The Gun Experiment

"Stay tolerant and encourage real discourse, even when the world seems divided."Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Gun Experiment, Big Keith and I are joined by Matt Riker, CEO of Kings River Custom, for a raw, wide-ranging discussion on unity, division, and the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk right before the anniversary of 9/11. We don’t shy away from the tough feelings, the media’s role in fueling division, and the hard questions about political extremism, violence, and what unites (and divides) America.We also dive into other topics to bring levity and balance—touching on recent positive 2A news out of Florida, wild stories about electric cars, military tech like the Navy’s Phalanx system, and a couple of wild news headlines that’ll make you laugh. There’s never a dull moment when Matt joins us, and we hope you’ll join the conversation.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 SponsorsModern Gun Trade School: Your pathway to a professional career in the firearms industry. Let them know you heard about them on The Gun Experiment.Flatline Fiberco: Creator of amazing soft goods for the shooting community. Be sure to check out their new Qela sling; get 10% off your purchase with code TGE10Key TakeawaysThe episode is framed by national tragedy and reflection on unity the day after Charlie Kirk’s assassination and September 11thMatt Riker shares his perspective on Charlie Kirk’s respectful, impactful manner in the current political climateWe debate how the media, social media, and political echo chambers shape division and misunderstanding in AmericaThe difference in public response to violence against public figures, and how partisan reactions differThe importance of personal responsibility, training, and education in the firearms community (including lockbox discussion)Positive news: Florida’s 2A tax holiday shows there’s good going on for gun rights, tooOther lighter topics covered include: MMA in the workplace, the absurdity of electric car “loud exhaust” tickets, Navy battle tech upgrades, and crazy news stories about hiking mishaps and custom-made babiesGuest InformationMatt Riker – CEO, Kings River CustomMatt brings expert knowledge on custom 1911s, powerful opinions on current events, and personal reflections on how influential figures change lives. He’s a regular guest and friend of the show, known for his down-to-earth wisdom and insights from both the firearms industry and real life.Learn more at KingsRiverCustom.comKeywordsThe Gun Experiment, Matt Riker, Kings River Custom, custom 1911s, Charlie Kirk, assassination, September 11th, media bias, political violence, unity, division in America, gun rights, 2nd Amendment, Florida 2A tax holiday, positive gun news, MMA in the workplace, military technology, Navy Phalanx, electric cars, social media influence, firearms safety, American politics, Turning Point, personal responsibility, current events, stoicism, political discourse, gun podcast, conservative podcastThanks for chopping it up with us this week. If this episode sparked a thought, tell us your take—let’s keep this conversation going.

"Every journey into the firearms space is fueled by passion, persistence, and a relentless commitment to quality—no shortcuts."Episode SummaryIn this episode, Big Keith and I sit down in the studio with Mitch Eckler, the mastermind behind Hangfire TV and a prolific contributor to Athlon Outdoors. We get into the nitty gritty of content creation in the firearms world, tackling everything from overcoming social media algorithm hurdles to the impact of AI on writing and photography, and why building a genuine voice matters more than ever. Mitch shares his journey from music to guns, his take on revolvers and 1911s, and the realities of trying to make it behind enemy lines here in New York. We also dive into advocacy, staying motivated despite challenges, and tips for anyone wanting to get involved in the 2A community.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 SponsorsModern Gun Trade School: Turn your passion for firearms into a career with hands-on, at-your-own-pace online gunsmithing courses. Visit mgs.edu or call 1-800-493-4114—tell them The Gun Experiment sent you!Spartan Armor Systems: Stay ready and protected with premier, made-in-the-USA body armor. Visit spartanarmorsystems.com for civilian and professional defensive gear.Key TakeawaysPersistence and authenticity are key to success in firearms content creation.Building a portfolio (even starting a YouTube channel) can open doors in the industry.AI and large language models (LLMs) are here to stay; use them to bolster your writing, but don’t lose your unique voice.Social media platforms can be tough for gun content—follow the rules, create original photos, and stay “middle of the road.”New York gun owners face unique challenges, but local and national organizations work behind the scenes to protect 2A rights. Donating to any is better than none!The importance of supporting local gun shops and continuing your firearms education.Authenticity in content—whether written, photographed, or filmed—will always stand out, no matter how advanced technology becomes.Getting started is about doing the hard work first and being willing to take risks and show up, even when it’s tough.Guest InformationMitch EcklerHost & Creator of Hangfire TV (YouTube)Contributing author at Athlon Outdoors (Read Mitch's work here)Instagram: @thebadgunsmithFocus: Real-world firearms education, product reviews, and 2A advocacyKeywords firearms podcast, gun industry, 2A content creator, gun rights advocacy, Mitch Eckler, Hangfire TV, Athlon Outdoors, SUNY Oneonta, AI in writing, gun marketing, YouTube firearms content, gun community New York, Second Amendment, concealed carry tips, social media gun censorship, Spartan Armor, Modern Gun Trade School, firearms training, gun merch, best revolvers, New York gun laws, content creation tips, firearm photography, writing with AIFor more, be sure to check the links in our show notes or connect with us across social media! Thanks for tuning in to The Gun Experiment!

