In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we sit down with special guest Michael Caughran, founder of American Reconstruction Concepts and former Air Force SERE instructor, to explore survival, escape, and evasion skills for everyday citizens. We cover everything from the Gray Man philosophy, situational awareness in urban environments, and the real priorities behind physical preparedness, to actionable ways anyone can start building mental resilience. I also share my own insights, challenges, and personal experiences when it comes to balancing preparedness, family life, and staying ready for the unexpected.

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HSM Ammunition: Quality-made, American ammo for training, hunting, and defense—find them at hsmammunition.com

On Site Firearms Training: Premier nationwide firearms and defensive training. Course offerings at oftllc.us

Mindset and resilience are the most crucial factors in any survival or self-defense situation.

The Gray Man concept is about blending in, being forgettable, and minimizing your risk profile in everyday life.

Technology like GPS, cell phones, and drones has dramatically changed both urban and wilderness evasion tactics.

Tactical positioning, situational awareness, and being proactive can help you avoid or escape dangerous situations in urban crowds or riots.

Simple preparedness upgrades—like specialized boot laces or a covert handcuff key—can be lifesavers in abduction scenarios.

Survival isn’t just about wilderness skills; practical urban escape and evasion techniques are vital for professionals, travelers, and everyday citizens.

Physical and spiritual preparedness can—and should—go hand in hand for a holistic approach to self-reliance.

The five basics of survival: personal protection, sustenance, communications, health, and travel.

Guest: Michael Caughran

survival skills, SERE instructor, Gray Man, urban evasion, self-reliance, personal defense, situational awareness, escape restraint, wilderness survival, mental resilience, American Reconstruction Concepts, preparedness, self-defense training, bug out bag, get home bag, emergency preparedness, urban survival, HSM Ammunition, On Site Firearms Training, Michael Karan, The Gun Experiment

In this episode, I sit down with Ben DeWalt of On Site Firearms Training and Erick Gelhaus of Cougar Mountain Solutions for an in-depth, no-nonsense discussion about firearms training, collaborative teaching, skill development, and the importance of a growth mindset on the range. Ben and Eric shared their experiences co-teaching pistol performance classes, how they balance speed and accuracy, the value of dry firing, and why ongoing education from other instructors is crucial for personal and professional growth.

We dove into everything from handling failure, identifying the most overrated gadgets in the gun world, to the role of ego in the firearms industry. Ben and Eric also highlighted why shotgun training is gaining traction, how to structure effective practice with time constraints, and the importance of adapting instructional methods to best serve students.

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HSM Ammunition – American-made, dependable ammo for shooters who demand consistency and reliability. Visit hsmammunition.com

Second Amendment Foundation – Defending your right to keep and bear arms through advocacy, education, and courtroom victories. Become a member at saf.org

Collaborative teaching improves the experience and adaptability for both students and instructors 04:03

Teaching plans should adapt to student needs, not stick rigidly to a curriculum 08:35

Speed and accuracy in marksmanship are both essential; practice should develop the balance between them 22:03

Recency of gun handling (dry practice) is more important than high-volume live fire for busy people 17:50

Failure on the range is part of growth; learn from it rather than engage in negative self-talk 27:19

Exposure to a range of teaching styles expands your ability to communicate and get through to different students 36:47

Shotgun training is increasingly valuable for areas with restrictive laws on other long guns 01:08:49

Most overrated piece of gear? Some say the shot timer—if you don’t know how to use it properly 01:15:59

Don’t fall for industry dogma—experiment, adapt, and find what really works for you 01:19:32

Stay vigilant: legislative threats to the Second Amendment are evolving, and urban/rural divides impact gun culture and rights 01:12:08

Ben DeWalt

Erick Gelhaus

firearms training, pistol skill development, shooting instruction, dry fire, live fire, gun safety, co-instructors, collaborative teaching, handgun accuracy, speed and accuracy, shooting drills, law enforcement firearms, concealed carry, marksmanship, Second Amendment, defensive shooting, gun class, training tips, gun culture, New York gun laws, Virginia assault weapon ban, instructor collaboration, 2A community, tactical training, shot timer, B8 target, mindset in shooting, failure in learning, adult learning methods, range drills, OFT, Cougar Mountain Solutions, Ben DeWalt, Eric Gelhaus, The Gun Experiment

