Episodes

  • 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!

  • In today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're bringing Marvin from AMMJ to discuss his new commercial-grade Laser Aiming Module. When it comes to laser aiming modules or LAMs, there are a lot of limitations placed on the output of civilian lasers due to FDA regulations. Today, subject matter experts Hop and BrassFacts will get to chat with Marvin about the Penumbra LAM, some of the inspiration behind it, the struggles that Marvin has had to go through hto get it to market, and of course what his plans for the future are with his latest product.

    ABOUT PENUMBRA LASER AIMING MODULE

    The aiming lasers are slaved and are calibrated together. The illuminator is on a separate bench and can be calibrated independently and spot size is adjusted with a throw lever at the rear of the device. The housing and components are machined aluminum and feature industry standard mounting surfaces. A micro red dot on the top of the penumbra. the bottom has a 3 position aimpoint mount compatible hole pattern allowing you unlimited configurations making it easy to mount at any height or clamping system that you prefer.

    The controls for output of the laser and illuminator are also independent of each other with a high medium and low output each and defuser for the illuminator. The green laser will not fire if an Ir mode is also active. One button for activation; press and hold for momentary, and a double press for constant activation - this also applies to any crane style cable button.

    FEATURES

    ✅ Light-weight & low-profile stance

    ✅ USE/STANDBY Weak LED indicator

    ✅ Adjustable NIR VCSEL illuminator

    ✅ Security tethered loop tie down

    ✅ Rail secured by 2 shock nuts

    ✅ Multi-function keypads

    ✅ Stability sensor

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  • We're back again in our ongoing series of top products according to the TFB crew. Previously we've talked about our top 5 and top 3 guns for a minimalist setup, but after seeing how almost everyone will default to the same types of guns almost every time, I thought we'd shake things up a bit this week. This week we're talking micro red dots. Just 20 years ago the first inklings of the concept were starting to take hold in the competitive shooting and military world. Today we're pretty spoiled for choice when it comes to red dot optics on pistols and that's why I'm joined today by TFB writers Nic L and Darwin N to talk about their current top 5 pistol dots (not all of them are red). Nic has been a frequent guest on our show and not only produces content for TFB but also hosts his own podcast and produces videos of his own about just about everything in the firearms space. Darwin is one of the newest recruits to the TFB squad and brings a lot of experience from both within the firearms industry, and outside of the firearms industry as a competitive shooter and life-long gun nerd. So what will their top 5 pistol red dot optics be? Tune in and find out in this week's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast. Also, be sure to let us know what your top 5 pistol red dots are!

    Nic Lenze on Instagram

    Darwin N on Instagram

  • We're back in the studio again with some more of the TFB staff talking about their top picks for guns. Last week we kept things pretty restrictive, with only three guns. However, given that we also restricted people to "just those three guns for the rest of your life" it felt a little bit too predictable because most people in that type of situation would almost always default to "AR, Semi-Auto Pistol, Shotgun." With our two new guests TFB writers Doug E and Patrik O, this week, we're giving them two extra guns they can add to their forever collection, which should spice things up a bit. Today we'll hear the differing opinions on what 5 guns they'd buy if money wasn't an issue, and those 5 guns were the only ones they could have in their collection for the rest of their lives. It's a ridiculous question, yes, but also a fun one at that. So sit back, relax, and enjoy as Patrik O and Doug E discuss their "minimalist" 5 gun collection they'd own for the rest of their lives if money wasn't an issue.

  • We've all probably thought about it at one time or another: "If money wasn't an issue but I could only pick three guns to use for the rest of my life, what would they be?" This is often a common thought experiment I've seen in various forms during my time as a firearms owner and today we're bringing all of you some direct answers straight from the knowledgeable yet eclectic TFB staff. For this first discussion, we're bringing on seasoned TFB writer and AllOutdoor.com Managing Editor Adam Scepaniak, as well as AOD and OHUB writer Paul B to talk about their own picks for their minimalist three gun setup, in addition to some extra talk about forgotten cartridges we miss or wish were more popular. Of course, we'd like to hear from our audience too! What would be your three picks for guns if you could only own three for the rest of your life? Thanks again for tuning in to TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're looking forward to hearing from you soon!

