TFB Behind the Gun Podcast
The Behind The Gun podcast from The Firearm Blog is a recurring series of conversations with influential individuals within the firearms community. TFB Editor In Chief Pete Interviews industry leaders about their successes, failures and glimpses into the future of firearms and equipment development. The Behind The Gun podcast series is politically non-partisan and is a free-flow of information regarding a wide range of topics including self defense, sport shooting, firearms technology and more. Visit www.TheFirearmBlog.com and www.TFB.TV for additional quality content updated daily.
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TFB Behind the Gun #162: What's In Your Range Bag?
04/17/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #162: What's In Your Range Bag?
On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we're speaking with Kevin from The Carry Handle podcast about what's in our range bags. Anyone who shoots likely has a range bag or at least something to carry all of their gear to the range with them when they shoot away from home. Typically I bring at a minimum a set of ear protection, eye protection, and some medical gear. However, over the years, both Kevin and I have allowed our range equipment to somewhat balloon, and in today's discussion, we'll both try to defend and justify the equipment we choose to drag to the range with us.
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TFB Behind the Gun #161: ACE Virtual Shooting First Impressions w/ Bryce
04/10/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #161: ACE Virtual Shooting First Impressions w/ Bryce
On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun podcast, we've brought Bryce from The Carry Handle podcast to talk about our recent fascination with the ACE Virtual Shooting Simulator (Ace XR). ACE XR describes itself as the "premier shooting and pistol training platform" for the Meta series of completely wireless virtual headsets. When you combine the Quest VR headset, one of the controllers, and an ACE handset, you've got everything you need to dive right into a virtual shooting range that can be changed in an instant. Bryce and I have both had a bit of experience with the system, and today we're going to give you some of our first impressions about the system, including the sticker shock, perceived training value, and who might actually benefit from this type of game or platform. Please give a warm welcome back to Bryce from the Carry Handle Podcast!
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TFB Behind the Gun #160: Tom Kubiniec w/ SecurIt Tactical
04/03/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #160: Tom Kubiniec w/ SecurIt Tactical
On today’s episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, we’re chatting with Tom Kubiniec from SecureIt Tactical about all things gun storage. SecureIt’s been around for over two decades, starting out by designing armories for the military and law enforcement before branching out to civilian and commercial sales. Tom and his crew aren’t just about locking guns away—they’re pros at keeping them organized, too. Tom walks us through his work with the U.S. military, sharing how SecureIt’s clever designs make life easier for military, law enforcement, and everyday gun owners by keeping their gear tidy and secure. With years of experience under his belt, he’s spotted what’s outdated in the gun storage and safe world and come up with fresh ideas that fit today’s firearms, collections, and shooters’ needs. So, what does SecureIt actually offer? They’ve got a lineup that’s pretty impressive—like the a lightweight gun safe with their that lets you customize how you store your rifles and gear. There’s also the , perfect for quick-access hidden storage, and their gun wall kits that turn your space into a slick, organized display. Whether you’re looking for a heavy-duty cabinet or a retrofit kit to upgrade an old safe, they’ve got options that mix practicality with some serious innovation.
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TFB Behind the Gun #159: SIM-X Ammo with Bill Reilly
03/27/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #159: SIM-X Ammo with Bill Reilly
In this episode of TFB Behind the Gun Podcast, we sit down with Bill Reilly, founder of SIM-X Ammunition, to unpack the story behind his company and its practical take on ammo design for training, competition, and self-defense. Bill opens up about how his hobby of shooting in his basement drove him back to school and sparked the creation of SIM-X. He breaks down the ammo’s competition roots and how it’s engineered for performance in both training and matches. Operating out of northern Salt Lake City, Utah, SIM-X focuses on lightweight, high-velocity rounds tailored for shooters who value function and reliability. We dig into Bill’s journey and explore how SIM-X goes beyond performance, contributing to healthier shooting habits with its lead-free ammunition in a no-nonsense chat about what’s next for the industry.
