The GUNS Magazine Podcast

In this episode, Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington bust one of the biggest myths about law enforcement: that every police officer is a firearms expert.  Drawing from decades of service as cops, trainers, and gun writers, they pull back the curtain on the reality of police firearms proficiency — or the lack thereof. From shocking stories of rusted-in revolvers and mismatched ammo to the harsh truth about agency qualification standards, they reveal why most officers fall far short of public expectations. And more importantly, they explain what this means for concealed carriers, why complacency is so dangerous, and how regular, disciplined training — not a badge — defines true firearms expertise. Key Takeaways • The Big Myth: The public assumes cops are gun experts, but most only meet the bare minimum standards. • 10-80-10 Rule: About 10% of officers are experts, 80% do the minimum, and 10% should not carry at all. • Agency Reality: With 15,000+ mostly small agencies nationwide, qualifications are often just 25 rounds once or twice a year. • Horror Stories: Real cases include a revolver rusted into its holster, a “one-shot” SWAT 1911, and a detective’s revolver loaded with random desk-drawer ammo. • Complacency Kills: Shooting is a perishable skill—both officers and armed citizens must avoid complacency and train consistently. • Dry Fire Works: Tools like Mantis X10 make home practice effective for maintaining fundamentals. • Personal Responsibility: Unlike officers, private citizens can’t fall back on minimum standards—your life depends on your training. EPISODE SPONSOR The Guns Podcast is presented by Ruger Firearms. Ruger has been trusted for generations to deliver rugged, reliable firearms built in America. From hunting rifles to everyday carry handguns, Ruger sets the standard for durability and performance. Explore the full lineup and discover what makes Ruger a name shooters trust at Ruger.com. -- Have a topic idea or a guest you’d like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email editor@gunspostcast.us Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us

In this episode of the Guns Podcast, hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington dive into the enduring world of classic firearms that continue to shape modern shooting. From legendary handguns like the 1911 and Glock to iconic revolvers by Smith & Wesson and Colt, they explore why these designs have stood the test of time. The discussion also covers battle-proven military rifles such as the AR-15 and AK-47, as well as historic models like the Mauser 98 and Winchester 94. Listeners will learn how these firearms blend tradition, reliability, and innovation—making them just as relevant today as when they were first introduced. Key Takeaways Why timeless firearms remain popular for reliability, simplicity, and performance. The 1911 as the ultimate example of a classic handgun still trusted worldwide. How Glock pistols became a dominant force in the concealed carry and duty markets. The enduring appeal of Smith & Wesson and Colt revolvers. Why the AR-15 and AK-47 remain cultural and functional cornerstones. The Mauser 98’s influence on modern bolt-action rifles. How the Winchester 94 preserves the heritage of lever-action rifles. -- Have a topic idea or a guest you’d like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email Editor@gunspodcast.us Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Make sure you check out GUNSmagazine.com and AmericanHandgunner.com for all your favorite writers and stories, and visit the podcast website at https://gunspodcast.us for links to all our shows, news and merch!

In this episode of the Guns Magazine Podcast, host Brent Wheat and special guest Roy Huntington explore the world of leather holsters. They dive into what makes leather a classic choice for carrying a firearm, from its unique feel and traditional craftsmanship to the way it molds to the user over time. They also compare it to modern materials like Kydex, discussing the pros and cons of each, while offering practical advice on how to care for your leather holster to ensure it lasts a lifetime. Join Brent and Roy as they discuss the ongoing search for the perfect holster and share tips on how to choose a safe, functional, and durable holster that's right for you. Key Moments and Takeaways Leather holsters have a unique character and comfort. Holsters wear out and should be replaced regularly. Choosing a quality holster is an investment in safety. Leather holsters provide a connection to tradition. Caring for leather holsters is essential for longevity. Kydex and leather serve different purposes in holstering. The search for the perfect holster is ongoing and personal. Holster safety is paramount; they should cover the trigger guard. Understanding your needs is crucial when selecting a holster. Experimenting with different holsters is part of the process. --- Have a topic idea or a guest you’d like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email Editor@gunspodcast.us Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Make sure you check out GUNSmagazine.com and AmericanHandgunner.com for all your favorite writers and stories, and visit the podcast website at https://gunspodcast.us for links to all our shows, news and merch!