  • On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're bringing back on long-time friend of the channel Kirk from Aero precision to talk a bit about what he's been up to, and what he thinks of common "backpack guns." A backpack gun generally refers to a compact, portable firearm that is small enough to be carried in a backpack - typically a rimfire gun chambered in 22LR. These guns are often designed for ease of transport and quick access, making them popular for self-defense, hiking, or camping in remote areas. The term can describe various types of firearms, including folding rifles, short-barreled shotguns, or handguns that are equipped with braces or stocks. Takedown rifles like the Ruger 10/22 are often nodded to as the go-to weapons for the backpack gun task, but is that true in 2024? Today Kirk and I will discuss that, and a couple of other related topics in this week's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast.

  • On this week's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we're bringing on another of the newer TFB crew. This time we'll be speaking with our resident Canuck, Mr. Zac K. Zac has a long and interesting portfolio of work similar to what we do here at TFB, but in a few other semi-related industries. Today Zac and I talk a bit about how Canadian firearms laws work, and what steps Canadians are taking to ensure they can continue to enjoy firearms. In addition to some of Zac's worst encounters with the misrepresentation of firearms in current Canadian media, we'll also talk a bit about Canada's rich firearms culture and history. We'll also get a quick sneak peek at some of Zac's upcoming reviews and editorials coming to The Firearm Blog. Please give a warm welcome to TFB Staff Writer Zac K!

  • A few months back, TFB received a new Editor-in-chief. Pete’s departure was also a handing-off of the reigns to our guest today, Mr. Josh Centers. Josh Centers comes from a background entirely based in the media world. From web and print publications, Search Engine optimization, social media integration and campaigns, and more, Josh is bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table here at TFB. However, just because Josh has a lot of experience, doesn’t mean he’s going to completely flip the script. As you’ll see today, Josh is a die-hard firearms enthusiast and it’s part of what brought him to TFB. Today we’ll hear how he came to be editor-in-chief of TFB, what some of his favorite firearms are, and what the path going forward for TFB looks like from his perspective.

  • It's no secret that suppressors, and in general NFA items have gone down drastically in terms of inventory, and wait times. Ever since the inclusion of Silencers and or Suppressors into the growing list of NFA items, wait times have almost always been the biggest inhibiting factor for potential suppressor owners. After all, who wants to wait over a year to take possession of a tube with some holes in it that you paid over $1000 for? Now that it looks like the road going forward is much more stable and far less painful to wait through, we thought it was time we brought on Dave Matheny, CEO of the Podcast's Sponsor - Silencer Shop. Silencer Shop and by extension Dave Matheny both thing that no matter how you slice it, this boom in suppressor ownership is a net positive on the entire industry. Today we'll talk about some of the negative light this recent boom has cast on the silencer industry, and also talk a bit about how Silencer Shop can help you decide which route to take when starting your NFA journey, and how they can help you pick the right suppressor for the guns you'll be shooting. Please welcome back Dave Matheny of Silencer Shop!

  • This week we have Roy Hill of SOWW or the Special Operations Wounded Warriors. At SOWW, people like our guest Roy, specialize in providing cost-free assistance to those of the special operations community who need a bit of extra help reacclimating back into civilian life. SOWW (Special Operations Wounded Warriors), a 501(c)(3) Charity, was established in August 2012 to provide outdoor experiences and therapeutic retreats for active duty and veteran U.S. Military Special Operations Forces who have been wounded in battle or significant training accidents. Many of these individuals have been awarded the Purple Heart Medal. Founded by five U.S. Military Special Forces Veterans, local businessmen, and avid outdoorsmen, SOWW aims to offer thanks and fellowship to the brave men and women of our Special Operations Forces who have sacrificed so much for our freedom and safety. These events can range from things like fishing trips, camping trips, hikes, shooting events, and exciting aerial hog hunts as well as a special annual event that Roy is a huge fan of. As you’ll see today, Roy and SOWW believe that by supporting these service members, who risk their lives to defend our freedoms and often suffer personal injury, we can all make a meaningful difference in their lives. Please welcome Roy Hill of SOWW to the show!

