#355- 'Good Enough' Isn't the Enemy

In this candid and thought-provoking episode of the Guns Podcast US, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington tackle the modern epidemic of consumer dissatisfaction within the shooting community. Are you constantly feeling like you need the latest gear to be part of the 'cool crowd'? Do you find yourself spiraling down a rabbit hole of internet forums, second-guessing your purchases, and falling prey to the fear of missing out (FOMO)? Brent and Roy explore the psychological toll of endless information access and the marketing tactics that prey on our need for validation. This episode serves as a refreshing reality check for anyone tired of 'gear anxiety'—reminding us that the joy of shooting is about the experience, not just having the newest, most expensive equipment. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a newcomer, this conversation will change how you view your next firearm or tool purchase. Key Takeaways ·         The internet has shifted the perspective of 'good enough' to 'nothing is ever good enough.' ·         Consumer neurosis occurs when we seek online validation for purchases rather than trusting our experience. ·         FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) is a key marketing driver designed to make consumers feel inadequate. ·         Constant research into gear often replaces the actual hobby of shooting, leading to dissatisfaction. ·         True expertise is built on experience, not just consuming hours of social media content. ·         Focusing on the 'why'—the actual goal of the activity—is the key to finding satisfaction with the gear you already own.   Support by Ruger The Guns Podcast US is supported 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. -- 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].  Also, make sure you visit GunsPodcast.US for Merch and More!

Are you confused by the conflicting headlines surrounding suppressor laws and the recent Texas court ruling? In this episode of the Guns Podcast, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington cut through the misinformation, rumors, and panic-induced reporting to explain what actually changed—and what didn't—for the average gun owner. In this educational episode, the guys dive deep into the world of firearm suppressors, why they have been misunderstood for decades, and how they are becoming more accessible and affordable than ever before. From debunking myths about "silent" guns to discussing why they are the ultimate tool for training new shooters, this episode provides a grounded look at the evolving landscape of firearm accessories. Finally, we break down the practical steps of purchasing a suppressor in today's market, the importance of family trusts, and why owning one is about more than just technology—it's about reclaiming your freedom. Don't let fear hold you back; get the facts you need to make informed decisions for your own shooting experience. Key Takeaways ·         The recent Texas court ruling on suppressors does not mean all NFA rules are gone; context and jurisdiction matter. ·         Suppressors are more accessible than ever, and the purchasing process has been significantly simplified by modern retail solutions. ·         Suppressors do not 'silence' a firearm; they mitigate muzzle blast, making training safer and more pleasant for new shooters. ·         Do not get bogged down in microscopic decibel differences between brands; in the real world, the benefits are nearly universal across most units. ·         Purchasing a suppressor through a family trust is a crucial step for estate planning, ensuring your accessories can be passed on to your family. ·         Suppressors are essentially a 'good neighbor' accessory, helping to manage noise levels in populated shooting areas. -- The Guns Podcast US is supported 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. -- 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].  Also, make sure you visit GunsPodcast.US for Merch and More!  

In this episode of the Guns Podcast, host Brent Wheat and "celebrated" co-host Roy Huntington break down three powerful, universal lessons from the world of master cabinet making that can instantly transform your shooting performance. Often overlooked by those chasing 'high-speed, low-drag' tactics, these foundational principles focus on respect for the craft, the value of deliberate repetition, and the critical importance of obsessing over the basics. Drawing parallels between high-end furniture building and firearms proficiency, Roy explains why slowing down, focusing on the fundamentals, and adopting a 'point and confirm' mindset—inspired by Japanese industrial safety standards—can prevent dangerous mistakes and elevate your skills. Whether you are a beginner or a veteran marksman, this episode offers a Zen-like approach to shooting that prioritizes long-term improvement over quick fixes. Key Takeaways ·         Respect the craft: Shooting is an art and skill that deserves the same level of care as high-end furniture making. ·         Repetition builds perfection: Don't just burn through ammo; use every shot as a deliberate, purposeful practice session. ·         Obsess over the basics: Professionalism comes from mastering fundamental sight alignment, stance, and trigger control, not from complex tricks. ·         Practice deliberate, slow shooting to diagnose accuracy issues before moving to speed. ·         Safety check: Even mundane tasks benefit from a formal 'safety brief' or checklist to prevent catastrophic human error. Support by Ruger The Guns Podcast US is supported 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. -- 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]  

Are you a shooter who has accumulated a garage full of gear you haven't touched in years? In this episode of the Guns Podcast US, host Brent T. Wheat and co-host Roy Huntington tackle a topic that hits close to home for many in the firearm community: hoarding. We explore the psychological burden of holding onto excess gear, the reality of downsizing for older shooters, and why the "I might use this someday" excuse is keeping you from having true freedom. From cleaning out storage units to the tough truth about what your children actually want from your collection, join us for a candid discussion on finding the happy medium between being prepared and being a hoarder. Key Takeaways ·         Most shooters are prone to hoarding under the guise of being 'prepared' for future scenarios. ·         Excess stuff can be a mental burden and a source of unnecessary stress. ·         Your children likely do not want the vast majority of your accumulated 'stuff'; they value cherished memories over physical objects. ·         A great test for whether to keep an item is: Have I used this in the last five years? ·         Giving unused gear to someone who can truly use it provides more personal satisfaction than selling it for pennies on the dollar. ·         Don't fall victim to 'good marketing copy' that convinces you that you need the latest gear when you don't. EPISODE SPONSOR The Guns Podcast US 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 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