In this special 300th episode, GUNS Magazine host Brent Wheat and guest Roy Huntington make a historic announcement: the print editions of GUNS Magazine and American Handgunner magazine are ending after 70 years. Join them as they explain the business realities behind this bittersweet decision and reveal how the brand will continue in a new, digital-first era. The podcast itself also gets a new name — welcome to the Guns Podcast US. Key Takeaways & Highlights: 70 Years of History: The end of the print editions of GUNS Magazine and American Handgunner magazine. Challenges of Print: A deep dive into the business of publishing, including the low profit margins of subscriptions and the financial realities that led to this decision. The Power of Digital: How the brand is focusing on its website, YouTube channel, and podcast to deliver content every day. The Soul of the Brand: An emotional discussion on how the team's passion, integrity, and respect for their readers will continue in the digital space. Podcast Rebrand: The Guns Magazine Podcast is now the Guns Podcast US. Join us for this momentous episode as we reflect on the past, embrace the future, and look forward to continuing to provide the best firearms content in the industry. Like, subscribe, and share to support the new digital journey of these iconic brands! -- Have a topic idea or a guest you’d like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email Editor@gunspodcast.us Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Visit our website at https://gunspodcast.us

Ever wonder how some of the most famous firearms of all time started as total flops? 🤯 Join hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington as they dive into the fascinating history of guns that were initially "poo-pooed" by the public but went on to become legends.  In this episode, we cover: The Winchester 1873: Dubbed the "gun that won the West," it wasn't an instant hit! Find out why the single-shot rifle was initially preferred over the lever-action repeater. The Marlin 336: Discover how this rifle, once considered a "poor man's Winchester," became the second best-selling hunting rifle of all time. The Colt Single Action Army & Colt Python: From being dropped from production to becoming iconic collector's items, learn about the incredible comebacks of these legendary revolvers. The M1 Garand: The rifle that helped win WWII almost didn't make it! Hear how a rocky start and military resistance nearly left this icon in the dust. The AR-15: Once mocked as a "Tinker toy," this "space gun" made of polymers and aluminum was a revolutionary design. We discuss how it went from being sneered at to becoming America's most popular rifle. The GLOCK: The "fantastic plastic" that changed everything. We explore the initial backlash against polymer frames and how Gaston Glock's genius business strategy made them the go-to for law enforcement and civilians alike. This is a deep dive into the stories of innovation, skepticism, and ultimate triumph in the world of firearms. Don't miss this one! Don't forget to like and subscribe! Your support helps us bring you more great content every week. Have a topic idea or a guest you’d like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email podcast@gunsmagazine.com. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign-up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the GUNS Magazine Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week.

Join hosts Brent Wheat and Roy Huntington as they delve into the fascinating evolution of gun culture. From the old-school days of hunting rifles and target shooting to the modern era of tactical gear and self-defense, they explore how major events and shifting social perceptions have changed the way we think about firearms.  Episode Highlights: The surprising influence of the Gulf War on the AR-15 and polymer pistol markets. Why the "tactical" trend might be on the wane, and what's next for the industry. The surprising, welcoming nature of today's diverse gun community. Get ready to hear some straight talk, share your thoughts in the comments, and discover why the world of shooting is far more complex and interesting than you might think. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon so you don't miss an episode! 🔔 -- Have a topic idea or a guest you’d like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email podcast@gunsmagazine.com. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign-up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the GUNS Magazine Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week.

Discover how GunBroker can be a game-changer for firearm dealers! Join GUNS Magazine editor Brent Wheat and "Mr. GunBroker" Allen Forkner as they dismantle the biggest misconception in the industry: that GunBroker is a competitor to brick-and-mortar stores. In this episode of GunBroker University, they reveal how this online platform is actually a powerful partner, helping dealers expand their reach and boost their sales. Whether you're a large retailer or a small, one-man shop, you'll learn how to leverage GunBroker to: Expand Your Showroom: Instantly gain a nationwide customer base of over 8.5 million registered users, turning your local inventory into a 24/7 national storefront. Boost In-Store Traffic: Facilitate firearm transfers from online sales, bringing new customers directly into your shop for potential upsells on accessories, ammo, and services like range memberships and training classes. Liquidate Inventory: Find buyers for hard-to-sell or specialized firearms, turning slow-moving or unusual trade-ins into quick revenue. Grow Your Business: Get expert tips on optimizing your online listings with professional photography and clear descriptions, and learn how to use GunBroker's robust tools to integrate with your existing point-of-sale systems. Plus, get a look at the latest market trends, including surprising growth in the used firearm and parts markets. This is essential listening for any FFL holder looking to thrive in the modern firearms market. EPISODE SPONSOR This series of the GUNS Magazine Podcast is sponsored by GunBroker.com — the largest online marketplace dedicated to firearms, hunting, shooting, and related products. Launched in 1999, GunBroker.com gives you a safe, secure, and transparent way to buy and sell firearms, ammunition, hunting gear, and much more by strict adherence to gun ownership policies and regulations through licensed firearms dealers as transfer agents. GunBroker.com promotes responsible ownership of guns and firearms. -- Have a topic idea or a guest you’d like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email podcast@gunsmagazine.com. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign-up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the GUNS Magazine Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week.

