#350 - Out of Ammo: Inside the Firearm Market Collapse

Is the firearms industry really in trouble, or are we just witnessing a normal market correction? In this episode of the Guns Podcast, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington break down last week's controversial analysis by Trent Marsh surrounding gun sales, NICS background check data and the state of the shooting industry. Despite some industry pushback, the hosts explore why fluctuation is natural and how current economic pressures are reshaping the market. We cut through the noise to discuss panic buying, the reality of smaller manufacturers and why changes at the SHOT Show is actually a sign of a healthy, evolving industry. Whether you are a dealer, a collector, or just a concerned shooter, this episode provides a balanced, expert look at the trends impacting your favorite brands and the future of the shooting world. *Key Takeaways* • NICS background check data is a useful, albeit imperfect, metric for tracking market health. • The firearms industry is currently experiencing a 'great correction' as it returns to normal post-2020. • Economic factors like inflation are impacting discretionary spending on firearms and ammunition for younger shooters. • Market fluctuations are natural, and business turnover is a standard part of a competitive, capitalist industry. • Panic buying has largely stalled as consumers focus on essential expenses and current inventories. • Stirring the pot is necessary to keep the industry healthy and to avoid stagnation. *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.

Is the shooting industry in trouble? In this episode of the Guns Podcast US, host Brent Wheat welcomes special guest Trent Marsh to break down the cold, hard numbers behind the current state of the industry. Moving past anecdotes and vibes, Trent shares insights from his deep-dive analysis on why the gun market has been in a downward trend since 2020. We explore the "New Old Guard" perspective, why the era of panic buying has effectively ended, and how the political landscape has created a shift in consumer demand. From the saturation of the AR market to the unexpected lack of market reaction to major political events, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of the shooting sports. *Key Takeaways* • The gun industry has experienced five consecutive years of negative growth since the 2020 spike- and is likely to continue. • Unsatisfied consumer demand for firearms and ammo has largely been exhausted. • Panic buying is no longer a reliable driver for the market, even in the face of major national tragedies. • The market has become politically polarized, with states solidifying their own Second Amendment environments. • We are currently in a 'buyer's market' due to overstocking, but this may lead to higher prices once the industry corrects. • Small-scale 'mom-and-pop' AR builders and commodity-focused brands are at the highest risk of failing. Link to the story by Trent Marsh: https://www.huntingretailer.com/business/the-new-old-guard-in-the-firearms-industry -- The GunsPodcastUS is presented by Holosun. Holosun designs and manufactures performance-driven optics and accessories for the shooting sports, law enforcement, and defense markets. For more information, visit www.holosun.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 -- The GunsPodcastUS is presented by Holosun. Holosun designs and manufactures performance-driven optics and accessories for the shooting sports, law enforcement, and defense markets. For more information, visit www.holosun.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 @gunspodcastus or sign up for our newsletter 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 US, your hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington dive into a critical, often ignored reality of the shooting world: the difference between buying gear and developing actual skill. We explore why new shooters—and even experienced ones—frequently fall into the trap of thinking they can buy their way to proficiency. From the common mistake of buying a gun before defining your mission, to the obsession with excessive accessories over fundamental techniques, we break down how to stop overcomplicating your training. Whether you're a beginner or a veteran, this conversation will help you refocus on what truly makes you a better shooter and how to cut through the industry noise to focus on what matters most. Key Takeaways ·         Don't confuse buying expensive equipment with developing core shooting skills. ·         Define your mission before purchasing a firearm to ensure it fits your actual needs. ·         Professional instruction drastically accelerates your learning curve compared to self-teaching. ·         Prioritize fundamental techniques over collecting excessive accessories or 'cool guy' gear. ·         Constant gear changes can be dangerous and detrimental to building muscle memory. ·         Avoid the trap of 'mag dumping' for fun; intentional practice leads to real improvement. ·         Acknowledge the difference between what you need and what you simply want. -- The GunsPodcastUS is presented by Holosun. Holosun designs and manufactures performance-driven optics and accessories for the shooting sports, law enforcement, and defense markets. For more information, visit www.holosun.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 @gunspodcastus or sign up for our newsletter to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