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TFB Behind the Gun #158: The State of American Gun Culture w/ Agent Espo
03/20/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #158: The State of American Gun Culture w/ Agent Espo
On today’s episode of TFB's Behind the Gun podcast, we’re joined by to tackle some serious—and not-so-serious—topics swirling around the gun industry and community. While many enthusiasts rightfully revel in the full enjoyment of their firearms, others argue that the culture could use a bit more gravity. Agent Espo and I dive into the diverse perspectives shaping American gun culture, exploring how we—as content creators, reviewers, and writers—can address the negative undertones within our own circles. From dispelling myths to fostering a welcoming vibe, we’ll discuss ways to bring more folks into the fold and make gun ownership a regular thing for all. Tune in for a candid, no-filter chat!
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TFB Behind the Gun #157: The Competitive Spectrum at The Proving Grounds
03/13/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #157: The Competitive Spectrum at The Proving Grounds
Today we're back in the studio with Dan, Matt, and Chris - all competitors in The Proving Grounds, a set of competitions that takes place in the Southeastern region of the united states and is open to all levels of shooters who want to get out there and test their skills with their weapons in a friendly and competitive environment. This time, Matt and Dan are back to talk with us about their competition. This competition takes the typical two-gun format and flips the focus to long-range shooting and team communication as the paramount skills needed to be a winner here along with your shooting partner for the day. To that end, Matt and Dan have also brought along special guest Chris with them who is a bonafide active Military Sniper instructor who is not only a competitor in the Proving Grounds, but also has helped shape some of the courses for the TSS match so that they have some real good training potential in them aside from just the competitive aspect. In addition to Chris sharing some of his professional insights with us, we'll also talk to the boys to hear about the competition, the mindset behind it, what to expect if you show up to a match, and, of course what they'll be running for this year's TSS match. Please give a warm welcome back to Dan, Matt, and now Chris from The Proving Grounds Competition!
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TFB Behind the Gun #156: Hamming It Up w/ Hammy3DPrints
03/06/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #156: Hamming It Up w/ Hammy3DPrints
Back during SHOT Show 2025 on we took some time to speak with Mr. Hammy3DPrints. Going mostly by "Hammy" online, Hammy has turned the hobby of 3D printing into a business that's mostly centered around the firearms industry. Gun storage is not just an important factor to consider when you have guns in the home, it's also one area where a lot of people tend to have trouble finding displays that are both functional and affordable. Hammy has made a large part of his business dedicated to exactly that - organization. Today, we'll talk about some of his designs, what initially got him into 3D printing, and how he has managed to turn that from a single printer into a new army of printers producing thousands of parts for everything from killflashes for your optics to displaying your favorite guns and rare pieces of ordnance. If this sounds like something you need in your life or at least in your garage or gun room, go ahead and check out his website where he's probably got something you'd probably find useful on your guns or where you store your guns.
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TFB Behind the Gun #155: Gun Tinkering w/ The Carry Handle Podcast
02/27/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #155: Gun Tinkering w/ The Carry Handle Podcast
Firearms customization has been around for probably as long as firearms have. This week on TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast we’ve brought back the hosts from The Carry Handle Podcast - Kevin and Bryce - to talk about an often hotly debated topic: Do you or Don’t you modify your guns? As Americans, we have access to a litany of firearms and related accessories. In some cases and for a lot of us, our first AR-15 was probably made entirely out of individually purchased parts rather than sold as a complete rifle. Today Bryce and Kevin will discuss whether or not they like to approach firearms this way and why. As you’ll see everything is not so black and white, but when it comes to tweaking and progressively updating firearms, you’ll find that not everyone is on the same page. Please give a warm welcome back to the guys from The Carry Handle Podcast - Bryce and Kevin!
