"Freedom must be taught, protected, and passed on to the next generation—it’s not inherited, it’s earned." Episode Summary In this jam-packed episode of The Gun Experiment, Big Keith and I sit down with Keith Davis, better known as “2A Dad,” to dive deep into passing down freedom, responsibility, and gun safety through our families. We explore the evolution of the 2A Family and how the journey started with simple trips to the range and became a mission to inspire and equip the next generation. I...
Apr 14, 2026•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 146
"Purpose-driven choices lead to better gear and growth in the sport." Episode Summary In this episode, we chop it up with Roy Hill, Senior Editor and Brand Copy Manager at Magpul Industries. We talk about shooting sports for kids, new innovations from Magpul, the importance of modularity, and how to approach building your AR-15. We also dig into the recent news involving Second Amendment rights, military carry, birthright citizenship, and a little space travel. Roy shares personal stories from h...
Apr 07, 2026•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 102
"Be a man of your word, don’t be a hypocrite." Episode Summary In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we chopped it up with Frank Riess, owner of Wallkill River Small Arms and our favorite recurring guest co-host. We dove into the current state of the firearms industry, the surprising resurgence of first-time buyers, and the ever-persistent confusion around New York gun laws. We also tackled the ammo supply crunch, the great red dot vs. iron sight debate, and the looming legal impacts of new rul...
Mar 31, 2026•1 hr 31 min•Ep. 101
"Critical Thinking Is As Valuable As As any Other Skill You Train." Episode Summary On this episode of The Gun Experiment, Keith and I dive deep into the world of executive protection with veteran and security expert Ashton Dickey. We explore how Ashton transitioned from combat medic and nurse to running his own executive protection company. Ashton gives us a no-nonsense look at what the job really entails versus Hollywood glamor, the critical soft skills needed, how medical training gives you a...
Mar 24, 2026•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 145
"Innovation drives excellence—hard fit, hard use, and yes, it must look damn good." Episode Summary On this episode of The Gun Experiment, I sit down with Matt Riker, CEO of Kings River Custom, to celebrate our 100th Chopping It Up episode! We dig into what makes Kings River Custom 1911s stand out from industry giants, the value of employee ownership, and that sweet spot between form, function, and firepower. We dive deeper into the world of custom 1911 builds, nerd out over Damascus frames and ...
Mar 17, 2026•1 hr 25 min•Ep. 100
"In moments of crisis, we don’t rise to the occasion—we sink to the level of our training." Episode Summary In this episode of The Gun Experiment, We sit down with Kris Hasenauer, a retired Special Forces Green Beret and current CEO of Emerald Medical. We dive deep into the world of tactical medicine, trauma care, mental health, and the cutting-edge therapies available for veterans and first responders. Kris shares his journey from military medic to running a veteran-focused medical clinic, open...
Mar 10, 2026•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 144
"As citizens, we are in charge—especially when we take charge." Episode Summary In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we chop it up with Second Amendment attorney Peter Tilem. We dive deep into current legal issues facing gun owners in New York, from storage laws to the controversial proposed Glock ban, and the latest challenges to sensitive location restrictions in neighboring New Jersey. We share relatable stories—like my shotgun shell reloading catastrophe—and get practical, word-for-word ad...
Mar 03, 2026•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 99
"Remember that being underestimated is an opportunity. Carve out your own niche, innovate, and let your authenticity do the talking." Episode Summary: Welcome to this episode of The Gun Experiment , where Big Keith and I sit down with Chris Long, the content and communications manager — now head of marketing — for Walther Arms. We kick things off sharing funny and awkward stories from daily life, then dive into Chris’s unique journey from fuel tank cleaning to leading marketing for one of the gu...
Feb 24, 2026•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 143
"When things look bleak, stay true to your beliefs because hope and a positive perspective can move mountains." Episode Summary In this episode of The Gun Experiment , we chop it up with Casey Betzold, Director of Global Solutions at Brownell's, and dive into everything from gun laws across the US and the globe, to what makes American gun culture unique. We share listener stories, talk about building AR-15s, explore rapid-fire advice for new gun owners, and dissect the shifting laws in New Mexic...
Feb 17, 2026•1 hr 21 min•Ep. 99
"Restraint is a skill—it's just as important to decide when not to act as it is to act decisively." Episode Summary In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we sit down with Erick Gelhaus, a highly experienced firearms instructor with a career spanning the U.S. Army, law enforcement, and the civilian sector. We dig into everything from the evolution of use-of-force thinking, the realities of law enforcement scrutiny, decision-making under stress, and the complexities of training with shotguns and ...
Feb 10, 2026•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 140
"True gun culture isn't about what you own—it's about how you welcome, respect, and learn with others on the journey."Episode Summary In this episode of The Gun Experiment, Big Keith and Mike kick things off chatting about mushroom coffee, new gear, and some funny family moments. We have a big announcement—HSM Ammunition is now our official ammo sponsor! Most importantly, we're chopping it up with one of our favorite people in the gun industry: Chris Blau. Chris joins us to break down what's new...
Feb 03, 2026•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 98
Slow down, think clearly, and prepare in a practical manner. Episode Summary In this episode of The Gun Experiment, my co-host Big Keith and I sit down with Patrick Diedrich, the editorial content director for Recoil Off Grid magazine. We dive deep into the world of survival and preparedness, drawing on Patrick’s background in military reconnaissance, wilderness search and rescue, and hands-on survival training. From lessons learned in third-world countries and disaster zones to practical advice...
Jan 27, 2026•1 hr 19 min•Ep. 141
“Context is everything—whether you’re training to protect yourself or chasing the thrill of competition, know why you’re doing what you’re doing.” Episode Summary In this episode, Keith and I are joined in studio by our longtime friend Sean Martin, AKA Pink Shirt Tactical, media manager for Night Vision and pro shooter for Onsite Firearms Training. We dive deep into the world of competitive shooting, the crossover between defensive and performance skills, and how social media and gear trends imp...