Allen Forkner from GunBroker.com alerts sellers to common red flags they should be on the lookout for when offering a firearm for sale. EPISODE SPONSOR This series of the GUNS Magazine Podcast is sponsored by GunBroker.com — the largest online marketplace dedicated to firearms, hunting, shooting, and related products. Launched in 1999, GunBroker.com gives you a safe, secure, and transparent way to buy and sell firearms, ammunition, hunting gear, and much more by strict adherence to gun ownership policies and regulations through licensed firearms dealers as transfer agents. GunBroker.com promotes responsible ownership of guns and firearms. -- Have a topic idea or a guest you’d like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email podcast@gunsmagazine.com. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign-up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the GUNS Magazine Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week.

Host Brent T. Wheat sits down with longtime friend and firearms expert Roy Huntington to talk about something every shooter needs to hear: slow down and shoot straight! -- Have a topic idea or guest you’d like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email podcast@gunsmagazine.com. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign-up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the GUNS Magazine Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week.

In another installment of "GunBroker University," Allen Forkner returns to share a great gun shipping tool from GunBroker.com that anyone can use for FREE! EPISODE SPONSOR This series of the GUNS Magazine Podcast is sponsored by GunBroker.com — the largest online marketplace dedicated to firearms, hunting, shooting, and related products. Launched in 1999, GunBroker.com gives you a safe, secure, and transparent way to buy and sell firearms, ammunition, hunting gear, and much more by strict adherence to gun ownership policies and regulations through licensed firearms dealers as transfer agents. GunBroker.com promotes responsible ownership of guns and firearms. -- Have a topic idea or a guest you’d like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email podcast@gunsmagazine.com. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign-up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the GUNS Magazine Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week.

GunBroker's Allen Forkner peels back the curtain and offers up insider secrets to give you an edge when buying and selling on GunBroker.com. EPISODE SPONSOR This series of the GUNS Magazine Podcast is sponsored by GunBroker.com — the largest online marketplace dedicated to firearms, hunting, shooting, and related products. Launched in 1999, GunBroker.com gives you a safe, secure, and transparent way to buy and sell firearms, ammunition, hunting gear, and much more by strict adherence to gun ownership policies and regulations through licensed firearms dealers as transfer agents. GunBroker.com promotes responsible ownership of guns and firearms. -- Have a topic idea or guest you’d like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email podcast@gunsmagazine.com. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign-up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the GUNS Magazine Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week.

In the first episode of a special new series called "GunBroker University," Allen Forkner, vice president of public relations and brand management, joins host Brent T. Wheat to share insider tips on how to liquidate a firearm collection, from the local gun store to using the experts at GunBroker.com.  EPISODE SPONSOR This series of the GUNS Magazine Podcast is sponsored by GunBroker.com — the largest online marketplace dedicated to firearms, hunting, shooting, and related products. Launched in 1999, GunBroker.com gives you a safe, secure, and transparent way to buy and sell firearms, ammunition, hunting gear, and much more by strict adherence to gun ownership policies and regulations through licensed firearms dealers as transfer agents. GunBroker.com promotes responsible ownership of guns and firearms. -- Have a topic idea or guest you’d like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email podcast@gunsmagazine.com. Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign-up for our newsletter (https://gunsmagazine.com/newsletters) to get the GUNS Magazine Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week.

The .45 Colt is another one of those ancient black powder cartridges only the old guys shoot, right? Actually, it's still a great and versatile round; it just needs a good PR firm to bring it back to the forefront!   EPISODE SPONSOR The GUNS Magazine Podcast is presented by Rock Island Armory and Armscor. The STK series blends the advantages of a striker-fired pistol with everything you love about your 1911. The STK100 Ultra has an updated frame, with more aggressive side grip panels and checkered front and back straps. But they didn’t stop there. You’ll see that the optic footprint is now larger – which means even more options for your favorite red dot. The new STK from Rock Island Armory. Experience the power and precision of the rock today. https://www.armscor.com/stk-series

Hitting with a handgun, especially a small "carry" gun, at 100 yards and beyond seems impossible. However, with practice and a few tips from Roy Huntington and host Brent T. Wheat, you can do it any time and anywhere.  EPISODE SPONSOR The GUNS Magazine Podcast is presented by Rock Island Armory and Armscor. The STK series blends the advantages of a striker-fired pistol with everything you love about your 1911. The STK100 Ultra has an updated frame, with more aggressive side grip panels and checkered front and back straps. But they didn’t stop there. You’ll see that the optic footprint is now larger – which means even more options for your favorite red dot. The new STK from Rock Island Armory. Experience the power and precision of the rock today. https://www.armscor.com/stk-series