“Medical training may not be as sexy as buying a new gun, but saving a life makes you a true hero.”Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Gun Experiment, we “chop it up” with Kerry “Pocket Doc” Davis, former Air Force flight medic and owner of Dark Angel Medical. Mike and Big Keith dive into the vital importance of medical training within the 2A and preparedness community, sharing real stories of why it should matter just as much as those new firearm purchases. We touch on practical training advice, everyday carry kit suggestions, balancing firearms and medical skills, and even squeeze in lighthearted fun—from the best way to drink a Manhattan to a bear with a serious strawberry ice cream craving. Plus, we break down current news: big Second Amendment wins, ongoing sins in the regulatory world, and a viral resignation letter trend that will have you asking, “What would I temporarily quit my husbandly duties for?”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 SponsorsSwig.com: Delicious, well-balanced meal replacements and nutritional products. Get 20% off your order with code TGE20.Modern Gun Trade School: Your pathway to a professional career in the firearms industry. Let them know you heard about them on The Gun Experiment.Key TakeawaysMedical training is just as important as firearms training—being able to save a life could make you the real hero in any emergency.Shooting skills, like medical skills, are perishable—refresh and retrain often.Good kit habits: Carry an IFAC in your car, on your belt, and at home (right next to your fire extinguisher!).Online training options and free resources can make life-saving knowledge more accessible than ever.Trends in the gun world and weird news (butt sniffers, anyone?) keep us on our toes and laughing.Second Amendment updates: Major progress for medical marijuana users’ gun rights and positive shifts in certain city firearm regulations.Don’t let media hype direct your outrage—save your energy for the fights that really matter.Guest InformationKerry “Pocket Doc” DavisFormer US Air Force flight medicOwner/founder of Dark Angel MedicalExpert in trauma care, emergency medicine, and citizen self-relianceFind classes, kits, and free med resources at DarkAngelMedical.comKeywordsKerry Davis, Dark Angel Medical, The Gun Experiment, medical training, trauma kit, IFAC, 2A community, emergency preparedness, concealed carry, gun rights, firearms training, Second Amendment, modern gun trade school, Swig nutrition, online medical training, law enforcement, concealed carry laws, NYPD, ATF, ghost guns, gun news, medical marijuana gun rights, personal safety, podcast show notes, episode summary, self-defense, husband resignation letter, Manhattan cocktail, preparedness skillsWhether you’re in it for the laughs, the learning, or life-saving info, thanks for tuning in—stay safe, stay sharp, and carry medical!

