The Gun Experiment

"You have a right to defend yourself—know the legal landscape and prepare for the unexpected."Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Gun Experiment, we sit down with Peter Tilem, Second Amendment attorney, founder of Tilem & Associates, and creator of New York Tac Defense. We chop it up over personal stories from the range, what to do (and what not to do) if you’re carrying during a traffic stop, and get deep into the legal maze that’s gun ownership in New York and New Jersey. We also unpack recent political shake-ups, like Mamdani’s impact on gun rights in NYC, and debate the “stand your ground” laws sweeping the nation. Plus, we test some top cold weather hunting gear and end on a high note with an epic Air Force One flyover. If you care about concealed carry rights, self-defense, and staying sharp as a responsible gun owner, this one’s for you.Call to Action1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!5. Grab some cool TGE merch6. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.Show SponsorsSwig: No-nonsense health supplements to fuel your range days—TGE20 for 20% off.Spartan Armor Systems: American-made body armor for citizens and first responders—watch for Black Friday deals!Onsite Firearms Training: Classes for every skill level—real skills for real confidence.Key TakeawaysGun laws are constantly changing in NY/NJ; even attorneys like Peter Tilem send “red alerts” to clients to keep up.There is no duty to inform in New York State during a traffic stop, but 12+ states—including Texas and New Jersey—require it (and breaking that law can land you with a felony).New York Tac Defense is a legal, ethical way for gun owners to get prepaid legal coverage for self-defense, even when “Second Amendment insurance” is banned.Stand your ground laws are both misunderstood and politicized; remember it’s about your reasonable belief and innocence until proven guilty.The new political landscape in NYC (think: Mamdani) means longer delays and more obstacles for law-abiding gun owners.Practical gear matters—Nomad Outdoor’s cold-weather hunting wear passed our test for warmth, function, and feature-rich details.Guest InformationPeter TilemSecond Amendment attorney, Tilem & AssociatesCreator of New York Tac DefensePrepaid legal plans for lawful self-defense incidents: New York Tac DefenseAdvocate for responsible, informed gun ownership in NY and beyondKeywordsSecond Amendment attorney, New York gun laws, New York Tac Defense, concealed carry, duty to inform, stand your ground, self-defense law, legal protection for gun owners, handgun permit NY, firearm lawyer NY, Mamdani NYC, gun rights NYC, lawful self-defense, Spartan Armor Systems, Swig supplements, On-Site Firearms Training, Nomad Outdoor gear, best cold weather hunting jackets, concealed carry insurance alternative, NY CCIA, gun experiment podcast, Peter Tilem interview

"Being prepared is about continual growth, self-reliance, and consistently expanding your knowledge across all facets of life."Episode SummaryIn this week's episode of The Gun Experiment, we welcome Scott Howell, host of the Iron Sights Podcast, for an in-depth conversation that bridges the worlds of firearms, fitness, and personal preparedness. Scott shares his journey from gym owner in San Jose, CA to a thought leader in both health and Second Amendment spaces. We cover everything from the challenges of operating a gym during COVID shutdowns to building resilience and skill through tactical training. Scott also dives into the parallels between fitness and firearms training, the importance of community, and why the responsibility of being a gun owner goes far beyond the range.Whether you're a tactical athlete, law enforcement, or just starting to embrace self-improvement, Scott’s insights deliver real value—especially if you're working to combine physical well-being with being ready for anything life throws your way.Call to Action1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!5. Grab some cool TGE merch6. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.Show SponsorsSpartan Armor SystemsFor reliable armor made in the USA and gear designed for real-world situations, check out SpartanArmorSystems.com and get battle ready today.Key TakeawaysScott’s background as a gym owner gave him firsthand experience with shutdowns, resilience, and the crossover of mental and physical preparedness.The surge in gun sales and training post-2020 created bigger demand—and confusion—for quality firearms instruction.Fitness and firearms training share common pitfalls and strengths: beware of misinformation, tribalism, and dogmatic thinking.Building a healthy, prepared lifestyle isn’t about perfection; it’s about incremental growth, honest self-assessment, and seeking mentorship.Physical strength, stability, and endurance are foundational for being an effective shooter and resilient individual—prioritize strength training for longevity.Preparedness goes beyond gear—know your local laws, situational awareness, and get medical training alongside firearms skills.Podcasting has been a powerful tool for building community, sharing knowledge, and establishing relationships in both fitness and self-defense spaces.The gun culture in California (and elsewhere) is resilient, innovative, and driven by dedicated individuals despite tough regulations.Guest InformationScott HowellHost of Iron Sights PodcastOwner of Red Dot Fitness in San Jose, CACreator of Fit For Action online training programFitness and preparedness expert offering coaching for tactical athletes, civilians, and law enforcementConnect with Scott on Instagram: @ironsightspodcast and @red_dot_fitnessKeywordsGun Experiment podcast, Scott Howell, Iron Sights Podcast, tactical fitness, firearms training, Second Amendment, self-reliance, physical preparedness, Spartan Armor Systems, fitness and shooting, law enforcement wellness, COVID shutdown small business, gun culture California, preparedness mindset, training process, health and fitness, online fitness coaching, Fit For Action program, podcast community, self-improvement, personal development, strength training advantages, responsible gun ownership, gun laws, resilience strategiesReady to level up your readiness and well-being? Tap into the conversation and let us help you grow—on and off the range!