There are lots of newfangled calibers on the market, but what about those "oldies but goodies" — the standard cartridges that have been around since metallic cartridges were invented and are still being used today? Roy Huntington joins host Brent T. Wheat to talk about why you might want to try out one of these "obsolete" and "old-fashioned" loadings.  EPISODE SPONSOR The GUNS Magazine Podcast is presented by Rock Island Armory and Armscor. The STK series blends the advantages of a striker-fired pistol with everything you love about your 1911. The STK100 Ultra has an updated frame, with more aggressive side grip panels and checkered front and back straps. But they didn’t stop there. You’ll see that the optic footprint is now larger – which means even more options for your favorite red dot. The new STK from Rock Island Armory. Experience the power and precision of the rock today. https://www.armscor.com/stk-series

2025 is the year Artificial Intelligence is becoming mainstream. It's already affecting our daily lives and even shooting sports. Unfortunately, recent research shows that the old science fiction trope of computers turning on their masters is a real possibility. American Handgunner Editor Tom McHale and AmericanCOP.com Editor Erick Gelhaus join host Brent T. Wheat to chat about the implications.  Related Link •  https://www.anthropic.com/research/agentic-misalignment EPISODE SPONSOR The GUNS Magazine Podcast is presented by Rock Island Armory and Armscor. The STK series blends the advantages of a striker-fired pistol with everything you love about your 1911. The STK100 Ultra has an updated frame, with more aggressive side grip panels and checkered front and back straps. But they didn’t stop there. You’ll see that the optic footprint is now larger – which means even more options for your favorite red dot. The new STK from Rock Island Armory. Experience the power and precision of the rock today. https://www.armscor.com/stk-series

For those who have ever wondered if they could really shoot someone in self-defense or questioned how they’d handle it psychologically, Brent T. Wheat revisits his favorite episode of the GUNS Magazine Podcast. Capt. Tyson Warmoth candidly shares his experiences and what it’s like to live with the aftermath. EPISODE SPONSOR The GUNS Magazine Podcast is presented by Rock Island Armory and Armscor. The STK series blends the advantages of a striker-fired pistol with everything you love about your 1911. The STK100 Ultra has an updated frame, with more aggressive side grip panels and checkered front and back straps. But they didn’t stop there. You’ll see that the optic footprint is now larger – which means even more options for your favorite red dot. The new STK from Rock Island Armory. Experience the power and precision of the rock today. https://www.armscor.com/stk-series

They're intriguing, but are they practical? Survival rifles, such as the Armalite M7, are interesting special-purpose guns, but do they have a place in today's shooting world? Roy Huntington joins host Brent T. Wheat to discuss this unique niche in firearms.  EPISODE SPONSOR The GUNS Magazine Podcast is presented by Rock Island Armory and Armscor. The STK series blends the advantages of a striker-fired pistol with everything you love about your 1911. The STK100 Ultra has an updated frame, with more aggressive side grip panels and checkered front and back straps. But they didn’t stop there. You’ll see that the optic footprint is now larger – which means even more options for your favorite red dot. The new STK from Rock Island Armory. Experience the power and precision of the rock today. https://www.armscor.com/stk-series

The "three-gun battery" was a staple topic of yesteryear, long before 3-Gun competitions came along. Roy Huntington joins host Brent T. Wheat to discuss the typical three-gun battery of decades ago and offer choices for today. EPISODE SPONSOR The GUNS Magazine Podcast is presented by Rock Island Armory and Armscor. The STK series blends the advantages of a striker-fired pistol with everything you love about your 1911. The STK100 Ultra has an updated frame, with more aggressive side grip panels and checkered front and back straps. But they didn’t stop there. You’ll see that the optic footprint is now larger – which means even more options for your favorite red dot. The new STK from Rock Island Armory. Experience the power and precision of the rock today. https://www.armscor.com/stk-series

The .32 H&R Magnum has a small but devoted following; it offers .38+P power in a smaller package, but lots of folks don't even consider it as a concealed carry option. Roy Huntington joins host Brent T. Wheat to discuss why it's a good choice for self-defense carry.  EPISODE SPONSOR The GUNS Magazine Podcast is presented by Rock Island Armory and Armscor. The STK series blends the advantages of a striker-fired pistol with everything you love about your 1911. The STK100 Ultra has an updated frame, with more aggressive side grip panels and checkered front and back straps. But they didn’t stop there. You’ll see that the optic footprint is now larger – which means even more options for your favorite red dot. The new STK from Rock Island Armory. Experience the power and precision of the rock today. https://www.armscor.com/stk-series