"When you are struggling to take action, break big goals into small, actionable steps.Persistence isn’t about giant leaps, but about steady, continual progress—however small."Episode SummaryIn this episode, Big Keith and I welcomed Conor Donahue, a former Navy SEAL and CEO/co-founder of Ace Virtual Shooting, to The Gun Experiment. We dove into Conor’s transition from military service to the tech-entrepreneurial world, exploring how his experiences shaped both his character and the innovative product he's helping bring to the firearm training community. Conor shared personal insights into the importance of mentorship, faith, adaptability, teamwork, and the drive behind Ace XR’s industry-leading virtual reality shooting simulator.We discussed the benefits and practicalities of virtual gun training, the challenges (and surprising fun) of dry fire practice, and how community and technology are reshaping the shooting sports landscape. Plus, Conor joined us for a live review and behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing innovation happening at Ace Virtual Shooting—and yes, we also put him through our Run and Gun lightning round.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 a big part of making the show possible.Show SponsorsSpecial thanks to OnSite Firearms Training—our longest-standing sponsor. They bring world-class firearms instruction in a safe, challenging environment, with incredible guest instructors like Jared Reston. Whether you're new or seeking to perfect your skills, check them out!Shout-out to Ace Virtual Shooting for providing us with cutting-edge gear and an immersive, fun, and skill-building training tool.Key TakeawaysMentorship shapes our trajectory: Conor credits mentors from Scouting, the military, and his faith community for guiding his career and values.Faith and adversity build character: Hurdles in Conor’s youth and experience in the SEALs forged grit, humility, and perseverance.The transition from service to entrepreneurship isn’t always easy: Identity and purpose beyond the uniform are topics every veteran (and leader) faces.Adaptability and teamwork are as essential in business as in the Teams.Supplement, don’t substitute: Tools like Ace VR are powerful supplements but no replacement for live fire training.Community matters: The Ace XR platform isn’t just a training tool—it’s a supportive, competitive, and fun international community.User feedback drives innovation: Many of Ace's features and updates are directly from user suggestions—your voice is heard, and it shapes the product!Guest InformationConor DonahueFormer United States Navy SEALMBA: Stanford UniversityCofounder & CEO: Ace Virtual ShootingConnect on Instagram: @acevirtualshootingJoin their Discord and Facebook groups for community discussion, Q&As, and product updates.KeywordsNavy SEAL, Conor Donahue, Ace Virtual Shooting, Ace XR, VR gun training, shooting simulator, virtual reality firearms training, dry fire practice, shooting community, firearms technology, shooting gear, competitive shooting, gun experiment podcast, gun training tools, firearms entrepreneur, gun safety, shooting innovation, supplemental firearms training, OnSite Firearms Training, shooting simulation, gun range alternative, shooting sports, shooter community, virtual competition, mental toughness, mentorship in military, firearms podcast, firearms industry, 2A communityI hope this episode inspires everyone to train more and helps connect everyone with a new passionate firearms community!

“Protecting Americana means more than just owning American guns—it's about celebrating our history, building community, and being proud of who we are.”Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Gun Experiment, we chop it up with Eli Duckworth, head of marketing at Alchemy Custom Weaponry and a proud 1911 gun owner. We kick off with some laughs about golf, wrestling, and the Hulkster’s passing, dive into laws about losing your guns and the controversy around brandishing, and share thoughts on current events—from presidential fitness tests to Sydney Sweeney's viral ad.Eli gives us the inside scoop on his recent trip to Colt, the legacy of case-hardened steel, and his personal connection to Colt firearms history. We also review some innovative gear like the Magna Lens shooting glasses and the Caldwell Clay Copter, and end on a wild note discussing robotic rabbits and the ethics of using pets to feed zoo animals. The episode is a mix of gun rights, American firearm history, gear reviews, and plenty of humor.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 SponsorsSwiig: Meal replacement shakes made by gun owners for gun owners—use code TG20 for 20% off your order at Swiig.comOn-Site Firearms Training: Get top-notch training from real experts—sign up for upcoming classes and tell them The Gun Experiment sent you!Key TakeawaysThe passing of icons like the Hulkster can remind us how much these figures shape our sense of American identity—and why nostalgia matters.Brandishing laws are a gray area; sometimes just making your firearm visible can de-escalate a situation, but the legal landscape is complicated and often varies by state.The saga of the McCloskeys highlights the red tape and emotional toll that defensive gun owners can face, even after gubernatorial pardons.Colt remains a pillar of Americana and firearms innovation—the company’s tradition of presentation guns and case-hardened steel connects past and present.The Magna Lens shooting glasses bring real innovation to range safety by eliminating the classic “ear pro-glasses pinch.”We debated the role of fitness and competition in schools, why Sydney Sweeney's marketing worked, and how media stirs controversy.Using robotic decoys for hunting and invasive species control is the future—but when it comes to using pets as zoo food, things get morally tricky.Guest InformationEli DuckworthHead of Marketing & Sales at Alchemy Custom WeaponryColt brand ambassadorPassionate historian and 1911 aficionadoKeywordsGun Experiment, Eli Duckworth, Alchemy Custom Weaponry, Colt firearms, American gun history, brandishing laws, McCloskeys, firearm rights, Magna Lens shooting glasses, Swig meal replacement, On-Site Firearms Training, gun gear review, Sydney Sweeney ad, presidential fitness test, animal ethics, clay copter, gun podcast, 2A community, Americana, wrestling nostalgia, podcast show notesLet us know your thoughts or anything you want us to talk about next!

