#324 - The Real Cost of Gunsmithing: Why You Should Pay a Pro
Release Date: 02/27/2026
#328- Five Costly Mistakes EVERY New Shooter Makes (And How to Fix Them)"
Guns Podcast US
Are you a new shooter falling into the same expensive traps as everyone else? In this episode of the Guns Podcast US, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington sit down to reveal the five things they desperately wish they knew before they started shooting. From the endless lie of needing 'just one more accessory' to the reality that a cooler-looking gun won't automatically improve your aim, Brent and Roy share decades of hilarious and practical firearms wisdom. We also tackle range anxiety, the harsh truth about how fast you will burn through expensive ammunition, and why you really do not need...
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#327 - Gun Fight: Why Beretta and Ruger Are Suddenly at Odds
Guns Podcast US
The firearms industry is known for its camaraderie, but a massive proxy war is currently brewing. In a highly unusual move, Beretta has quietly acquired a significant percentage of Ruger's shares to attempt a hostile corporate takeover. This has led to an unprecedented public clash, complete with dueling press releases and mudslinging, shaking the foundation of the US gun market. In this episode, Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington break down the fundamental differences between European and American firearms manufacturing cultures. They explore how American companies prioritize consumer feedback...
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#326 Reboot - Timeless Guns: the 1911, GLOCK 17 & AR-15 Are NEVER Going Away
Guns Podcast US
In this reboot episode, host Brent Wheat and co-host Roy Huntington dive deep into the fascinating world of timeless firearms. We discuss classic gun designs that have not only stood the test of time but are still highly relevant and widely used today. From iconic revolvers to legendary shotguns, these are the firearms that have successfully bridged the gap between historical heritage and modern utility. We explore what makes certain weapons—like the 1911, the Glock 17, and the Winchester 94—absolute must-haves for any enthusiast. Whether it is the unmatched reliability of the Mauser 98...
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#325- Shooting Before the Internet: Better or Worse?
Guns Podcast US
In this episode of the Guns Podcast, Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington take a trip down memory lane—prompted by a literal lightning strike that knocked Roy off the grid. Without the internet, the duo discusses what the shooting world was like before the digital age took over. They explore the days when information came from dog-eared magazines, crusty experts at the gun counter and the anticipation of mail-order catalogs. Is the instant gratification of today's "Add to Cart" culture ruining the experience of firearm ownership? Roy and Brent debate the pros and cons of the digital revolution,...
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#324 - The Real Cost of Gunsmithing: Why You Should Pay a Pro
Guns Podcast US
In this episode of the Guns Podcast US, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington dive deep into the often misunderstood world of professional gunsmithing. They tackle the common misconceptions found on internet forums, specifically the idea that specialized tasks like "drilling and tapping" or performing an action job are simple DIY projects. Roy, with his extensive experience as a "practicing unofficial gunsmith," explains why professional tooling, jigs, and expertise justify the costs that often shock gun owners. The conversation moves to the dangers of cutting corners, quite literally, when it...
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#323- Stop Blaming Your Gun: The Truth About Trigger Control
Guns Podcast US
Are you consistently hitting low and left on the target? You aren't alone, and it's likely not your sights that are the problem. In this episode of the Guns Podcast, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington dive deep into the most critical fundamental of marksmanship: the trigger pull. They discuss why untrained shooters often view the trigger press as insignificant compared to "high-speed" tactics, and why mastering this single mechanic is the secret to accurate shooting. Roy shares his experiences as a police firearms instructor, breaking down the mechanics of the "trigger jerk" and offering...
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#322 - Should You Carry a Gun at Home? The Nancy Guthrie Incident
Guns Podcast US
In this episode of Guns Podcast U.S., host Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington tackle a topic that makes many uncomfortable: the necessity of carrying a firearm inside your own home. Triggered by the recent kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie (mother of Savannah Guthrie) in Tucson, the duo breaks down the myth of the home as a "King's X" or safe zone where vigilance can be relaxed. They discuss why reliance on a gun in the other room is a recipe for disaster and how crimes of opportunity often unfold faster than you can react. Roy shares his personal home defense setup, ranging from pocket carry...