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TFB Behind the Gun #154: Steve Foster, Crazy Ivan, & Creekside Custom
02/20/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #154: Steve Foster, Crazy Ivan, & Creekside Custom
On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we've brought on competitive Grand Master shooter Steve Foster to talk a bit about not just himself, but about some of the great things he's been getting up to lately. Steve is a highly accomplished Steel Challenge shooter having gained GM in multiple disciplines as well as setting the world record . Being a competitive shooter, Steve naturally tinkered with his guns and through that tinkering not only did he wind up starting his own custom parts business, but he also happened to become familiar with the parts of Karl Van Keuren and his Crazy Ivan Brand. Although the Crazy Ivan brand hasn't seen much activity in the years since Karl's passing today we've got some great news for fans of the brand and of shooting in general. Around the start of the new year Steve and his company Creekside Custom announced that they would be taking over the Crazy Ivan brand and continuing production of his most popular products like the OG Chassis for the 10/22, as well as giving customers new products as well that build off of Karl's original vision and drive. Much like Karl, Steve himself is driven not only by his desire to have the parts that he likes for his guns but to share his experience and enjoyment of firearms with others as you'll hear today in the pocast. Please give a warm welcome to Steve Foster in this week's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast!
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TFB Behind the Gun #153: Spartan Hunting Thoughts w/ Rob Gearing
02/13/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #153: Spartan Hunting Thoughts w/ Rob Gearing
This week on TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome back backcountry hunting veteran and founder of Spartan Precision Equipment, Mr. Rob Gearing. If you tuned in last time, you’ll recall that Rob and I explored Spartan Precision’s extensive range of bipods and tripods—renowned for their forward-thinking, modular design and dependable performance in tough conditions. But today, we’re focusing on another one of Rob’s driving passions: backcountry hunting. Backcountry hunting is one of the few hunting-related subjects I’ve been fascinated with in more recent years. Rob, has spent decades traveling the world—venturing into the rugged mountains of New Zealand, the sweeping plains of Africa, and the remote wilderness of Scotland—all in pursuit of challenging hunts. He’s here to share the invaluable experience and insight he’s gained along the way, shedding light on the essential gear, physical preparation, and mindset needed to thrive in some of the most demanding environments on Earth and combine it with the skills to bring home the kill. While Spartan Precision Equipment might be best known for their featherweight Javelin bipod—tipping the scales at just a few ounces—they also offer a broad lineup of versatile shooting supports, from the Sentinel tripod to the Davros head. Thanks to Rob’s constant drive for innovation, these products are designed to help hunters stay agile and adaptable in unpredictable terrain. During our conversation, we’ll touch on how his deep-rooted passion for hunting fuels the design process, and how he hopes these breakthroughs can encourage more people to take part in backcountry adventures. So whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just curious about this exhilarating pursuit, join us for a deep dive into Rob Gearing’s world. You’ll hear captivating stories from his decades-long career, practical advice for getting started, and a wealth of tips on staying safe and successful in remote wilderness settings. Our hope is that this episode inspires more hunting enthusiasts—both novice and veteran—to discover the unique challenges and rewards of backcountry hunting.
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TFB Behind the Gun #152: American Guntrepeneurship w/ Ares Combat Systems
02/06/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #152: American Guntrepeneurship w/ Ares Combat Systems
Working in this industry full–time and hosting this podcast I get to talk to a lot of interesting characters, but I don’t often get to meet them in person very often. SHOT Show is one of the few times during the year that I finally get to meet people in person that I’ve only ever known online. This year, I caught up with Emmanuel—owner and operator of Ares Combat Systems as well as American Steppe Gear—who helped put one of the coolest 5.56 AKs I’ve ever tested into my hands and is one of the only companies in the US to produce hunting gear specifically designed for school-aged children. A U.S. Army veteran, Emmanuel has worked on everything from soft goods to firearms and is now shifting his sights to the night vision world with his new Helios solar-charging battery pack. We discussed his transition from military service to gun industry entrepreneur, along with the origins and development of Helios—designed to be a powerful, portable solution for on-the-go charging for night vision and thermal devices.