On this episode of The Gun Experiment, we chop it up with our regular in-studio guest, Frank Riess from Wallkill River Small Arms. We kick things off with some banter, dive into the latest 2A news (including Supreme Court rulings on gun rights and self-defense for marijuana users), and nerd out on everything from ballistic helmets to the fascinating history behind the Browning Superposed shotgun and military bayonets. We debate bathroom etiquette for dads with daughters, discuss defensive display laws, and talk about why America might just be the best place to live—especially if you love freedom, firearms, and good bourbon.

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HSM Ammunition: American-made, reliable, accurate ammo for hunting, competitions, and tactical shooting. Find it at Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, and more.

Flatline Fiber Co.: Top-quality soft goods like slings, shooting bags, dump pouches, IFACs, and an unbeatable no-questions-asked warranty. Use code TGE10 for 10% off at Flatlinefiberco.com.

Kings River Customs: Premium custom 1911 pistols with unmatched craftsmanship. Order yours at kingsrivercustom.com.

Browning Superposed Shotgun: Frank delved into the history and impact of John Moses Browning’s last design, a revolutionary over-under shotgun that’s become a symbol of American gun craftsmanship.

Ballistic Helmets: We got hands-on with new Spartan Armor Systems ballistic helmets, discussed helmet sizing, and features for hunting, shooting, and tactical use.

Supreme Court Updates: The Supreme Court struck down the so-called "vampire rule" and ruled in favor of Second Amendment rights for marijuana users, setting important new legal precedents.

Microtech Knives: Frank highlighted the popularity and legalities of Microtech out-the-front knives for NY hunting and fishing.

Gun Shop Trends: Demand for some non-lethal self-defense options (like the Burner) has cooled, while collectors are currently all about revolvers, .22s, and specialty knives.

American Culture: Guests from around the world visiting the U.S. for the World Cup are loving the freedom and friendliness of American life.

Defensive Display Laws: We talked about the differences between menacing and brandishing, and why a defensive display could be a legal gray area.

Frank Reiss

Owner of Wallkill River Small Arms, Hudson Valley, NY

Expert in firearms history, retail, and tactical products

Friend of the show and regular in-studio guest

Gun podcast, Frank Risss, Wallkill River Small Arms, Firearms history, Browning Superposed, Ballistic helmets, Supreme Court gun rulings, Non-lethal self-defense, Microtech knives, 2A news, Custom 1911, HSM Ammunition, Flatline Fiber Co.,Kings River Customs, Defensive display law, American gun culture, Concealed carry, Gun rights, Self-defense, Hunting and shooting gear

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"Technology will not make up for technique."

Welcome to another episode of The Gun Experiment! Big Keith and I are joined by the legendary Clint Smith—a Marine Corps veteran, former law enforcement officer, and foundational icon in the world of firearms training. In this episode, we talk about transitions in life, the importance of mental conditioning in gunfighting, what keeps Clint coming back to the range, and his philosophy on gear versus technique.

From lessons learned at Thunder Ranch to adapting to smaller, more intimate classes in Wyoming, Clint shares wisdom on being a lifelong student, the responsibility of gun ownership, and why our brains are the most important weapon we have. If you’ve ever wondered how to age gracefully in this industry, how to stay relevant, or what it really takes to prepare for the unexpected, this is a can’t-miss conversation.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and share The Gun Experiment with your friends. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, YouTube, and Spotify to keep the conversation going. Drop us a review or comment, and let us know what topics or guests you want to hear next!

HSM Ammunition: Serious ammo for serious shooters, made in the USA. Check out hsmammunition.com.

OFT Firearms Training: Ben, Rachel, and the OFT crew offer top-notch training. Visit OFTLLC.us to find a class near you.

Tool vs. Technique: Technology and new gear can’t replace solid fundamentals and continued practice.