    Support SOWW And Learn More

  • This week on TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we're bringing back on Les Winner of Pegasus Tests and Polaris Logistics. Most of you will remember Les from our coverage of Woodland, and Finnish Brutality in previous years. Les Winner is an accomplished competitive shooter and an active gear reviewer on his own YouTube Channel - Pegasus Tests. Les also spends a lot of his time in the legal trafficking of firearms between countries for firearms competitors. If you happen to be attending a Brutality event overseas, Les can help you arrange to bring your own firearms and gear over in the most convenient and hassle-free way possible. Today we'll talk a bit about how Les' business works, as well as some of the most interesting guns and gear he saw during this year's Lynx Brutality 2023 held in Solvenia at the Lynx Pro range.

  • This week on TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we're bringing back Calvin from the YouTube channel and Instagram Account Firepower United to talk about his experiences at Lynx Brutality 2024. Outside of his humorous and oftentimes polarizing posts and skits on social media, Calvin is actually an accomplished USPSA and IPSC shooter, having competed across the globe in a number of other competitions as well even if its just for the fun of competing at a local match. Today Calvin and I will talk about some of what happened at this year's match, explore some of the pitfalls of not bringing your own tested guns and gear to a firearms competition, and some of his thoughts on the types of targets you should be shooting during training for maximum efficiency. Please welcome Calvin from Firepower United to the show!

    Calvin on YouTube

    Calvin's Instagram

  • In this week’s episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast, we’ve brought on one of the core members of the Silencer Central team, Ryan H, to talk about what he’s recently seen in the suppressor industry. The ATF has recently decreased wait times for e-form 4’s to about a week or so and this has led many who previously would not buy suppressors to suddenly want one. This has not only led to virtually every suppressor manufacturer running out of stock but also muzzle device manufacturers as well. Today we’ll talk about whether or not this is a good thing overall for both manufacturers and customers, and also what Ryan thinks the suppressor landscape is going to look like going forward as people start getting their first suppressors - is that where it ends for most people? Find out today in this episode of TFB’s Behind the Gun Podcast featuring Ryan H from Silencer Central!

    Silencer Central Website

    Silencer Central on Instagram

    Silencer Central on YouTube”

  • Lynx Brutality 2024 is an international two-gun competition similar to other "Brutality" events found across the globe. Inspired and derived from two gun action challenge matches organized by Karl Kasarda and Ian McCollum of InRnageTV, Lynx Brutality is the Slovenian variant of the match that invites all competitors to demonstrate both their shooting skill and their grit through a grueling two-day, 10-stage match. Competitors at Lynx Brutality of course need a whole lot of gear if they're to participate in the Armored division and one such competitor is one we've spoken to before on the TFB Podcast, Mr. Mike Burns aka Bloke On The Range. While Mike has contributed to TFB and TFBTV in the past, these days Mike focuses entirely on his own channel where he primarily talks about historical weapons and their practical application. Mike has some interesting thoughts on his setup this year which was a "LARP" of an Iraqi National Policeman. Today we'll get his full gear breakdown as well as what some of his best and worst moments were from Lynx Brutality 2024. Please welcome Bloke On The Range back to the program!

    Lynx Brutality 2024 Live Match Coverage

    Mike - Bloke On The Range YouTube

  • In today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, we're excited to welcome Matt and Annalise from FirearmLand. They'll be discussing the ins and outs of buying, selling, and trading firearms through their two businesses FirearmLand and CashForArms. FirearmLand specializes in sourcing, researching, and auctioning a diverse range of firearms, from modern pieces to rare antiques and even NFA items. Matt and Annalise will share insights into how they manage FirearmLand alongside their other business, CashForArms, and the unique opportunities this has given them to handle and shoot firearms they wouldn't normally encounter. We'll get to hear about some of their favorite firearms they've seen come across their desks and also some of the trends they've noticed in the gun industry over the years since FirearmLand was opened. They'll also talk about their growing YouTube channel, which offers viewers an up-close look at rare and unique firearms. Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Matt and Annalise from FirearmLand!