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TFB Behind the Gun #151: SHOT 2025 Deep Dive with Wade Reed
01/30/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #151: SHOT 2025 Deep Dive with Wade Reed
On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, Wade Reed returns to join Luke for a deep dive into all things SHOT 2025. He also shares details about his latest projects, including a new rimfire ammunition lineup that’s poised to take the market by storm. Although details are still under wraps, this episode reveals as much as possible about the new ammo, along with the ways Wade aims to connect with and support others in the industry. By working together, Wade hopes to foster both the best products and the best people for 2nd Amendment supporters. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this special episode recorded right at SHOT Show 2025.
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TFB Behind the Gun #150: Meprolight's SHOT 2025 Lineup w/ Jordan S.
01/23/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #150: Meprolight's SHOT 2025 Lineup w/ Jordan S.
On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, Jordan S. from Meprolight USA returns to discuss some of their new optics for 2025. Meprolight has made a big impact on the U.S. firearms market recently by offering a variety of easy-to-use duty-grade optics like self-illuminated tritium night sights, red dot optics, and reflex sights. Their products show up on plenty of American-made guns right out of the box, and you can also pick them up from almost any reputable gun shop to upgrade your existing firearms. From casual enthusiasts and competitive shooters to law enforcement officers, folks appreciate Meprolight’s rugged build quality, consistent performance in low-light conditions, and user-friendly designs that make hitting your target a breeze. Today Jordan is on the show to tell us about some new territory that Meprolight is stepping into, including their first ever civilian version of the STING laser aiming module, as well as a brand new line of variable magnification optics - a first-ever for Meprolight as a company.
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TFB Behind the Gun #149: Navigating Tricky IL Gun Laws w/ Dave S
01/16/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #149: Navigating Tricky IL Gun Laws w/ Dave S
Welcome back to another episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast. Today I'd like to introduce all of you to Dave S who not only has a ton of experience in today's topic but also has a lifetime of experience working with small arms and even crew-served weapons as part of the U.S Army. In addition to his skillsets, Dave has also been an avid supporter of both TFB and TFBTV so when the topic of Illinois gun law came up, I could think of no one better to talk to than him. Today Dave is going to take us through the considerably confusing world of firearms ownership in the State of Illinois. While it is indeed possible to own guns in IL, the current laws on the books combined with the culture that's put out by the media mean that a lot of people just don't know what the rules are when it comes to buying, owning, and using firearms in their home state. Dave has spent a lifetime collecting, building, and shooting guns in IL and is here today to help guide us through the processes we'd need to go through if we lived in the state too. So please give your attention and a warm welcome to David S!
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TFB Behind the Gun #148: Small Arms Airworthiness w/ Boondock Ballistician
01/09/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #148: Small Arms Airworthiness w/ Boondock Ballistician
Today on TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we've brought on Jessie also known as Boondock Ballistician. Jessie's full-time job lies within small arms testing and development. Jessie recently brought up a pretty interesting topic that piqued my interest as a pilot, which is how small arms are treated and tested to different standards when they're intended to be used and or primarily transported by military aircraft. As opposed to most ground-based operations, aircraft including helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft have to take into account many different flight-related factors that actually have a direct effect on the way projectiles, propellants, and even the firearms themselves operate and Jessie's day job is to find out where that breaking point is and help the military develop arms and ammunition that can be used in these intense aerial combat environments. While she's not a liberty to reveal the mysterious organization for which she does this work for, you can definitely check out her other work which includes some nitty gritty details she's learned from her day job over on her
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TFB Behind the Gun #147: New Year's DMR and Shotgun Talk w/ Bryce and Kevin
01/02/2025
TFB Behind the Gun #147: New Year's DMR and Shotgun Talk w/ Bryce and Kevin
Happy New Year everyone and welcome back to another episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast. Throughout the year I've had the opportunity to experience firearms in many new ways through training classes and various media events. DMRs and Shotguns are still by far the firearms that I touch the least, and today the guys from The Carry Handle podcast are coming on the show to discuss how each of these very different platforms might be more similar than you'd initially assume. Our guests today, Kevin and Bryce, will share their thoughts with us on this subject as well as what they're anticipating most from this year's SHOT Show 2025 taking place in just a couple of weeks. Be sure to check out The Carry Handle Podcast on Spotify for the latest episodes from Kevin and Bryce!