Teaching as a Lifelong Purpose: Sharing knowledge and seeing students’ lightbulb moments keep veteran instructors like Clint Smith returning to the range.

Mental Conditioning: The most critical factor in surviving a violent encounter is the space between your ears. Practicing verbal skills, scenario planning, and keeping calm under pressure are just as important as marksmanship.

Preparedness over Ego: Humility, logic, and self-reflection are vital both in life transitions and self-defense situations.

Community Unity: The biggest threat to the Second Amendment is infighting and lack of solidarity within the firearms community. Stay united, whether your interest is sporting clays or AR-15s.

Continuous Growth: There’s no room for laziness—keep learning, adapting, and contributing, no matter your age or stage in life.

Clint Smith is a Marine Corps veteran, former law enforcement officer, and legendary firearms instructor. He spent decades leading Thunder Ranch and now teaches in Cody, Wyoming through his Clint Smith Signature Series classes. Clint is also a prolific author, historian, and lifelong advocate for responsible gun ownership and training.

Find his current class schedule and updates at the Clint Smith Signature Series website (check the show notes for links).

Clint Smith interview

Thunder Ranch

firearms training

gun safety

gunfight mental conditioning

Second Amendment

AR-15 training

handgun training

personal protection

gun experiment podcast

HSM Ammunition

OFT Firearms Training

gun self-defense tips

responsible gun ownership

Cody Wyoming shooting classes

firearms instructor advice

gear vs. technique

situational awareness

self-defense preparedness

In this episode of The Gun Experiment, we sit down with Peter Tilem, Second Amendment attorney and bourbon buddy, to chop it up on the latest legal battles, gun rights issues, and regulatory absurdities coming out of New York and beyond. We cover the implications of the new so-called “Glock ban,” why courts are so slow to tackle assault weapon and magazine bans, and New York’s relentless push for tighter firearm regulations—including a new three-day waiting period. We also dive into free speech rights in schools, the expanding use of AI surveillance in cities, and the dangers of proposed hunting and fishing bans.

Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify

Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram   Youtube

Grab some cool TGE merch

[email protected]

Be sure to support our show sponsors; they are a big part of making the show possible.

HSM Ammunition: Trusted ammo for every shooting application. Available at Cabela’s, Bass Pro, Shields, and more. Check them out at hsmammunition.com

Spartan Armor Systems: Reliable, American-made body armor for armed citizens and law enforcement. Visit spartanarmorsystems.com for your personal protection needs.

New York’s “Glock ban” is more bark than bite but shows a continued legislative obsession with targeting gun owners.

Waiting periods and carry insurance bans in NY are likely unconstitutional and face tough legal challenges post-Bruen decision.

The courts are a slow, inefficient fix for bad laws—winning elections and being active in local politics is more effective.

Selective law enforcement (both liberal and conservative) is a slippery slope and citizens can’t always rely on prosecutorial discretion for protection.

Hunting and fishing rights are under political attack in some states—protecting these traditions requires active involvement and coalition-building.

Surveillance technology and AI in cities continue to advance rapidly—at the expense of personal privacy and freedom.

Peter Tilem

Founder of New York TAC Defense

Second Amendment attorney with Tilem & Associates

Learn more: newyorktacdefense.com

New York gun laws, Glock ban, Second Amendment attorney, New York TAC Defense, firearm waiting period, assault weapon ban, magazine ban, Supreme Court gun cases, law enforcement discretion, AI surveillance, hunting rights, school free speech, gun insurance ban, NY SAFE Act, Spartan Armor, HSM Ammunition, 2A legal defense, gun owner rights, podcast for shooters, gun regulation updates, Peter Tilem

In this episode, we sit down with Gage Moulding, the Vice President of HSM Ammunition, to talk about all things ammo. We dig deep into the science and consistency required to build truly reliable ammunition, the importance of family culture in a manufacturing business, and how real-world feedback from shooters shapes the products HSM produces. We also explore how the industry reacts to supply chain challenges, changing regulations, and technological advances. Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a hunter, or a casual range enthusiast, this episode delivers the kind of insider perspective you’ve always wanted on what it takes to put the highest quality rounds in your magazine.