"There’s value in self-sufficiency and the liberty to live as you choose"Episode SummaryIn this episode, Mike and Big Keith team up for a classic solo roundtable, catching up on Keith’s hunting trip, swapping gear reviews, and diving deep into what responsible gun ownership looks like today. We get honest about New York’s latest gun laws, talk open carry from both tactical and freedom perspectives, dream about escaping restrictive states, and get real about fears—whether it’s government overreach or losing your favorite snacks. From AI gun detection fails to the latest in 2A legislation, it’s an episode full of candid takes, laughs, and practical information for gun owners, hunters, and anyone embracing dangerous freedom.Call to Action1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!5. Grab some cool TGE merch6. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.Show SponsorsAmmo Squared: The “401k for ammo”—set it, forget it, and build your stockpile with automatic purchases, secure storage, and easy shipping triggers. Check them out at ammosquared.com and use The Gun Experiment as your referral.Key TakeawaysHunting trips are better with good company and quality gear—Nomad’s camo bibs and layering strategy worked for Big KeithOpen carry is more than a legal question—it’s about tactical readiness and genuine responsibility.Ammo Squared works like forced savings, helping you stock up on the calibers you actually shoot, without the hassle.Magazine bans are starting to collapse nationally (at least in D.C.), setting hopeful precedent for other states.AI still struggles (hilariously) with Doritos and guns—emerging tech brings both safety and privacy concerns.Canadian gun ownership is under threat—even bolt-action rifles and shotguns aren’t safe.Escaping to a freer state means weighing 2A rights, taxes, four seasons, land options, and local politics.Sometimes, it’s the simple things—don’t take travel snacks, baby wipes, or mountain views for granted.Guest InformationThis was a true solo episode—no outside guest, but a shout-out to Chris Blau, who missed the show due to illness and will be joining us in a future segment.KeywordsGun experiment podcast, hunting trip, New York gun laws, open carry debate, Ammo Squared review, Nomad Outdoors, magazine bans, gun legislation, gun confiscation, Canadian gun buybacks, 2A rights, best states for gun owners, zombie apocalypse states, travel snacks, AI gun detection, gun gear review, personal freedom, podcast for gun owners, firearms news, dangerous freedom, Second Amendment, responsible gun ownership

"The power of a crowd lies not just in its size, but in the perceptions it shapes."Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Gun Experiment, we sit down with Adam Swart, CEO of Crowds on Demand, for an eye-opening conversation about crowds, political demonstrations, free speech, and gun rights. Adam pulls back the curtain on his business, which specializes in orchestrating paid crowds and events for everything from political rallies to guerilla marketing stunts. We dive deep into the ethical challenges of paid protests, the influence of media, the dynamics of social movements, and the complex intersection of money, activism, and public perception.Along the way, Adam gets candid about evolving his company’s approach, shares insights into how paid demonstrations may impact the Second Amendment narrative, and discusses the dangers of social media-fueled division in our country. We also touch on current events like campus protests, political polarization, and the responsibilities of both media and citizens when it comes to validating what we see. As always, Keith and I ask the tough questions and explore the gray areas around activism, ethics, and personal responsibility.Call to Action1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!5. Grab some cool TGE merch6. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They' re an integral in making the show possible.Show SponsorsBig thank you to our sponsors:Second Amendment Foundation: Defending your constitutional rights for over 50 years. Become a member today at saf.org.Onsight Firearms Training: Serious about your firearms training? Head to oftllc.us to find courses and level up your skills.Key TakeawaysCrowds and paid demonstrations have a huge impact on public perception, media coverage, and the effectiveness of political campaigns.The ethical considerations of orchestrating paid protests are complex—Adam shares how his views have evolved and how he prioritizes de-escalation and common sense.Most large movements in history combine genuine passion and strategic funding; they're rarely purely grassroots or entirely "manufactured."Financial anonymity in activism is often about protecting donors from cancel culture, but it can get abused, especially by bad actors or foreign interests.The relationship between media, activism, and public manipulation is more nuanced than most people think; always approach what you see—especially protests—like an advertisement.Social media and the 24-hour news cycle have amplified polarization and extremism, making it harder for the “silent majority” to get heard.Adam reveals his journey from a liberal campaign organizer to an independent, pro-Second Amendment and free speech advocate.Validation and critical thinking are essential—don’t take any public demonstration at face value, and always ask: “Is someone trying to persuade me or just create noise?”Guest InformationAdam SwartCEO, Crowds on DemandWebsite: CrowdsOnDemand.comTwitter/X: @CEOAdamSwartAdam is the founder and CEO of Crowds on Demand, the pioneering publicity firm that provides paid crowds, orchestrated demonstrations, and out-of-the-box PR events for political, corporate, and private clients nationwide. With a background in political campaigns and media strategy, Adam offers firsthand knowledge of the intersection between activism, PR, and the modern media landscape.KeywordsCrowds on Demand, Paid political demonstrations, Adam Swart interview, Second Amendment rights, Gun rights activism, Political protests, Media manipulation, Freedom of speech, Cancel culture, Social media polarization, Guerilla marketing, Ethics of paid protests, Public perception, Grassroots campaigning, OFT firearms training, Second Amendment Foundation, Gun Experiment Podcast, Podcast about guns, Political influence, Parkland protest, NYU Palestine protest, Protest funding, Free speech advocateLet us know what you think about the episode, and join the discussion with us on Instagram, Twitter, Discord, or Spotify!

"Just because you can, doesn’t always mean you should."Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Gun Experiment, we’re chopping it up in Studio with our good friend and firearms instructor, Sean Martin, aka Pink Shirt Tactical. Big Keith and I dive into gun news, hot takes, and personal stories about hunting, fitness, current political drama, and of course, plenty of Second Amendment talk. We touch on recent matches like the Hero Down Shootout, discuss firearm law updates (like Hawaii’s Vampire Rule and the P320 issue in Chicago), and share some hilarious community stories—from kid obsessions with town councilmen to belt buckles for F-150 key fobs. We debate open carry “auditors,” government accountability, and even take a swipe at media soundbites. This episode’s a mix of laughs, strong opinions, and actionable insights for anyone who carries or is passionate about gun rights and personal responsibility.Call to Action1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!5. Grab some cool TGE merch6. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.Show SponsorsSwig – Protein, Creatine and meal replacement made in America by pro-2A owners. For 20% off, head to swig.com and enter code TGE20 at checkout.Key TakeawaysStaying fit and healthy is just as important as responsible gun ownership.The firearms community needs to use good judgment—just because open-carry activism is legal doesn’t mean it’s always smart.Court decisions (like Hawaii’s Vampire Rule and the P320 recall in Chicago) are reshaping our rights—stay informed.Community involvement, whether with local elections or supporting pro-2A organizations, makes a difference.Don’t trust everything mainstream media says—question, verify, and use your own judgment.Fun and function can go together—even if you’re rocking a belt buckle for your F-150 keys.Guest InformationSean Martin (aka Pink Shirt Tactical)Firearms instructor, competitor, and regular contributor to The Gun Experiment. Connect with him on Instagram.Keywordsgun rights podcast, Second Amendment, firearms news, open carry debate, P320 recall, gun laws Hawaii, Hero Down Shootout, gun fitness, Swig protein, political accountability, Letitia James mortgage fraud, gun training, self-defense, Pink Shirt Tactical, gun community, concealed carry, press check segment, back again hot takes, veteran shooting charity, US court gun casesThanks for listening, and remember—your Second Amendment rights are stronger when you get involved.