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TFB Behind The Gun #146: Col. Julian T. Urquidez of Texas Triggers
12/26/2024
TFB Behind The Gun #146: Col. Julian T. Urquidez of Texas Triggers
On today's episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, we're joined by a special guest from the U.S. Army: Colonel Julian T. Urquidez. As the Director of Operations for the United States Army Futures Command—a department dedicated to modernizing the Army’s tools— as a result, Colonel Urquidez is also actively interested in weapons development, implementation, and modernization which also fuels his passion for his projects in the civilian world. We first crossed paths at TriggrCon 2024, where he and the other owners of the now-defunct Trigger Empire introduced me to their “Kono Trigger.” In the wake of Trigger Empire’s closure, Colonel Urquidez intends to offer its former customers a new product: the Texas Triggers “Diablo” AK Forced Reset Trigger. Today, he takes us through the entire story—from how this journey started to his vision for the future of this exciting new venture.
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TFB Behind the Gun #145: The Proving Grounds 2024 Championship Post-Match Recap
12/19/2024
TFB Behind the Gun #145: The Proving Grounds 2024 Championship Post-Match Recap
In this week’s episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, we’re going to have both old and new guests on the show. Today we’re talking about The Proving Grounds Competition now that our guests have had a chance to put themselves through it. Held annually at The Sawmill Training Complex in Laurens, South Carolina—a sprawling 240-acre training facility known for its top-tier tactical courses—The Proving Grounds thrusts competitors into an intense two-day gauntlet. Built around rifle, and pistol shooting, the match doesn’t just test your marksmanship; it tests grit, stamina, and mental fortitude by weaving in climbing, running, weighted carries, and other physically punishing obstacles in addition to many odd shooting positions. Open to both novices and diehard multi-gun veterans, The Proving Grounds has become infamous for pushing shooters to their limits. Successful participants don’t just demonstrate accuracy; they also learn to adapt quickly and maintain focus under stress. Beyond the adrenaline rush, it’s a camaraderie-driven event, with seasoned pros mentoring newcomers in everything from proper gear selection to advanced shooting techniques and even providing gear for those who really want to try, but just might not think they have the proper set of tools yet. Now that this year’s match has wrapped up, we’ve invited a few familiar faces to share their thoughts. Joining us for a post-game debrief are returning Stage ROs Matt and Dan, second-place finisher Austin, and Timmy—a fresh face to the competition scene, who served as Stage 1 RO. Together, they’ll shed light on the behind-the-scenes prep work, the most challenging courses, and what it takes to thrive in an environment designed to push your skills to the brink. Sponsors of The Proving Grounds: Brave Castle
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TFB Behind the Gun #144 - Getting to Know Bryce w/ The Carry Handle Podcast
12/12/2024
TFB Behind the Gun #144 - Getting to Know Bryce w/ The Carry Handle Podcast
In today's episode, I've brought on fellow podcaster Bryce from The Carry Handle Podcast to talk about his show and some hot topics currently being discussed and debated in the firearms world. Bryce has been producing firearms-related content for a long time with his roots on YouTube spanning back to his days reviewing airsoft guns. Fast forward to today and he and his buddy Kevin (the Co-Host of The Carry Handle Podcast) have started a new podcast that discusses everything from the firearms industry to more practical applications and use cases for firearms, gear, and components often found in video games. Today Bryce and I will discuss not only his podcast but also the upcoming Gundie Awards (the firearm industry's version of the Oscars), as well as some shop talk about the firearm that was recently used in the assassination of a United Health Care CEO. Please sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode featuring Bryce of The Carry Handle Podcast.
