#305- Bottom Line: The Truth of Pistol Caliber Carbines

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

Ever wonder how some of the most famous firearms of all time started as total flops? 🤯 Join hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington as they dive into the fascinating history of guns that were initially "poo-pooed" by the public but went on to become legends.  In this episode, we cover: The Winchester 1873: Dubbed the "gun that won the West," it wasn't an instant hit! Find out why the single-shot rifle was initially preferred over the lever-action repeater. The Marlin 336: Discover how this rifle, once considered a "poor man's Winchester," became the second best-selling hunting rifle of all time. The Colt Single Action Army & Colt Python: From being dropped from production to becoming iconic collector's items, learn about the incredible comebacks of these legendary revolvers. The M1 Garand: The rifle that helped win WWII almost didn't make it! Hear how a rocky start and military resistance nearly left this icon in the dust. The AR-15: Once mocked as a "Tinker toy," this "space gun" made of polymers and aluminum was a revolutionary design. We discuss how it went from being sneered at to becoming America's most popular rifle. The GLOCK: The "fantastic plastic" that changed everything. We explore the initial backlash against polymer frames and how Gaston Glock's genius business strategy made them the go-to for law enforcement and civilians alike. This is a deep dive into the stories of innovation, skepticism, and ultimate triumph in the world of firearms. Don't miss this one! Don't forget to like and subscribe! Your support helps us bring you more great content every week. 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 Magazine Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week.

Join hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington as they delve into the fascinating evolution of gun culture. From the old-school days of hunting rifles and target shooting to the modern era of tactical gear and self-defense, they explore how major events and shifting social perceptions have changed the way we think about firearms.  Episode Highlights: The surprising influence of the Gulf War on the AR-15 and polymer pistol markets. Why the "tactical" trend might be on the wane, and what's next for the industry. The surprising, welcoming nature of today's diverse gun community. Get ready to hear some straight talk, share your thoughts in the comments, and discover why the world of shooting is far more complex and interesting than you might think. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon so you don't miss an episode! 🔔 -- 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 Magazine Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week.

Discover how GunBroker can be a game-changer for firearm dealers! Join GUNS Magazine editor Brent Wheat and "Mr. GunBroker" Allen Forkner as they dismantle the biggest misconception in the industry: that GunBroker is a competitor to brick-and-mortar stores. In this episode of GunBroker University, they reveal how this online platform is actually a powerful partner, helping dealers expand their reach and boost their sales. Whether you're a large retailer or a small, one-man shop, you'll learn how to leverage GunBroker to: Expand Your Showroom: Instantly gain a nationwide customer base of over 8.5 million registered users, turning your local inventory into a 24/7 national storefront. Boost In-Store Traffic: Facilitate firearm transfers from online sales, bringing new customers directly into your shop for potential upsells on accessories, ammo, and services like range memberships and training classes. Liquidate Inventory: Find buyers for hard-to-sell or specialized firearms, turning slow-moving or unusual trade-ins into quick revenue. Grow Your Business: Get expert tips on optimizing your online listings with professional photography and clear descriptions, and learn how to use GunBroker's robust tools to integrate with your existing point-of-sale systems. Plus, get a look at the latest market trends, including surprising growth in the used firearm and parts markets. This is essential listening for any FFL holder looking to thrive in the modern firearms market. EPISODE SPONSOR This series of the GUNS Magazine Podcast is sponsored by GunBroker.com — the largest online marketplace dedicated to firearms, hunting, shooting, and related products. Launched in 1999, GunBroker.com gives you a safe, secure, and transparent way to buy and sell firearms, ammunition, hunting gear, and much more by strict adherence to gun ownership policies and regulations through licensed firearms dealers as transfer agents. GunBroker.com promotes responsible ownership of guns and firearms. -- 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 Magazine Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week.

Allen Forkner from GunBroker.com alerts sellers to common red flags they should be on the lookout for when offering a firearm for sale. EPISODE SPONSOR This series of the GUNS Magazine Podcast is sponsored by GunBroker.com — the largest online marketplace dedicated to firearms, hunting, shooting, and related products. Launched in 1999, GunBroker.com gives you a safe, secure, and transparent way to buy and sell firearms, ammunition, hunting gear, and much more by strict adherence to gun ownership policies and regulations through licensed firearms dealers as transfer agents. GunBroker.com promotes responsible ownership of guns and firearms. -- 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 Magazine Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week.