cheek weld issues with large muffs, and the professor confirmed that smaller electronic muffs like the Walker Razors work well for shooting. OEG Vision and Shooting Accuracy The meeting focused on discussing vision issues and their impact on shooting accuracy, particularly with the use of an occluded eye gun sight (OEG) and prescription glasses. The Professor shared his research findings and experiments conducted with students, demonstrating how the OEG can improve accuracy for shooters with different vision conditions. Jarrad and Zach participated in the discussion, sharing their personal experiences with the OEG and its effectiveness.  Larry Vickers SOTG Exclusive More content from the previous interview with Larry Vickers to include an exclusive story made available to SOTG. What was Larry originally going to do when he got out of the Army?  Hybrid Firearms Training Discussion The group discussed Student of the Gun University, a hybrid firearms training school that offers online home study and in-person residency programs. They reviewed the benefits of the program, including flexible learning options and accessibility for students worldwide. The conversation then shifted to recent rifle training at Pro Gun Vegas, where they expressed gratitude to the hosts and instructors for a successful event. TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical [0:12:25] EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com TOPIC: EFLX = OEG Testing Results [0:29:18] Warrior of the Week - James Yeager's "Virtues of a Warrior" TOPIC: Vicker's Interview Bonus [1:02:33] SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University TOPIC: MAR R201 After-Action

Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today! Audiobooks Now Available on Amazon The meeting discussed the availability of audiobooks for Nicholas Orr's fiction books, including the Pipe Hitters Novel Series, now accessible on Amazon. The professor explained the process of creating audiobooks, noting the previous complexities and the recent simplification by Amazon, making it more affordable for independent authors. They also mentioned a brief technical issue with Amazon's website, which affected access to the audiobooks. The discussion concluded with an announcement of an upcoming tech talk, focusing on a rifle chambered in .22 Nosler and the VUDU-X 1 to 6 optic, with a link to the article provided in the show notes. Glock Pistol Model Discontinuation The discussion focused on Glock's discontinuation of several pistol models, with Jarrad noting that the G19 Gen 4 and MOS Gen 4 were among the affected models, though the G45 and 19 X-ray remained unchanged. The professor emphasized that while some customers expressed concern about the changes, the market ultimately decides which models succeed, and manufacturers cannot accommodate every request. They also discussed how the gun community often criticizes manufacturers for lack of innovation while simultaneously opposing any changes, making it difficult for companies to satisfy their customers. Challenges in Firearms Industry Leadership Jarrad and the professor discussed the unique challenges faced by the firearms industry, particularly regarding political involvement and the need for unapologetic leadership. Jarrad expressed uncertainty about whether gun enthusiasts truly desire strong leadership, suggesting that potential leaders might hesitate due to doubts about followership. They also discussed the complex decision-making process companies face when dealing with political pressures, such as the potential loss of sales in certain states, and the impact such decisions could have on employees and their families. TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical Q&A Time: You have mentioned the supplement BPC-157 a few times recently. I sprained both rotator cuffs recently & I'm interested in BPC-157 for potential help in recovery, but I'm not sure what brands to trust. Could you recommend any brand you have had good experience with? - Todd Clark Answer: Emerging Use of BPC-157 in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine: A Systematic Review [0:17:32] EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com TOPIC: Glock Discussion - Discontinued Models [0:47:15] SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University TOPIC: CSU professor accidentally shot by roommate who mistook her for intruder www.wtvm.com [0:58:54] Larry Vickers Interview Want to hear the Full Interview? Join the Grad Program!