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TFB Behind the Gun #143 Silver Screen Wheel Guns w/ Sam & Hop
12/05/2024
TFB Behind the Gun #143 Silver Screen Wheel Guns w/ Sam & Hop
In this episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, I’m happy to bring back TFB Writer Sam S and TFBTV’s Hop to talk all about Silver Screen Wheel Guns. The revolver holds a special place in American culture, thanks in no small part to its starring role in the Western genre. These stories, with their dusty landscapes and iconic heroes or anti-heroes, helped cement the wheel gun as more than just a firearm—it became a symbol of resilience and self-reliance. Even today, revolvers continue to bring in both seasoned shooters and new enthusiasts alike, not just for their simplicity and reliability but for the way they embody a bygone era where survival was an art and justice was often self-served at the hands of regular everyday citizens. From their unmistakable silhouette to their storied presence on the silver screen and in real-life American history, revolvers remain a timeless reminder of the independence that shaped the American West. It’s a legacy that still sparks lively debates and shared admiration among revolver fans, whether at the range, in a conversation about classic films, or in their sometimes less-than-accurate representations in said films. Today we hope you’ll join us in celebrating this specific genre of guns, and the films we often get to know them by.
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TFB Behind the Gun #142: Rob Gearing w/ Spartan Precision Equipment
11/28/2024
TFB Behind the Gun #142: Rob Gearing w/ Spartan Precision Equipment
Welcome to today’s episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast! I’m thrilled to have Rob Gearing on the show—a lifelong shooter, hardcore hunter, and the founder of Spartan Precision Equipment. Rob has a fascinating background, and today, he’s here to share not only his personal journey but also the story of Spartan and how it’s shaking up the world of shooting gear. Spartan Precision started with just one product: the Javelin Bipod. It was designed with hunters in mind—lightweight, practical, and built to last. But Rob and his team didn’t stop there. Over the years, Spartan has grown into a powerhouse, making not only bipods for backcountry hunters but also adaptable tripods and bipods that fit perfectly into tactical and competition roles. They’ve stayed true to their hunting roots while keeping an eye on what shooters need now and in the future. In this episode, Rob and I dig into what makes Spartan tick, why their gear is becoming more popular here in the U.S., and—get this—he even gives us a little teaser about what they’re unveiling at SHOT Show 2025. If you’re a gear junkie or just curious about bipods, you’ll definitely want to check out Spartan’s free resources on their website and their new educational videos on YouTube. So, sit back, relax, and let’s get into it. Please join me in welcoming Rob Gearing of Spartan Precision Equipment to the podcast!
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TFB Behind the Gun #141: Cold War Guns & Competition w/ Matt & Dan
11/21/2024
TFB Behind the Gun #141: Cold War Guns & Competition w/ Matt & Dan
The Proving Grounds isn’t just another 2-gun competition; it’s a proving ground in every sense of the word. Hosted at The Sawmill Training Complex in South Carolina, this event pushes competitors to their limits, combining technical shooting stages with physical challenges that make you earn every single shot on target. Think of it as part tactical trial, part personal crucible, and all-around gritty fun with a healthy and encouraging competition environment to boot. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a new shooter with something to prove, The Proving Grounds is where skills get sharpened and legends get made and our guests Matt and Dan want you to be there with them. What’s cool about this competition is how it embraces virtually any type of pistol-rifle combo you can think of. For instance, Matt and Dan thought future competitions could lean into Cold War vibes. If you’re a fan of iconic films like Red Dawn or GoldenEye, you already know that these firearms aren’t just cool movie props; they’re cultural artifacts from a time when geopolitical tension oozed into pop culture and transformed everyday gear into legendary symbols. The talk of a possible Cold War theme down the road got us all waxing poetic about the guns that hooked us on the hobby in the first place. If you’re the kind of person who dreams about running an East German MPi-KM or a classic FAL while pretending you’re in some secret desert firefight from the 1980s, The Proving Grounds is your playground, and Matt and Dan are here to guide you through it with some of their favorite Cold War era firearms. Sponsors of The Proving Grounds:
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TFB Behind the Gun #140: The Growing "Community" w/ Competitive Shooter Wade Reed
11/14/2024
TFB Behind the Gun #140: The Growing "Community" w/ Competitive Shooter Wade Reed
In episode 140 of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we've brought back competitive shooter Wade Reed to discuss the expanding firearms community specifically in the realm of competitive shooting. In addition to that, we'll also go over Wade's more recent contributions to the firearms industry including some new rimfire ammo, as well as some new variants of his extremely cool Mark IV Carbine - a lightweight upper that converts any Mark IV lower into a quick and nimble carbine for steel challenge shooting. We'll also talk a bit about topics such as the increasing popularity of competitive shooting, the benefits of more involvement from inexperienced shooters, and the role of social media, the youth, and public perception in connecting enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Reed shares insights into how newcomers can engage with the community and the positive impact of such participation based on experiences in his own life being a competitive shooter, as well as a father to young children. This episode is a doozy so buckle up and please give a warm welcome to Competitive Shooter Wade Reed.