Is your handgun training falling short? In this episode, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington break down the massive benefits of pushing your target back to 100 yards. While some popular online voices claim that shooting beyond 3-5 yards is a waste of time, Brent and Roy explain why distance is the ultimate truth-teller for your marksmanship. Listen as they discuss how long-range handgun practice forces you to slow down, refine your trigger control, and master your sight picture. Whether you are an enthusiast or a professional, discover why adding distance to your routine will make you a significantly more capable shooter up close. Stop falling for the hype and start training for reality. Key Takeaways ·         Shooting at longer distances (25-100 yards) forces you to slow down and focus on fundamental marksmanship. ·         Long-range practice exposes flaws in trigger control, sight alignment, and breathing that go unnoticed at close range. ·         Developing proficiency at distance builds the confidence and skill needed to perform under pressure at any distance. ·         Don't fall for the '3-yard only' trend; professional operators train with duty pistols at much greater distances for a reason. ·         If you want to be a well-rounded shooter, you must combine close-in speed drills with precision distance shooting. ·         Always verify information—even from us—by testing it for yourself on the range! -- The GunsPodcastUS is presented by Holosun. Holosun designs and manufactures performance-driven optics and accessories for the shooting sports, law enforcement, and defense markets. For more information, visit www.holosun.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 @gunspodcastus or sign up for our newsletter 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 break down the essential, often-overlooked skills that make a great shooter. They argue that while modern gun culture is hyper-focused on gear and high-speed tactics, the real foundation of defensive and competitive shooting lies in patience, understanding the fundamentals and cultivating true situational awareness. Listen in as they discuss why the "glamour" of tactical YouTube videos can lead to dangerous habits, the critical importance of being honest with yourself about your own limitations, and why mastering the basics is the only way to perform under pressure. Whether you're a new gun owner or a seasoned pro, this episode provides a necessary reality check on what it truly means to carry and use a firearm responsibly. Key Takeaways ·         The most important part of shooting is often not the physical act of pressing the trigger. ·         Patience is a critical, undervalued skill that is essential for both accuracy and safety. ·         Fundamentals are the foundation for all advanced skills; without them, advanced techniques are dangerous. ·         The prevalence of 'tactical' social media content often misleads people into practicing unrealistic, high-speed techniques. ·         Effective defensive shooting requires deep mental preparation, including understanding your own limitations and maintaining constant situational awareness. ·         Being prepared is a holistic process that includes your gear, your mindset, your physical fitness and your understanding of the law. ·         Reverting to basics under pressure is the reality of any high-stress situation, not performing complex Hollywood-style maneuvers. -- The GunsPodcastUS is presented by Holosun. Holosun designs and manufactures performance-driven optics and accessories for the shooting sports, law enforcement, and defense markets. For more information, visit www.holosun.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 @gunspodcastus or sign up for our newsletter to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

Are you relying on single-action shooting for your revolver at the range? In this episode of Guns Podcast US, hosts Brent T. Wheat and Roy Huntington dive deep into the age-old debate of single-action versus double-action shooting. They explain why defaulting to single-action on a defensive revolver is not only holding back your accuracy but can also be a dangerous habit. Join the conversation as Roy breaks down the mechanics of a proper double-action trigger pull, the importance of staging, and why mastering this technique will make you a far more competent and safe shooter. Whether you are a seasoned revolver enthusiast or just starting your journey, this episode provides the critical insights you need to improve your marksmanship and understand the true capabilities of your firearm. Key Takeaways ·         Shooting double-action forces better trigger control and overall marksmanship compared to the crutch of single-action. ·         Using single-action in a defensive situation is considered incompetent and dangerous due to the extremely light trigger pull and potential for negligent discharge. ·         Proper double-action shooting involves 'staging' the trigger, feeling for the mechanical clicks, and maintaining a smooth, continuous pull. ·         Most accuracy issues with double-action are caused by poor technique and lack of practice rather than the mechanism itself. ·         Revolvers have complex internal mechanisms; understanding how they operate is crucial for both safety and performance. ·         Negligent discharges are often legally framed as 'negligence' in court, regardless of whether you claim it was an accident. -- 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 @gunspodcastus or sign up for our newsletter to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