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#321 - Firearms Training: Essential Life Skill or Elite Club?
Guns Podcast US
In this episode of the Guns Podcast U.S., hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington dive deep into the crucial topic of professional firearms training. While many gun owners believe growing up hunting or previous military experience is enough, Brent and Roy explain why shooting is a perishable skill that requires ongoing education and consistent tactical standards. They break down the three distinct tiers of training available to civilians: the local gun instructor, the itinerant traveling trainer, and prestigious academies like Gunsite and Thunder Ranch. Finding the right teacher can be daunting,...
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#320 - 2026 SHOT Show: A Stabbing, Budget Suppressors and the Chinese Invasion
Guns Podcast US
In this episode of the Guns Podcast U.S., hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington celebrate a massive milestone—surpassing one million certified audio downloads! After a quick victory lap, Brent dives into his fresh report from the floor of SHOT Show. He debunks the wild rumors regarding a stabbing incident near the venue and gives a boots-on-the-ground assessment of the show's attendance and atmosphere, noting a distinct downturn in the industry's energy compared to previous years. The conversation shifts to the major hardware trends observed at the show. Brent and Roy discuss the explosion of...
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#319 The Best First .22 Rifle: Semi-Auto vs. Bolt-Action
Guns Podcast US
In this episode of Guns Podcast U.S., hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington tackle one of the most common questions in the shooting world: What is the best first .22 rifle for a new shooter? Whether you are buying for a child, a spouse, or yourself, the impulse is often to grab a popular semi-automatic like a Ruger 10/22. However, Roy and Brent argue why that might be a mistake that hinders long-term skill development. They discuss the philosophy of "Slow down, Speed Racer," explaining how single-shot and bolt-action rifles force new shooters to focus on the essentials like sight...
info_outlineIn this episode of the Guns Podcast US, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington dive deep into the often misunderstood world of professional gunsmithing. They tackle the common misconceptions found on internet forums, specifically the idea that specialized tasks like "drilling and tapping" or performing an action job are simple DIY projects. Roy, with his extensive experience as a "practicing unofficial gunsmith," explains why professional tooling, jigs, and expertise justify the costs that often shock gun owners.
The conversation moves to the dangers of cutting corners, quite literally, when it comes to clipping springs or installing drop-in kits without proper fitting. Roy shares horror stories of "kitchen table" gunsmithing, including a Colt Python that was rendered unsafe by an amateur trigger job. They discuss the critical difference between a simple spring swap and a true action job that involves timing, polishing, and safety checks.
Finally, the duo discusses the value of professional deep cleaning and safety inspections, even for "bag guns" that haven't been shot in years. They also manage expectations regarding wait times for top-tier custom smiths like Hamilton Bowen. Whether you are looking to mount a red dot on your 1911 or restore a family heirloom, this episode serves as a guide on why the "buy once, cry once" philosophy is essential for firearm maintenance.
Key Takeaways
• "Drill and tap" is not a simple garage project; it requires precision milling machines, centering tools, and carbide tooling to be done correctly.
• A spring kit is not a substitute for a professional action job; simply lightening springs without polishing surfaces can lead to misfires and gritty actions.
• Professional gun cleaning services are valuable because they often include a critical safety inspection that can identify dangerous wear or missing parts.
• Cutting coils off a spring changes its dynamics and reliability; professional gunsmiths use engineered springs or properly reduce diameter rather than length.
• Low-cost gunsmithing (e.g., a $50 action job) is often a red flag that can result in ruined parts and more expensive repairs later.
• Top-tier gunsmiths often have long wait times (months or years) because they are in high demand; patience is required for custom work.
• Attempting DIY repairs on high-value or out-of-production guns runs a high risk of destroying irreplaceable parts.
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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
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