  • Hailing from New York and with a background in the Television industry, TFBTV's Adam M isn't your typical crew member. Adam didn't seek out guns as a form of entertainment or even curiosity but rather as a means of self-defense. After a disturbing encounter with a home invader, Adam immediately sought out to gain a means of self-defense - a gun. After getting a gun, Adam also realized he had no idea what he was doing and thus he sought out information on the internet which eventually led him to TFBTV videos. Long story short, it turns out James and Adam live pretty close by one another and this eventually led to Adam joining the team as a much-needed editor during the busy SHOT Show season. Today we'll hear from Adam as he shares his background with firearms with us, his work history in Television and video editing, and what his firearm goals are going forward in 2024. Please welcome Adam M to the show!

  • The NRA Annual Meeting and Exhibits are a yearly treat for Luke and Hop. In stark opposition to SHOT Show, which is an entirely industry-focused event, the NRA show is for customers and gun hobbyists. At the NRA Show you'll find loads of firearms accessories for sale, and a bunch of helpful staff from the gun companies both big and small to tell you all about their products, and show you the ins and outs of them. Today Hop and Luke will go over some of their favorite and least favorite things about the NRA Show and their thoughts on some of the new products featured at this year's Texas based NRA Annual Meetings. If you missed out on the NRA Show entirely, Luke & Hop were on the scene this year to cover some of the most popular releases at the show. You can watch those videos below.

    TFBTV Showtime NRAAM 2024 Playlist

  • Meprolight optics have been in use across the globe for quite some time now. Starting in their home country of Israel, Meprolight gradually broke out of its role as a provider of military technology to the IDF, and now provides quality optics, iron sights, and laser aiming devices that work in a wide variety of situations, and for a wide variety of users. Today I'm joined by Eric and Jordan from Meprolight who will help us go over the history that this company has had from its humble beginnings making tritium powered mortar sights for the IDF, to being one of the more recognizable brands today when it comes to quality red dots and dual illumination reflex sights. Please welcome Jordan and Eric to the show!

  • On today's episode of TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast we're proud to have Rich Graham of the Full Spectrum Warrior training company. Rich Graham is a former Navy SEAL team member who transitioned out of military life and right into training life. While he started his post-Navy career off by being a physical fitness trainer, he quickly picked up a passion for teaching firearms training to various law enforcement individuals, which eventually led to him starting up his company - Full Spectrum Warrior. Located in Florida, and open to both the public and law enforcement and military outfits, Full Spectrum Warrior covers a wide variety of training ranging from home defense and CQB training to long-range precision shooting as well as land navigation and stalking. Rich Graham's philosophy when it comes to training is to give his students the "full spectrum" of the subject rather than simply running them through only firearms drills. Every course Rich has available is well-researched and draws from his years of expertise as a SEAL and his continued training today as he continues to learn himself. Today we'll hear Rich's story, and some of his thoughts on why he teaches his classes the way he does, and how it can help virtually anyone who carries and uses a firearm. Please welcome Rich Graham to the show!

    https://fullspectrumwarriors.com/ https://www.instagram.com/fullspectrumwarriorusa/ https://www.facebook.com/FullSpectrumWarriorUS/
  • Most of you are familiar with TFB's own Vladimir Onokoy - a Russian writer who's not just an expert on the AK platform, but a wide variety of firearms from across the globe. Vlad has not only served as a consultant for military outfits around the world, but as you'll learn today, he's also been a consultant, and actor, and also worked in the exciting world of firearm prop houses for Russian-based films. Today Vlad shares with us some of his history in this exciting world, how it connects to some of his modern-day writing, and some of the more unsavory experiences he had while working on sets like Kalashnikov (AK-47), and the 2021 film Sky (Russian: Небо; Nebo) also known as Mission «Sky». When it comes to exciting tales and interesting factoids about some of filmmaking most popular guns, few people other than Larry Zanoff have as much to tell as Vlad does and that's why we're glad to bring him back on the podcast today!

    Vladimir on Instagram

    Vladimir's Articles on The Firearm Blog