#337 - Mailbag: The Reason Police used "Widow-maker" Ammo and more!

What does it actually mean to be an older shooter? In this episode of the Guns Podcast, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington dive into a candid, humorous, and deeply philosophical discussion about the reality of aging in the shooting sports community. Inspired by a wave of less-than-supportive comments from younger shooters on Instagram, Brent and Roy reflect on the evolution of a shooter's mindset—from the arrogant "know-it-all" youth to a stage in life focused on wisdom, mentorship, and simply enjoying the journey.   They tackle everything from dealing with internet critics and "FUD" name-calling to the physical realities of aching knees, failing eyesight, and why they wouldn't trade their hard-earned experience for youth. Stick around until the end to hear what advice they would give their younger selves, and a few classic police war stories about the psychological art of directing traffic!   In this episode, we discuss: The generational divide between younger Instagram shooters and seasoned veterans.   How the motivation shifts from proving yourself to improving yourself.   Why older shooters are comfortable in their own skin and impervious to online hate.   What Brent and Roy would say to their younger selves if time travel existed.   A hilarious sneak peek into police traffic control stories.   What would you tell your younger self about shooting, gear, or life? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more insights, gear talk, and shooting wisdom from FMG! #GunsPodcast #OlderShooters #ShootingWisdom #GunCommunity #FMGPubs #FirearmsMentorship #PoliceStories --- 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

Host Brent Wheat is joined by Suzi Huntington to discuss her incredibly successful bear hunt in Northern Alberta. After tagging out on two massive bears in just two hours using a Ruger American .308, Susie returned home to a wave of online backlash from old friends and keyboard warriors. We dive into the science of spring bear meat (and why even coyotes won't eat it), the reality of conservation funding, and why you need to stop putting off your bucket-list adventures. Key Takeaways: ● Spring bear meat is poor quality because the animals have been living off fat reserves during hibernation and carry a high risk of trichinosis. ●  Hunters and anglers fund the vast majority of state and provincial wildlife conservation, not animal rights activists. ●  Stop waiting for the 'perfect time' to take your dream adventure; life is short and tomorrow is never guaranteed. --- 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 red dots actually superior for self-defense, or have we fallen victim to clever industry marketing? In this episode of Guns Podcast US, Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington attempt an 'opposite day' debate on red dots vs. iron sights. They break down the realistic training requirements, the physical reality of aging eyes, and some shocking statistics about police hit ratios, shot volume, and target-acquisition hesitation under stress. Watch before you buy your next pistol optic. Key Takeaways: ●        Transitioning to a red dot requires extensive dry-fire presentation practice (up to 100+ hours) to avoid hunting for the dot under stress. ●        Iron sights remain the essential baseline skill—akin to learning to drive a stick shift before driving an automatic. ●        Real-world data shows minor hit-percentage increases with red dots, but at the cost of higher shot volume and potential hesitation.   --- 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

This entire episode belongs to you! Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington open up the mailbag and spend the full hour tackling your direct questions, comments, and hard-hitting feedback on the modern firearms landscape. From the hidden economic barriers of safe-storage laws to why commercial indoor ranges are pricing out average shooters, we're diving deep into the topics you brought to the table to look at how self-defense is slowly becoming a luxury sport. Plus, we answer your specific listener mail regarding the history of the 158-grain .38 Special police load, S&W 940 headspace issues, and the real reason why staring at a former cop in public is a bad idea. Key Takeaways: The Cost of Safety: How DOJ-approved safe mandates act as a financial barrier that keeps low-income citizens from legally owning firearms. Range Regulations: Why commercial range policies banning reloads have dramatically increased the cost of basic shooting proficiency. Vanishing Art: Why developing a relationship with an old-school custom gunsmith is a disappearing necessity in the modern era. --- 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 air rifles just toys for kids, or a legitimate training tool for serious shooters? In this episode of the Guns Podcast, Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington dive into the world of air guns — exploring how these accessible, affordable firearms can help you hone your marksmanship skills without the hassle or expense of visiting a crowded indoor range. From classic Daisy BB guns to high-powered pre-charged pneumatics (PCP), we break down the different types of air rifles and pistols available for every budget. We also cover crucial air gun safety tips, including why you should never use petroleum-based lubricants and the unique recoil impulses that can destroy standard optics. Whether you are setting up a cardboard box trap in your garage or stalking grasshoppers on a backyard safari, this episode will show you why every gun enthusiast needs an air rifle in their collection. Plus, stay tuned to the end as we read some hilarious comments from our listeners, discussing what it means to be a low-speed, high-drag Fudd! Key Takeaways Air rifles provide a cost-effective and highly accessible way to practice shooting fundamentals without going to a public