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TFB Behind the Gun #139: The Proving Grounds with Matt & Dan
11/07/2024
TFB Behind the Gun #139: The Proving Grounds with Matt & Dan
In today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're bringing on Matt and Dan of The Proving Grounds to discuss what makes their competition special. The Proving Grounds is an athletically focused two-gun match that incorporates elements of 3-gun style target engagement and movement, along with some more athletic firearms competitions like The Tactical Games. Set to take place in two weeks, The Proving Grounds typically is held in the South Carolina Region, specifically at The Sawmill Complex and the Clinton House where competitors are allowed to shoot virtually any caliber of firearm they're comfortable with, and get a chance to engage targets beyond the confines of a pistol bay for that extra added challenge. Today Dan and Matt will share what they love about shooting how they got involved with The Proving Grounds, and why they think you should participate. Please give a warm welcome to Dan & Matt of The Proving Grounds. Sponsors of The Proving Grounds:
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TFB Behind the Gun #138: An Interview With Joe from Desk Pop
10/24/2024
TFB Behind the Gun #138: An Interview With Joe from Desk Pop
Today on the podcast I've brought on fellow gun enthusiast and YouTube Joe from the channel Desk Pop to talk shop about some recent struggles we've both noticed in the YouTube gun creator space, as well as some of our most recent projects and favorite firearms. Joe is in the midst of somewhat of a rebranding right now as he, like other people who produce firearms content on YouTube, has seen a significant decline in the revenue generated by each video, as well as a general lack of support from companies who typically benefit from the creator/manufactuer relationship. While YouTube may be pretty harsh when it comes to their demonization and throttling of YouTube videos related to firearms, Joe is determined to press on anyway he can which is why he's happy to announce his new YouTube venture "UpShots" which aims to not only provide a new creative outlet for Joe, but also help fund his primary focus on Desk Pop. "We are so back baby, REAL hardcore testing, making content entertaining and not taking ourselves too serious while seriously treating serious operator gear (seriously). Hit the subscribe button and strap in."
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TFB Behind the Gun #137: Modern Military Movie Guns w/ Darwin
10/17/2024
TFB Behind the Gun #137: Modern Military Movie Guns w/ Darwin
Hello and welcome back to another episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast! This week I'm back in the studio again with TFB Writer and film aficionado Darwin to talk about some of our favorite Modern Military Movie Guns. Most gun guys enjoy debating, nerding out, and arguing with one another about all sorts of firearms found in movies ranging from Sci-Fi, Westerns, Dramas, Thrillers, and of course military movies. Today Darwin and I thought it might be fun to blindly discuss some of our favorite modern military movie guns and sometimes how they might have turned out to be cooler in the movies than they are in real life or vice versa. We also take some time to talk about some of these firearms and how they've helped influence some of our own shooting habits, and sometimes even the whole firearms industry as a whole. Please let us know what your favorite modern military movie guns are and give Darwin a warm welcome back to the show!