In this episode of Guns Podcast US, hosts Brent T. Wheat and Roy Huntington dive deep into the often-debated .380 ACP cartridge. Frequently dismissed as merely a '9mm short' or an underpowered round, the .380 is gaining significant traction among shooters, especially those dealing with arthritis or difficulty managing heavy recoil. Brent and Roy explore why this caliber is proving to be a highly effective, practical choice for concealed carry when paired with modern, high-performance ammunition. Drawing on real-world data and professional expertise, the hosts challenge common internet myths about 'stopping power' and emphasize the importance of shot placement and reliable gun handling over raw ballistic energy. Whether you are a seasoned shooter or looking for a more comfortable carry solution, this candid discussion provides a fresh perspective on balancing personal needs with effective self-defense. Link to the Greg Ellifritz study mentioned in this episode: https://www.activeresponsetraining.net/an-alternate-look-at-handgun-stopping-power Key Takeaways ·         The .380 ACP is a highly capable defensive caliber when paired with modern, high-performance ammunition. ·         Caliber choice is secondary to shot placement and the ability to effectively manipulate your firearm. ·         The .380 ACP is an excellent option for shooters with hand strength issues or those sensitive to high recoil. ·         Data from real-world shootings shows that caliber often plays a smaller role in stopping a threat than popular myths suggest. ·         It is essential to test your defensive ammunition in your specific firearm to ensure reliability. ·         Don't let 'internet experts' discourage you from carrying a firearm you can shoot accurately and confidently. -- 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 @gunspodcastus or sign up for our newsletter to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

Are you afraid to carry an affordable revolver because you think you're compromising on quality? In this episode of the Guns Podcast, Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington break down the myths surrounding budget snub-nosed revolvers. They explore whether you really need to spend $1,000+ for a reliable everyday CCW carry piece and explain why many modern, lower-cost revolvers are actually well-made, dependable tools. From the rise of CNC manufacturing to the best ways to break in your new firearm, the hosts share practical, expert-level advice on how to test, clean, and maintain your revolver to ensure it performs when you need it most. If you've been wanting a pocket revolver but have been held back by budget concerns or the fear of being judged at the range, this honest, no-nonsense conversation is for you. Key Takeaways ·         Modern, affordable revolvers are not 'cheap' or 'sub-premium'; they are standard-price tools that get the job done. ·         Advances in CNC machining have significantly narrowed the quality gap between budget and high-end firearms. ·         Dry-firing a new revolver hundreds of times is the most effective way to smooth out a crunchy action and uncover hidden mechanical hitches. ·         Never carry a new gun without range-testing it extensively; even premium guns can have quality control issues out of the box. ·         Don't worry about being 'judged' for carrying an entry-level brand; focus on your own competence and reliability with the platform. ·         If you want to customize your revolver, break it in thoroughly first before installing aftermarket springs. -- 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 @gunspodcastus or sign up for our newsletter to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

Is the classic .30-06 Springfield still the ultimate do-everything king of cartridges, or have modern calibers left it in the dust? In this episode of the Guns Podcast US, Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington tackle the great caliber debates, technical shooting myths, and real-world defensive gear. We kick things off with a deep dive into the versatile .30-06—exploring its incredible range of bullet weights, its history in the field, and whether it deserves a spot at the top of your rack. Then, we shift gears to handgun ballistics to answer a tough question: Are high-powered cartridges like the 10mm and .357 SIG actually "too much gun" for self-defense, or do they give you a legitimate tactical edge? Plus, Brent shares an inconvenient truth about who actually pays for wildlife conservation in America (and why bird watchers are getting a free ride), Roy busts a major myth about resting your handgun barrel on a ransom rest, and we share a powerful, real-world defensive shooting perspective from a retired LE trainer in a wheelchair. Grab a mug, pull up a chair, and join the club! -- 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 @gunspodcastus or sign up for our newsletter to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

What is the single most iconic American firearm ever made? In this episode, Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington celebrate the lead-up to America's 250th anniversary by debating the ultimate American gun. From the Colt Single Action Army and the Winchester 94 to the M1 Garand and the Pennsylvania long rifle, we look at the designs that shaped our history and discuss why American gun culture is so fundamentally different from the rest of the world. Key Takeaways: ●   American gun culture prioritizes emotional connection and individual ownership over modular utility. ●   The Colt SAA and the Tommy Gun are the most globally recognized symbols of American history. ●   Authenticity in gun writing is irreplaceable; machine-learning copy cannot replicate decades of actual field experience.  --- 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 @gunspodcastus or sign up for our newsletter to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us