range. You do not need a massive backyard; a simple cardboard box and paper targets in a garage are perfect for close-range air gun training. Avoid using petroleum-based lubricants on air guns, as it can rot the seals and cause dieseling inside the chamber. Break-barrel air rifles have powerful springs and forward recoil impulses that can destroy traditional scopes — always use air-gun-rated optics. High-quality replica airguns and airsoft guns are excellent for teaching the manual of arms safely and effectively. Don't overlook airsoft for force-on-force training, as many tactical professionals use them for realistic practice. --- 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, Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington embrace their inner "Fudds" to discuss why shooting like it's 1955 is the secret to mastering modern firearms. While high-speed, low-drag tactical training is all the rage, we explain why pure bullseye precision shooting is the ultimate foundation for any concealed carry or combat shooter. Discover real-world examples from law enforcement where taking a slow, deliberate shot neutralized the threat, and learn why dumping a magazine at top speed will only ensure you miss faster. We also share two completely free marksmanship drills you can practice on your next range trip using nothing more than a blank piece of paper and a .22 pistol. Tune in to learn why slow is smooth, smooth is fast, and how going back to basics can dramatically shrink your group sizes under pressure. Key Takeaways • Speed is useless without precision; drawing fast only to miss fast will get you or innocent bystanders killed. • Practicing slow, deliberate bullseye fire is a fundamental building block for all shooters, even top-tier tactical operators. • Real-world combat instances prove that remaining calm and applying basic marksmanship fundamentals often end threats instantly. • The mantra 'slow is smooth, smooth is fast' applies directly to building foundational firearm manipulation and accuracy skills. • Try the blank paper and small circle drills with a .22 pistol to diagnose trigger control and sight alignment issues.   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, we tackle one of the most common questions in the firearms community: when does gear stop mattering? Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned competitor, it is easy to fall into the trap of believing that a high-end holster, optic, or custom pistol will instantly transform you into a professional shooter. We break down the reality behind the gear hype and explain why your fundamentals and skills matter far more than the price tag on your equipment. Through relatable analogies—from woodworking tools to scuba diving—Roy and Brent reveal the psychology behind manufacturers' "good, better, best" pricing models and why the middle-tier option is usually the sweet spot for the average, everyday shooter. We also share our personal rules for upgrading gear, including the vital piece of advice: always spend more than you want to, but never less than you should. Tune in to learn how to make smarter purchasing decisions and avoid a closet full of expensive, unused shooting accessories. If you are ready to stop buying gear you don't need and start focusing on becoming a better marksman, this episode is a must-watch. Be sure to hit that subscribe button, leave a comment with your own gear-buying experiences, and check out the links below for more expert firearm tips and reviews! Key Takeaways ·         Buying expensive, high-end gear will not automatically make a beginner a better shooter; fundamental skills are the true foundation. ·         Entry-level equipment is essential for learning the basics before upgrading to precision tools. ·         When deciding to upgrade your gear, implement a 'cooling off' period—do not buy it on the first day you see it. ·         Avoid purchasing the absolute cheapest options on the market, as they usually lack reliability and lead to buyer's remorse. ·         The 'sweet spot' for most normal shooters lies in mid-range gear, which provides the best balance of performance and value. ·         Manufacturers purposefully structure their products in a 'good, better, best' pricing tier to encourage upsells and comprehensive kits. ·         Having more gear does not equate to being a better shooter; focus on training with what you already own to gain real proficiency. --- 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 episode of the Guns Podcast US brought to you by GUNSmagazine.com, host Brent Wheat sits down with long-time friend and Gunsight Academy CEO Ken Campbell to break down the recent security incident at the White House Correspondents Dinner. While mainstream media pundits quickly labeled the event a massive security failure, these two veteran law enforcement officers explain why the exact opposite is true. Dive deep into the tactical realities of 'rings of security' and discover how multiple alphabet soup agencies successfully managed the chaos to keep protectees safe. Beyond the headline news, Brent and Ken share operational debriefs and 'war stories' from their own careers. From guarding former President Bill Clinton and Miss America to running high-ground sniper security for high-profile trials, they reveal the hidden mechanics of VIP protection. Learn the crucial importance of target isolation (Rule 4), and why everyday citizens must embrace the reality that they are their own first responders. Whether you're a seasoned tactical professional or a new gun owner looking to better protect your family, this episode offers invaluable insights into situational awareness, threat assessment, and personal defense.   