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TFB Behind The Gun #136: Handy Disaster Guns w/ Cameraon & Sam
10/10/2024
TFB Behind The Gun #136: Handy Disaster Guns w/ Cameraon & Sam
This episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast is going to be focused on firearms you might want to have handy in case of a natural disaster. While the answer for this is going to be different for virtually everyone depending on where they live, the type of disaster is also what matters. Hurricaine Helene has put much of the southeastern United States in a state of emergency and while it seems that local communities are being quite altruistic and helpful to their neighbors, we all know from previous natural disasters just how tragic things can get. Natural Disasters can quickly become even deadlier due to lack of power, food, medical supplies, or civil unrest spurred on by the disaster itself. Today I've brought on TFB writers Cameron and Sam to talk about the guns that they think of first as being handy for natural disasters in their area. We'd love to hear from you and what you typically prioritize for firearms when it comes to natural disasters or other state-wide emergencies in your area. Let us know what you think in the comments!
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TFB Behind the Gun #135: TriggrCon 2024 Wrap-Up with Dave Timm
10/03/2024
TFB Behind the Gun #135: TriggrCon 2024 Wrap-Up with Dave Timm
We're back from TriggrCon 2024 and today we'll be hearing from one of the organizers of the event, Mr. Dave Timm. Dave has been in the firearms industry for a long time having worked, written, and produced content for a lot of companies in the past including Ranier Arms which hosts the TriggrCon even every year. Today Dave and I are going to go over 2024's TriggrCon expo and range day and also give you guys our thoughts on this year's Golden Trigger recipients. We'll also take some time to talk about Dave and what he's got planned for himself down the road in terms of videos and articles he'll be producing under his own brand - Learning Firearms. Dave is a retired Law Enforcement officer, competitive shooter, and all around gun nerd that I'm happy to have on the podcast. Please give Dave Tim of Learning Firearms a warm welcome to the show! Where You Can Find Dave:
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TFB Behind the gun #134: Pondering the XM7 and the 6.8x51mm with Darwin
09/26/2024
TFB Behind the gun #134: Pondering the XM7 and the 6.8x51mm with Darwin
In today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're bringing back TFB Writer Darwin to talk about the new SIG MCX-SPEAR otherwise known by its military designation - the XM7. The XM7 is the result of the NGSW program and I've recently had the opportunity to start digging into one of their Civilian versions of the rifle chambered in the new 6.8x51mm hybrid cased ammunition. Darwin is quite a fan of not only SIG's new rifle but also battle rifles in general. Today he and I will discuss some of the history of the XM7, and talk in depth about the new 6.8x51mm cartridge and some of the potential it might have even outside of combat. Please welcome back TFB Writer Darwin to the Show!
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TFB Behind the Gun #133: Soft Goods FAQ with Kurt from Blue Alpha Belts
09/19/2024
TFB Behind the Gun #133: Soft Goods FAQ with Kurt from Blue Alpha Belts
Today I'm honored to have Kurt of Blue Alphaon the TFB Behind the Gun Podcast. Longtime TFB fans will no doubt know that we're sponsored by Blue Alpha Belts. Back in 2016 when TFBTV itself was just getting established, Kurt and his business partner Jesse, both aircraft mechanics, decided to start Blue Alpha belts to fund their range sessions. Fast forward just a couple of years and Blue Alpha Belts has expanded from just a garage operation to a business that supports many great American employees and provides range and tactical gear for all sorts of Americans - especially just us guys who want to have some fun on the range with our favorite guns. Today Kurt and I will discuss Blue Alpha's humble origins, their primary goal with starting the business, and of course, all of the intricacies that we don't often see from this side of the firearms industry to g ain a better appreciation for what Kurt and his team go through while having fun along the way. Please welcome Kurt of Blue Alpha belts to the show!
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