#316 - Why Gun Forums Push New Shooters Away

In this episode of the Guns Podcast, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington take a sharp left turn from their planned topic to address a growing frustration in the shooting community: the toxicity of internet gun forums. With Roy now officially on board as co-host, the duo dissects the "keyboard warrior" mentality that plagues online discussions, where anonymity often emboldens users to tear down new shooters rather than offer helpful advice. Roy shares personal anecdotes ranging from helpful car mechanics to the disastrous reception of the Thunder Ranch Special on a Smith & Wesson forum. The conversation explores the psychology behind online aggression, contrasting the loud, opinionated "experts" who have never handled the firearms they critique with the quiet, modest professionals who actually know the trade.  The episode serves as a call to action for decency and mentorship. Brant and Roy argue that the industry's future relies on welcoming new enthusiasts with patience and respect, rather than gatekeeping and elitism. Whether you are a veteran collector or a novice looking for advice, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on how to navigate—and improve—the culture of online firearms communities. *Key Takeaways* • Anonymity often fuels aggression on internet forums, allowing people to behave in ways they never would face-to-face. • New shooters are frequently discouraged by toxic responses to basic questions, which hurts the growth of the gun community. • True experts and professionals are usually the most modest and helpful members of a community, while aggressive posters often mask a lack of real experience. • The "Thunder Ranch Special" story illustrates how even industry legends can be driven away by forum trolls. • Moderation is critical; forums that vet comments or enforce civility tend to be far more valuable resources. • Mentorship is the antidote to toxicity; experienced shooters should strive to build others up rather than tear them down. --- The Guns Podcast is presented by TangoDown. TangoDown® has been a leader in firearms parts and accessories for over two decades. From upgrades for everyday carry firearms to rifle accessories, TangoDown® has something for each firearm enthusiast.  To learn more and shop the diverse product line, visit https://tangodown.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 to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week! Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

Join host Brent Wheat and the newly appointed "official" co-host Roy Huntington for a thought-provoking post-Christmas discussion on this episode of the Guns Magazine Podcast. The duo tackles a controversial question: Are today's shooters actually more skilled than the marksmen of the past? They explore how technology, from high-tech optics to the internet, has revolutionized the learning curve for modern gun owners.   While acknowledging the "Golden Age" of gear and information availability, Brent and Roy also examine the downsides of modern shooting culture. They discuss the high cost of entry, the "fanboy" mentality driven by social media algorithms, and the loss of the generalist outdoorsman. Whether you're a seasoned graybeard or a new shooter learning on YouTube, this episode offers a balanced perspective on the evolution of marksmanship and hunting culture. Key Takeaways •    Roy Huntington is finally named the "official" co-host following listener feedback. •    The consensus is that modern shooters are generally more skilled due to better resources. •    The internet has replaced magazines and mentors as the primary source of shooting knowledge, speeding up the learning curve. •    Budget-friendly modern rifles and optics often outperform expensive custom gear from 40 years ago. •    The "Fanboy" phenomenon is largely driven by internet algorithms that create echo chambers. •    While skills and gear have improved, access to shooting land and hunting grounds has significantly decreased. •    We are currently living in a "Golden Age" for firearms enthusiasts despite higher costs. -- 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 to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