Key Takeaways • Event security operates in multiple 'rings.' The fact that the attacker was stopped at the middle ring indicates the system worked exactly as intended. • Security agents didn't immediately fire their weapons because of Rule 4 of gun safety (know your target and what is beyond it), preventing potential casualties among VIPs in the line of fire. • Coordinating VIP protection at major events is incredibly complex due to overlapping jurisdictions of multiple agencies, including the Secret Service, Capitol Police, and DoD. • During a crisis, people do not rise to the occasion; they default to their level of training. Consistent, realistic training is crucial for an effective response. • Preparedness and self-defense are not political issues. A growing demographic of non-traditional gun owners are seeking tactical training to protect their families. • No matter how much security is present, you are ultimately your own first responder and must maintain situational awareness at all times. --- 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. --- 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 episode of the Guns Podcast US, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington dive deep into the highly debated topic of staging firearms for home defense. Is it better to carry a concealed weapon on your person at all times, or should you strategically hide firearms throughout your house for quick access? The duo explores the practicalities, tactical considerations, and common pitfalls of keeping staged guns in living rooms, bedrooms, and even vehicles. Drawing from their extensive law enforcement experience, Brent and Roy share real-world stories about the hidden dangers of complex lock boxes, the truth about keeping a gun in your car, and why building muscle memory through training is critical when seconds count. They also discuss clever staging methods, such as utilizing gun magnets and concealment furniture, while cautioning against unsafe practices like stashing firearms deep inside couch cushions. Whether you rely on a bedside lock box, a concealed garage gun, or even a non-lethal impact weapon like a baseball bat, this episode is packed with essential insights to help you build a layered and effective home defense strategy. Tune in to learn how to prepare your home and your mindset for the unexpected. Key Takeaways ·         If you are more than a second or two away from your firearm during a home invasion, it is likely too far away. ·         Carrying a firearm on your person while at home is often more effective and reliable than staging multiple guns around the house. ·         Always maintain standardization in how and where you stage your weapons to avoid mental freeze during a high-stress scenario. ·         Avoid stashing guns in couches or under pillows, as they tend to migrate out of position and collect function-inhibiting debris. ·         Mechanical lock boxes are generally more reliable than electronic ones, but both require extensive practice to open under extreme stress. ·         Storing guns in vehicles overnight or in plain view invites theft; always secure or remove firearms when parking your car outside. ·         Alternative defense tools, like baseball bats or heavy garage tools, can serve as excellent deterrents and secondary options when a firearm is not accessible. Gear Featured in This Episode Looking for the storage and safety solutions mentioned in the video? Check out the links below: •    SOFhold Magnets – Magnetic mounting solutions for quick-access storage. https://SOFhold.com •    Streamlight SpeedLocker – Secure, portable power-free storage. https://Streamlight.com •    Skinner Garment Bag – The ultimate low-profile transport system. https://SkinnersSights.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

In this episode of the GUNS Magazine Podcast, Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington dive deep into the enduring appeal of the snub-nose revolver. Far from being a relic of the past, these compact powerhouses remain a favorite among both veteran law enforcement officers and a new generation of concealed carry enthusiasts. Roy and Brent discuss why snubbies are often the unsung heroes of self-defense, offering unparalleled reliability when you need a get-off-me gun. The duo takes a fascinating look back at firearms history, revealing that despite Hollywood's obsession with the Colt Single Action Army, it was actually the pocket revolver that ruled the Old West. They also tackle the common myth that small-frame revolvers are inaccurate, proving that with the right ammo and practice, your snub-nose can be just as effective as a modern polymer pistol. Whether you're carrying a classic Smith & Wesson J-frame, a Ruger LCP Max, or a Charter Arms Undercover, this episode is packed with practical advice on pocket carry, caliber selection, and keeping your everyday carry (EDC) firearm in fighting shape. Tune in to find out why the humble snub-nose might just be the most reliable tool in your self-defense arsenal. Key Takeaways ·         Pocket revolvers, not large single-action six-shooters, were the true everyday carry guns of the Old West. ·         Snub-nose revolvers are incredibly reliable and require minimal maintenance, making them an ideal backup or primary pocket gun. ·         A small-frame revolver is often referred to as a get-off-me gun, perfect for close-range, sudden self-defense encounters. ·         The myth of the inaccurate snubbie is usually a result of shooter error; these guns are highly capable of tight groups with proper fundamentals. ·         Rather than buying expensive gun accessories, concealed carriers should invest in quality ammunition and dedicated practice. ·         Carrying a pocket gun requires understanding its limitations, such as the difficulty of drawing from a pants pocket while seated in a vehicle. --  The Guns Podcast is presented by EOTech. EOTECH is the leading manufacturer of electro-optics. Known for their world-famous holographic weapon sights, EOTECH also provides precision rifle scopes, ruggedized pistol optics, night-vision, thermal, and laser systems to professional and recreational users around the globe. Visit eotechinc.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