"Buy once, cry once: Investing in quality gear upfront can make all the difference—whether you're prepping for adventure, everyday carry, or an emergency scenario.Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Gun Experiment, we sit down with Kevin Wexler, the international sales rep for Eberlestock—a brand renowned for innovative, modular outdoor gear, tactical backpacks, and high-performance equipment for hunting, preparedness, and shooting sports. We explored Kevin’s journey from Bay Area bookworm to self-described gear nerd and competitive shooter, and took a deep dive into choosing the right loadout for different missions, from EDC and bug-out bags to hunting and precision rifle competitions. We also got the inside scoop on Eberlestock’s modular design philosophy, discussed new releases—including the Fade collection—and shared practical advice for building your ultimate “get home” bag, truck bag, or dad bag.If you’re looking for the best tactical backpack, prepping gear advice, or just want to nerd out on loadout options, this episode is packed with actionable insights.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 an integral part of making the show possible.Show SponsorsSwig: Makers of top-tier nutritional food supplements supporting Second Amendment rights. Fuel your family, fuel your freedom—check out the “Quick Start Eating Clean for Life Kit.” Get 10% off with code TGE10Onsite Firearms Training (OFT): For the best firearms training at an affordable price. Be sure to check out OFT’s upcoming classes.Key TakeawaysQuality Matters: “Buy once, cry once” truly applies—high-quality gear is an investment that pays off in the field and in emergencies.Preparedness Spectrum: There’s a big difference between “normal” and “super prepper”—but even carrying a plate carrier or get-home bag puts you ahead of most.Modularity is King: Eberlestock’s modular systems (like the Fade series and Recon harness) allow you to customize your loadout for hunting, EDC, or tactical scenarios.Bag Selection Tips: Choose your pack based on function—everyday carry, get home, deployment, or “dad bag.” Seasonality and color (civilian vs. tactical look) matter for blending in.Competitive Edge: Kevin’s background in CrossFit, USPSA, tactical games, and sniper competitions influences his input on real-world gear needs.New Releases: Look out for 45+ new Eberlestock products launching through February—these include innovative scabbard and frame designs.Be the Hero: Having the right gear (tools, med kits, spare clothes, etc.) means you’re ready for anything—from outdoor adventures to urban emergencies.Guest InformationKevin WexlerInternational Sales Rep, EberlestockCompetitive shooter (USPSA, tactical games, precision rifle)Instagram: @eberlestockVisit: eberlestock.comEberlestock on YouTubeKeywordsEberlestock, tactical backpack, loadout, preparedness, gear review, bug out bag, get home bag, modular backpack, everyday carry, EDC, survival gear, competition shooting, hunting backpack, precision rifle, tactical games, USPSC, fade collection, recon harness, mission bag, Atlas, Hercules, free fall bag, “buy once cry once”, Second Amendment, Swig nutritional supplements, Onsite Firearms Training

"Setting personal goals, both in training and in life, fuels growth and resilience."Episode SummaryIn this episode, I was joined in the studio by Rachel Maloney from Night Fision and Glow Rhino, filling in for Big Keith, who was on vacation. We kicked things off with some fun banter about keeping up with our kids and how humbling it is to realize the next generation can run circles around us at the gym or pool.We covered a lot of ground, starting with current happenings in the firearms industry, like the overwhelming topic of the SIG P320 and ongoing debates about product safety and consumer trust. Rachel shared her unique perspective on firearms training, emphasizing the importance of mental “software” over chasing hardware benchmarks.On the news front, we dived into California’s ammo background check ruling, reflected on the impact of suppressor tax changes, and how new state laws keep making life challenging for responsible gun owners—especially in states like NY and CA. Rachel also gave us a deep dive on Night Fision’s new optic plate and sight system, breaking down how they’re simplifying the “co-witness” confusion for everyday defensive shooters.For Top Gear, I reviewed the Q Sling from Flatline Fiber Co., and Rachel did a brilliant hands-on walkthrough of the new Night Fision optic plates. We laughed over a unique gin and tonic from my local farm stand, and wrapped up the show highlighting “good guy with a gun” stories, plus off-topic news like the return of the flip phone summer.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.com7. Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They are a big part of making the show possible.Show SponsorsSwig – Whole-foods nutritional supplements. Use code TG20 for 20% off at swig.comSecond Amendment Foundation – Protecting your 2A rights for over 50 years. Join at saf.org for just $25/year.Key TakeawaysFirearms training progresses from chasing numbers to mastering mindset—the “software” matters more than split times or draw speed.The SIG P320 controversy remains a hot topic; everyone wants closure and meaningful solutions for consumer safety.New York and California gun owners face relentless legislative hurdles—any “win” in court (like CA’s ammo background check reversal) is met with more laws.Responsible gun ownership includes staying vigilant in the courts and supporting organizations like SAF, GOA, and FPC.Quality gear matters: the Flatline Fiber Co. Qela Sling offers an intuitive, minimalist design, while Night Fision’s new plate-and-sight combos make the co-witness game simpler and more reliable.Nutrition and self-care for shooters is just as important—whole foods, real meals, and planning ahead support both physical and shooting performance.Real-life “good guy with a gun” situations highlight the importance of training—ownership doesn’t equal skill.The next generation is rediscovering the value of less screen time (flip phone summer!) and more real-world presence.Guest InformationRachel Maloney is a firearms instructor, industry pro, and works with both Glow Rhino (tritium keychains and tools) and Night Fision (tritium night sights and now optic plates). She’s an experienced trainer, passionate about simplifying firearms ownership and empowering responsible shooters at every level. You can find more about her work at nightfision.com and glowrhino.com.KeywordsFirearms podcast, Rachel Maloney, Night Fision, Glow Rhino, Flatline Fiber Co., Keela Sling review, SIG P320, suppressor tax, ammo background check, California gun laws, New York gun laws, Second Amendment Foundation, firearms training, co-witness sights, optic plates, good guy with a gun, gun news, 2A advocacy, nutrition for shooters, Swig, shooting sports, practical gun gear, self-defense, gun community, podcast summary

"Don’t show up to class—or any opportunity—just to do what you always do. Be ready to learn and adapt."Episode SummaryOn this episode of The Gun Experiment, we are joined in studio by gun industry pros and instructors Ben Dewalt and Jared Reston. We talk about everything from Mikes battle with an angry hornet to performance shooting tactics taught by Jared Reston. We tackle thorny industry news like the Sig P320 controversy and Streamlight lawsuits, while also discussing the importance of instructor integrity, the Tim Kennedy Stolen Valor uproar, and the risks and realities of running multiple remote jobs. Rounding it out are laughs about monks getting blackmailed, pet adoption booms thanks to superhero movies, and practical tips for standard-setting and continuous improvement in firearms training.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 the people who make the show possible.Show SponsorsMGS Trade School – Interested in starting a career as a gunsmith? Check out MGS for accredited online programs, business tips, and hands-on training adaptable to your lifestyle or call them at 800-493-4114 and tell them that you heard about them on The Gun Experiment.Key TakeawaysHornet stories remind us: Stay humble; there’s always someone with a crazier story (like getting shot in the face).Holster “cheat code”: Jared reveals how to navigate Safariland’s often-frustrating holster finder. Gun + “Any Optic” + big or small light = will it fit? (Most times, yes.)Sig P320 debate: We discuss the FBI’s latest report, the importance of transparency, and why reliability and user trust matter, especially for EDC and agency contracts.Integrity in instruction: Talking about the Tim Kennedy controversy, we stress the need for honesty, policing our own communities, and the long-term value of reputation over hype.Training mindset: Master the fundamentals, set and understand your standards, and don’t skip building a ritual for your performance—whether on the range or at home.Diversifying the learning experience: Hosting different instructors with ethos and strong material helps create well-rounded gun owners and shooters.Work hustles and ethics: Want to juggle multiple remote jobs? It’s possible, but your hustle—and your morals—will set you apart.The lighter side: From horney monks, airline AI ticket pricing, to the explosion of dog adoptions after the new Superman movie—a reminder that the coolest gun guys have lives, laughs, and opinions about everything under the sun.Guest InformationJared RestonIG: @restongrouptrainingWebsite: restongrouptraining.comSpecializes in: Duty gear expertise at Safariland, firearms training, and owner of a chocolate shop in Jacksonville, FL.Ben DewaltIG: @onsightfirearmstrainingWebsite: oftllc.usSpecializes in: Firearms instruction, bringing in top industry educators.Keywordsgun podcast, firearms training, Safariland holster finder, Sig P320 controversy, performance shooting, after action report, gun instructor integrity, Tim Kennedy Stolen Valor, Streamlight lawsuit, training standards, appendix carry, law enforcement firearm, gun community, mushroom coffee, online gunsmithing, remote work hustle, dog adoption, gun safety, gun experiment, Ben Dewalt, Jared Reston, The Gun Experiment podcast, shooting fundamentals, modern firearms instructionListen, learn, laugh—and let us know what you think!