Jan 20, 2026•1 hr 30 min•Ep. 97
Episode Maxim "Purpose doesn’t end when you take off the uniform—find your next mission." Episode Summary In this episode of The Gun Experiment, Big Keith and I sit down with retired Green Beret and motorsports competitor, Nick Merrick. After a career built on strategic thinking and resilience in Special Forces, Nick Merrick decided to channel that same drive into motorsports—founding Green Beret Racing as a way to help fellow veterans rediscover purpose through competition. We dive into his mil...
Jan 13, 2026•1 hr 49 min•Ep. 140
“There’s no substitute for pressure testing your skills—whether on the range or in life, the ability to adapt under stress is what sets you up for success.”Episode Summary In this episode, Big Keith and I (Mike) sit down with Matt Little aka “Gray Beard Actual”—retired Army Green Beret, former SWAT officer, USPSA grandmaster shooter, and host of “The Way is Training” podcast. We chop it up about competition shooting vs tactical defense, decision-making under stress, how to physically and mentall...
Jan 06, 2026•1 hr 21 min•Ep. 96
“Focus on the basics, chase consistency, and embrace the journey.” Episode Summary On this episode of The Gun Experiment, I sat down with Ben Dewalt of On Site Firearms Training and Tim Herron, USPSA Grandmaster and firearms instructor, for an in-depth conversation all about pistol training. We discussed philosophies on improvement, how to design performance-oriented classes, and dispelled common shooting myths and bad advice. Ben and Tim walked us through what separates good shooters from great...
Dec 30, 2025•1 hr 19 min•Ep. 95
Episode Maxim Understanding the psychology behind violence is key to protecting ourselves, our families, and our society. Episode Summary In this episode of The Gun Experiment, Big Keith and I, Mike , sit down with renowned forensic psychiatrist Dr. Carole Lieberman. We dig deep into the psychological roots of violence—examining how childhood trauma, societal shifts, and even the media we consume can shape tendencies toward aggression. We also touch on urban crime, mass shootings, and the shifti...
Dec 23, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 139
Episode Maxim "Celebrate innovation, embrace craftsmanship, and champion the values that shape gun culture—whether it’s gear, mindset, or our rights." Episode Summary In this episode, I sit down with Mitch Eckler to chop it up about everything from German gun culture, American trailblazing, and the latest gear to the state of the Second Amendment. We uncork some Penelope Bourbon, get hands-on with Lucky Wolusiak’s extraordinary knives, and talk about flagship firearms from Kings River Customs—in...
Dec 16, 2025•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 94
"True awareness starts with connection—to nature, to people, and to our environment.Episode Summary In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we sit down with Fred Osuna, a renowned expert on advanced human tracking and anti-tracking skills. We dive deep into Fred Osuna’s background—from growing up in southern Arizona as part of the Yaqui tribe to his time in the Marine Corps and his transition to teaching tracking to elite law enforcement, military, and civilians. Fred Osuna shares the philosophy ...
Dec 09, 2025•1 hr 25 min•Ep. 138
War is the natural state of man—success depends on constant struggle, strength of character, and surrounding yourself with people of virtue. Episode Summary: On this episode of The Gun Experiment, I sit down with Matt Larsen, head of the U.S. Army's combatives program, for a deep, no-B.S. discussion about guns, philosophy, AI, economics, and what it means to be a high-value man. We dive into everything from how the gun industry uses marketing strategies (just like everyone else), to the ongoing ...
Dec 02, 2025•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 93
"Stay within your means and never bet what you can’t afford to lose." Episode Summary In this episode, Big Keith and I sit down with Graig Davis, founder of NeoMag, to talk about his dedication to American manufacturing, his Second Amendment journey, and the story behind creating one of the most innovative everyday carry products in the firearms industry. From reminiscing about childhood gun cabinets and Thanksgiving traditions to deep dives into engineering, prototyping, and thoughtful product ...
Nov 25, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Ep. 137
"You have a right to defend yourself—know the legal landscape and prepare for the unexpected." Episode Summary In 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 unpac...
Nov 18, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 92
"Being prepared is about continual growth, self-reliance, and consistently expanding your knowledge across all facets of life." Episode Summary In 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 c...
Nov 11, 2025•1 hr 24 min•Ep. 137
"There’s value in self-sufficiency and the liberty to live as you choose"Episode Summary In 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 overrea...
Nov 04, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 136
"The power of a crowd lies not just in its size, but in the perceptions it shapes."Episode Summary In 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 challe...
Oct 28, 2025•1 hr 33 min•Ep. 135
"Just because you can, doesn’t always mean you should." Episode Summary In 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 R...
Oct 21, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 90
"Embrace the experience—whether you hunt for the harvest or the camaraderie, time in the outdoors is always well spent." Episode Summary In 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 ta...
Oct 14, 2025•54 min•Ep. 134
“Responsible gun ownership, community engagement, and responsible leadership build stronger, safer communities.”Episode Summary In 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 o...
Oct 07, 2025•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 89
"Passion is the engine behind achievement."Episode Summary In 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...
Sep 30, 2025•1 hr 25 min•Ep. 88
“Showing up is important, whether it's on the range or behind the mic.” Episode Summary Hey everyone—Mike here, alongside my co-host Big Keith! In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we faced a podcasting curveball: our scheduled guest ghosted us…for the second week in a row. Instead of letting it get us down, we embraced the theme and delivered a raw, gear-focused conversation between the two of us. We took a deep dive into plate carrier setups, home defensive mindset, rimfire PRS shooting, and...
Sep 23, 2025•57 min•Ep. 133