In this special holiday episode of The Guns Podcast, host Brent Wheat flies solo while Roy is on the road to break down the firearms, myths, and movie magic found in our favorite Christmas films. Whether you fall on the side that "Die Hard" is the ultimate Christmas movie or prefer the nostalgia of "A Christmas Story," Brent dives deep into the specific models, props, and glaring errors that appear on screen. From the chopped HK94s standing in for MP5s at Nakatomi Plaza to the impossible physics of a hockey-puck flashbang, this episode covers the technical details gun nerds love to spot. Brent also discusses the modified prop guns in "Home Alone," the unspoken anti-gun messaging in "A Christmas Story," and how a minigun from "Predator" made its way into a Bill Murray holiday classic. Join us for a fun, festive look at Hollywood's portrayal of firearms. While these movies provide endless entertainment, Brent reminds us why the silver screen makes for a terrible firearms instructor and how we can use these moments to teach real-world safety to the next generation of shooters. Key Takeaways - The MP5s used by terrorists in Die Hard were actually chopped HK94s because real MP5s were scarce in Hollywood at the time. - Many background guns in movies like Die Hard are actually Japanese MGC model gun replicas, identifiable by allen screw in the forward assist. - The "hockey puck" flashbang used in Die Hard does not exist in reality; it was a Hollywood invention for dramatic effect. - The Daisy Red Ryder in A Christmas Story featured a compass in the stock, a feature that did not exist on the production air rifle of that era. - In Home Alone, the sound of a handheld tape recorder playing a movie clip would be far too tinny to realistically simulate a Thompson submachine gun. - The minigun used by Lee Majors in "Scrooged" is the exact same prop gun used in the movie "Predator." - Hollywood movies often reinforce bad habits; never use entertainment as a substitute for actual firearms training. -- 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 U.S., hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington tackle the age-old question facing new shooters and gift-givers: What is the best first gun to buy? They challenge the common misconception that smaller, lightweight firearms are easier for beginners to handle, explaining why a larger frame often leads to a better learning experience and less recoil intimidation. The duo also dives into the "Call of Duty" effect, discussing how video games give a false sense of competency regarding firearms handling, mechanics, and physics. Through personal anecdotes involving family members and friends, Roy and Brent illustrate the stark contrast between virtual shooting and the real-world skills required to operate a firearm safely. Finally, with the holiday season in mind, the hosts discuss the ethics and logistics of gifting firearms. They offer practical advice on why surprising someone with a gun might not be the best idea and suggest alternative gifts like training or accessories that empower the new shooter to make their own informed decisions. Key Takeaways - Small, lightweight guns often have sharper recoil and are harder for beginners to control than medium or large-frame firearms. - Avoid buying a firearm as a surprise gift unless you know exactly what the recipient wants; consider gift cards or training instead. - Video game experience does not translate to real-world shooting skills or safety knowledge. - A 4-inch K-frame revolver is often cited as an ideal learning tool due to its simplicity and manageable recoil. - Complex semi-autos with external safeties can be overwhelming for a novice compared to the simplicity of a revolver. - Gifting a gun to a child or novice implies a long-term commitment to mentoring them in safety and maintenance. - Start beginners with basic tools and simple firearms before moving on to expensive, complex 'tactical' gear.  - 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, host Brent Wheat and co-host Roy Huntington tackle the absurd and often dangerous world of gimmick self-defense weapons. Sparked by a ridiculous advertisement for a "tactical" laser-sighted slingshot, the duo dives into a laundry list of bad ideas, ranging from bows and arrows to flare guns and blowguns. With decades of law enforcement experience between them, they explain exactly why these items should remain toys rather than life-saving tools. However, it's not all about what doesn't work. Brent and Roy pivot to discussing "Plan B" options that actually have merit when a firearm isn't available or appropriate. They explore the practical applications of black powder revolvers, the surprising effectiveness of a sturdy walking cane, and the realities of carrying a knife for defense. They also provide a nuanced look at pepper spray, discussing its tactical advantages and the inevitable reality of cross-contamination. Finally, the conversation covers the concept of the "Use of Force Continuum." The hosts discuss how intermediate tools like expandable batons or pepper spray can de-escalate situations before lethal force becomes necessary. Whether you are looking to validate your skepticism about mall-ninja gear or find a legitimate backup defensive tool, this episode offers a blend of humor and hard-earned street wisdom. Takeaways Slingshots and blowguns are recreational toys, not viable self-defense tools, regardless of laser sights or marketing claims. While bows and crossbows are lethal, they are impractical for self-defense due to size and reload speed compared to modern options. Flare guns are designed for signaling, not stopping threats, and often fail to penetrate or incapacitate effectively. A sturdy walking cane is an excellent "Plan B" defensive tool that is legal to carry almost anywhere, including airplanes. Knives should be considered a last resort; the primary rule of a knife fight is to avoid being in one, as getting cut is almost guaranteed. Pepper spray is a valid intermediate option, but users must be prepared for the reality that they will likely be affected by the spray as well. Understanding the "Use of Force Continuum" allows for options like de-escalation and less-lethal tools before resorting to a firearm. - 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 U.S., host Brent Wheat and special guest Roy Huntington dive deep into the critical decision-making process of self-defense. Taking a cue from the classic Kenny Rogers song, they discuss knowing "when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em" regarding lethal force. The conversation challenges the "keyboard commando" mentality, emphasizing that carrying a firearm does not obligate you to be a hero in every situation. Drawing from decades of combined law enforcement experience, Brent and Roy explore the "Scared Bunny Defense" and why evading a threat is often the superior tactical choice over engaging. They analyze real-world scenarios—from domestic disputes in parking lots to potential active shooter situations—to illustrate the legal and physical risks of inserting yourself into third-party conflicts. The episode also covers Jeff Cooper's Color Codes of Awareness and the stark difference between shooting paper targets and handling the adrenaline of a real-life confrontation. KEY TAKEAWAYS - The "Scared Bunny Defense"—retreating or avoiding conflict entirely—is often the most tactical and legally sound option for concealed carriers. - Carrying a gun requires leaving your ego at home; engaging in a conflict just to save face can lead to prison or death. - Possessing a firearm does not equal having the training to use it effectively; without stress inoculation, shooters often revert to zero skills. - Utilize Jeff Cooper's Color Codes (White, Yellow, Orange, Red) to maintain situational awareness and avoid being caught unprepared. - Intervening in third-party situations (like domestic disputes or robberies) exposes you to massive liability and physical danger often outweighing the benefits. - Distraction techniques, such as throwing a fake money clip or verbally de-escalating, can be effective alternatives to drawing a weapon. -- 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 urgent episode of the Guns Podcast, host Brent Wheat addresses the ongoing and undeclared war against firearms content creators on a well-known major video platform. Brent details the recent community guideline strikes leveled against the podcast for older, previously compliant videos—a tactic he describes as "digital terrorism." He breaks down the timeline of events, including a strike for a historical review of a Single Action Army revolver, and explains how retroactive enforcement creates an impossible environment for creators to navigate. Beyond the immediate channel strikes, Brent analyzes the broader strategy at play: removing financial incentives to dry up content, which ultimately aims to starve the gun culture itself. He highlights the glaring double standards where mainstream media outlets can skirt rules that crush independent gun channels. Finally, Brent discusses the future of the show, the potential move to alternative platforms like Rumble and issues a call to action for listeners and politicians to protect free speech regarding the Second Amendment. Key Takeaway Brent's definition of "digital terrorism" and how retroactive enforcement of new rules on old videos traps content creators. The specific timeline of strikes received by the Guns Podcast US in 2025. The ultimate strategy of anti-gun groups: de-monetize content to kill the culture and weaken the Second Amendment. Examples of double standards where mainstream media outlets (like Wired) are allowed to show 3D printed guns while gun channels are penalized for historical reviews. The "death penalty" policy for channels receiving three strikes in 90 days. The necessity of political pressure from the administration and Congress to ensure fair treatment on the major platforms How to find the Guns Podcast if it is removed from the current video platform. -- 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, 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