"Embrace the experience—whether you hunt for the harvest or the camaraderie, time in the outdoors is always well spent."Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Gun Experiment, we sit down with Mike Tussey, Director of Marketing for Nomad Outdoors and owner of Osceola Outdoors, to talk all things hunting, gear, and Whitetail season readiness. We kick off with some listener feedback on the Cracker Barrel and then dive into the a controversial turkey hunting incident that went viral. Mike Tussey takes us through his journey from longtime educator to prominent figure in the outdoor industry, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from guiding everything from turkey hunts to alligator adventures. We unpack new product launches from Nomad, their evolving brand story, and get expert tips on choosing the right hunting apparel for all seasons. From the importance of camaraderie at hunt camp to the rituals that get us amped for deer season, this episode is packed with laughs, practical advice, and plenty of inspiration for both seasoned hunters and newcomers.Call to Action1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify3. Follow us on all of our social media: InstagramTwitterYoutubeFacebook4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!5. Grab some cool TGE merch6. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.Show SponsorsA huge thank you to Onsite Firearms Training for supporting the show. If you're looking to sharpen your skills—pistol, rifle, or medical—find a class near you at oftllc.us. They offer no-ego, professional training for everyday shooters. Get safer, sharper, and smarter behind the gun!Key TakeawaysThe difference between someone who hunts and a true hunter comes down to passion, patience, and the love of nature—not just the harvest.Nomad Outdoors is revamping classic hunting gear with modern fabrics and patterns for every season, including their new Rub Line Collection and exclusive Mossy Oak New Breakup camo.Trail cameras and gear organization rituals help us gear up mentally and physically for hunting season.The importance of introducing young hunters to the tradition—and how quality gear can help get them hooked.Stories from the field, like guiding Don Jr. on a turkey hunt and dealing with unexpected “adventures” from clients, remind us that hunting is as much about the stories as the trophies.When hunting in changing climates, layering with quality base layers (like merino wool) and the right outerwear is absolutely essential for comfort and success.Mike Tussey’s top gear pick: don’t head into turkey season without a poncho, and never underestimate the power of great base layers in the cold.Guest InformationMike Tussey is the owner of Osceola Outdoors, guiding hunts for turkeys, hogs, ducks, and gators in Florida, and is the Director of Marketing for Nomad Outdoors.Website: Nomad OutdoorsSocial: @nomadoutdoor (Instagram & Facebook)Osceola Outdoors: osceolaoutdoors.comKeywordsHunting apparel, Nomad Outdoors, Mike Tussey, Osceola Outdoors, hunting gear, Whitetail season, turkey hunting, Mossy Oak, Rub Line Collection, hunting tips, outdoor industry, Onsite Firearms Training, base layers, camouflage, deer hunting rituals, trail cameras, hunting stories, youth hunting, marketing director, gun safety, Cracker Barrel pancakes, hunting camaraderie, outdoor podcast, run and gun segment, gun experiment podcast.Ready to gear up for the season or just want a few hunting laughs? Tune in and join us on The Gun Experiment!

“Responsible gun ownership, community engagement, and responsible leadership build stronger, safer communities.”Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Gun Experiment, we, sit down with our local town councilman and longtime friend, Paul Ruggerio. We kick things off with an open conversation about local politics, community development, and the impact of gun legislation in New York.Paul pulls back the curtain on what it’s really like running for office during an election cycle, the nitty-gritty of zoning laws, the challenges of keeping small-town Main Street USA alive, and how warehouses affect property taxes and local economics. We discuss community participation in government, how to address local issues, and the role of responsible firearm ownership in our town.The discussion takes a candid turn into the Second Amendment, where Paul shares both his personal history as a gun owner and his stance on New York’s evolving firearms laws. We also touch on the latest gun news, like open carry legislation in Florida, the surprising move by Everytown to teach gun safety, and recent victories for gun rights in Texas post offices.As always, we sprinkle in some light-hearted moments, talk about technology and aftermarket car mods, and round out the show with hot takes on current political debates, government budgets, and the wild world of military drones.Call to Action1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify3. Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Twitter Youtube Facebook4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!5. Grab some cool TGE merch6. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.Show SponsorsOnsite Firearms Training (OFT): For skill-building classes that boost your confidence, head to OFTLLC.usAmmo Squared: The hassle-free way to consistently build your ammo supply—sign up at ammosquared.com and mention The Gun Experiment for bonus rounds!Key TakeawaysCommunity Engagement Matters: Local government is about serving citizens—reach out directly to your council members to get things done in your town.Zoning Laws Shape Your Town: Decisions made years ago impact what kinds of businesses (or warehouses) can operate locally; changing that takes time and citizen involvement.Responsible Gun Ownership: Training and education are universal values—good training boosts confidence for all gun owners.Second Amendment Rights: Even local politicians face challenges in changing state laws, but supporting candidates who respect your rights is crucial.Economic Development: Bringing Main Street USA energy back requires vision, creativity, and sometimes redefining what downtown means for your community.Gun Rights News: Wins like the Texas post office gun-carry case and the open carry bill in Florida show positive momentum.Staying Informed: Whether it’s politics, tech, or local events, staying engaged and informed helps you advocate for what matters most to you.Guest InformationPaul RuggerioTown Councilman, Town of Newburgh, NYLocal business owner for 35 yearsFiscally responsible leader with a proven track recordDedicated to serving the community, improving town infrastructure, and protecting residents’ interestsKeywordsgun rights, Second Amendment, Paul Ruggierio, Newburgh politics, local government, firearm training, community development, New York gun laws, open carry, warehouse zoning, property taxes, Ammo Squared, Onsite Firearms Training, Second Amendment Foundation, Main Street USA, town council, concealed carry, gun news, Everytown, post office gun case, New York infrastructure, responsible gun ownership, small town economicsLet us know what you think of this episode and who you want to hear next!

"Passion is the engine behind achievement."Episode SummaryIn this episode, we reconnect with Tom Kubiniec, CEO of SecureIt, for an engaging conversation that spans gun safety, the realities of modern gun ownership, responsible storage, and Tom’s thrilling adventures at the Bonneville Salt Flats. We tackle the intersection of pharmaceuticals and mass shootings, gun politics, and how Tom’s unique approaches to business and fatherhood shape the SecureIt brand. We also go hands-on with the SecureIt Fast Box 20 Pro, explore the concept of decentralized firearm storage, and discuss tips for teaching kids about firearm safety at home. Lastly, we break down current firearm legislation news, high-speed drone threats, and other headlines from the shooting world.Call to Action1. Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com2. Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify3. Follow us on all of our social media: InstagramTwitterYoutubeFacebook4. Be a part of our growing community, join our Discord page!5. Grab some cool TGE merch6. Ask us anything at AskMikeandKeith@gmail.com5. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They're the ones who make the show possible.Show SponsorsMGS Trade School: Break into the firearms industry as a gunsmith —learn at your pace and change your career with MGS.Ammo Squared: Your digital ammo bank! Set your monthly budget, select calibers, and let Ammo Squared grow your supply. Mention you heard about them on The Gun Experiment!Key TakeawaysResponsible Gun Storage: Tom emphasizes decentralizing storage, silent locks, and ease of access for daily carry—but always secured from unauthorized hands.Family Firearm Safety: Demystifying guns for children is key—education and transparency reduce curiosity, making firearms less attractive to young hands.The Bonneville Salt Flats: Tom and his son set a world speed record for 750cc cars and share a unique father-son bonding experience, highlighting chasing passion together.Medication & Mass Shootings: Tom discusses his research on mass shootings, connecting SSRIs and psychotropic drugs with youth shooters—a controversial but rarely discussed link.Industry Innovation: Products like the Fast Box 20 Pro and Ammo Squared revolutionize how we store and accumulate ammunition, shifting attitudes toward long-term preparedness.Legislative Updates: We break down current legal challenges to the AR-15 and NFA regulations, and cover DOJ and Supreme Court actions on major firearm regulation cases.Gun Dealer Ethics: Store owners play a vital but limited role in preventing gun crimes—they must balance caution, intuition, and the realities of legal gun sales.Guest InformationTom KubiniecCEO, SecureIt Gun StorageRacing enthusiast, innovator, and firearms industry leaderAdvocate for responsible gun storage and educationLearn more: secureitgunstorage.comKeywordsGun safety, Firearm storage, SecureIt gun safes, Decentralized firearm security, Bonneville Salt Flats racing, Family gun education, Mass shooting medication connection,Gun legislation updates, Ammo Squared review, MGS Trade School, Firearms industry career, Responsible gun ownership, AR-15 ban, DOJ firearm policy, Child gun safety, Ethical gun dealers, Fast Box 20 Pro review, Home defense storage, Gun experiment podcast