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HSM Ammunition: Proudly made in the USA with tight quality control. Check them out at hsmammunition.com or your local sporting goods store.

OnSight Firearms Training (OFT): Real-world defensive shooting instruction by pros who walk the walk. Find a course that meets your needs at OFTLLC.us

Modern factory ammo can rival handloads in consistency and performance due to advanced quality control systems.

HSM’s company culture is built around family values and customer service, ensuring your concerns are addressed by real experts.

Longevity among employees (loaders with 17+ years at HSM) brings unmatched institutional knowledge and consistent manufacturing processes.

Supply chain disruptions (especially for powder and primers) remain the industry's biggest challenge. Preparedness (safety stock) is essential.

Real-world feedback from hunters, competitors, and law enforcement directly influences new product development at HSM.

Ammunition price increases reflect rising costs across the board, not higher profits for manufacturers.

Not all calibers are created equal—find out why .44 Magnum is underrated and the myth behind "just fill it to the top" when reloading.

Name: Gage Moulding

Position: Vice President, HSM Ammunition

Background: Former Army Officer, extensive experience in manufacturing and distribution, passionate about hunting, fishing, and shooting sports.

ammunition manufacturing, HSM Ammunition, ammo quality control, factory ammo vs handloads, competitive shooting, hunting ammo, family business, American-made ammo, ammo supply chain, powder shortage, shooting sports, reloading myths, gun industry trends, best rifle ammo, premium projectiles, .44 Magnum, subsonic ammunition

In this episode, we sit down with Patrick Diedrich, the content director for Recoil Off Grid and a true outdoors and survival enthusiast. We chop it up about everything from homesteading inspiration and turning failures into learning opportunities, to behind-the-scenes stories from big events like Can-con, Amazonian adventures, and the quirkiest things we've eaten (including my encounter with balut!). We also weigh in on some hot 2A news, the ongoing cost-of-living debate, and our takes on DEI in the workplace. Plus, we tackle listener questions and debate the best places in the U.S. to homestead (tornadoes, ticks, and all).

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HSM Ammunition – Trusted by hunters, competitors, and everyday shooters alike. Check out their offerings for superior reliability and ballistic performance at hsmammunition.com

Second Amendment Foundation – Defending your right to keep and bear arms for over 50 years. Support their cause at saf.org

Real-world experience and embracing failure are essential to mastering survival and preparedness.

The gun community can learn a lot from discussing both our successes and shortcomings.

The Can-con event featured not just guns, but off-grid skills like field dressing and chicken processing—sometimes requiring last-minute improvisation!

Laws and regulations may influence firearm sales, but cultural and market forces play a huge part.

Survival doesn’t have to mean “hardcore only”—don’t ignore modern tools and comforts when they make sense.

DEI policies, hiring practices, and accountability in leadership sparked some spirited debate.

The best place to homestead isn't just about price—natural disasters and local culture matter, too.

Exotic foods like freshwater stingray and balut make for wild stories and lasting bonds!

Patrick Diedrich

Content Director at Recoil Off Grid

Survival skills adventurer and journalist

Follow his adventures and insights at offgridweb.com and on social media

Gun experiment, podcast, Patrick Diedrich, Recoil Off Grid, survival, preparedness, Cancon, firearm news, machine gun laws, gun regulations, DEI, Second Amendment, HSM Ammunition, off-grid skills, homesteading, tornado alley, cheapest places to live, Ballute, exotic foods, Amazon adventure, field dressing, outdoor skills, tactical training, self-reliance, gun sales trends, modern survival, 2A news, concealed carry

In this episode, we sit down with Oregon-based artisan knife maker Levi Walusiak, owner of Lucky Walusiak Creations. We dive into the world of custom knife making, exploring the importance of quality craftsmanship, design philosophy, and what truly sets a great blade apart from the rest. We geek out over his most unique products (from blood straws to badass pizza cutters), geek out about materials and steel choices, and even swap classic family knife stories. If you’ve ever wondered what goes into building a reliable, functional, and beautiful blade—or you’re just a fan of cool gear—this episode is for you.

Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com

Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify

Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram Youtube

Grab some cool TGE merch

Ask us anything at [email protected]

Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They’re a big part of making the show possible.

HSM Ammunition: Serious ammo for serious shooters. Made in the USA, trusted by real shooters. Check them out at hsmammunition.com

On Site Firearms Training: OFT has experienced instructors offering high-quality firearms training across the country. Visit OFTLLC.us for their course lineup.

The difference between a good and a great knife often comes down to durability, edge retention, and thoughtful design tailored to real-world use.

Custom knives are a labor of love—making one can take several days and involve intricate processes from material selection to heat treatment and handle shaping.

Levi Walusiak balances both artistry and usability, frequently experimenting with new materials, splatter paint designs, and even wild kitchen tools (like pizza cutters and ice cream scoops).

Regular knife maintenance—including proper sharpening and stropping—is crucial, and even high-end blades need TLC to perform at their best.

The custom knife market has a thriving mix of collector and hard-use pieces, and Levi Walusiak's philosophy is to make his blades to be used, offering a lifetime warranty and free sharpening.

Levi Walusiak

Instagram

Website

custom knives, knife maker, Levi Walusiak, Lucky Walusiak Creations, artisan blades, knife craftsmanship, Oregon knives, sharpest knives, blade design, knife materials, folding knives, fixed blade, custom kitchen tools, splatter paint knives, knife maintenance, HSM Ammunition, On Site Firearms Training, gun podcast, The Gun Experiment, quality steel, knife sharpening, unique knives, handmade knives, tactical knives, collector knives, hard-use knives

In this episode of The Gun Experiment, Big Keith and I team up for another round of Chopping It Up, joined by our returning guest, Todd Meeks, CEO of Spartan Armor Systems. We kick things off with some lighthearted stories before diving deep into the world of body armor, ballistic helmets, and evolving safety solutions for civilians, first responders, and law enforcement. We cover industry trends, product innovations, and relevant 2A news, as well as some wild stories about modern espionage, tech surveillance, and an epic Revolutionary War history lesson. Whether you’re a firearms enthusiast, law enforcement officer, or just want to stay informed on personal protection and news, this episode has something for you.

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HSM Ammunition – Reliable ammo with a broad selection, including defensive and cowboy action rounds.

Kings River Customs– Hand-built, reliable, and beautiful 1911 pistols from Arkansas, the 1911 capital of the world.

The prevalence and necessity of body armor isn’t just for the military; civilians and first responders are increasingly recognizing its value.

New product developments at Spartan Armor include ultra-lightweight ballistic helmets made in the USA, thanks to a partnership with Armor Source.

Expiration dates on body armor are real, especially for ceramics and composites, particularly under extreme temperature conditions.

The civilian body armor market is slowing down, with more focus shifting to government, law enforcement, and first responder contracts.

News on 2A rights: Possible changes in USPS handgun shipping regulations and an active DOJ civil rights campaign for the Second Amendment.

Concerns about modern surveillance technology, including insect-like drones, highlight the ongoing importance of personal privacy and freedom.

An intriguing look at Revolutionary War history, including the Hudson River Chain, showcases American ingenuity and defense.

Todd Meeks

gun podcast, body armor, Spartan Armor Systems, Todd Meeks, ballistic helmet, personal protection, ceramic plates, steel plates, 2A news, Second Amendment, USPS handgun shipping, DOJ assault weapons ban, law enforcement, first responders, civilian safety, Kevlar, tactical gear, made in the USA, Kings River Customs, HSM Ammunition, modern surveillance, China espionage, bug drone, Revolutionary War history, Hudson River Chain, civil unrest, home defense.

In this episode, Keith and I sit down with Jack Daniel, Director of Training at Thunder Ranch, to dive deep into the art and science of firearms training. Drawing on his 19-year law enforcement career specializing in patrol, narcotics, and SWAT leadership, Jack shares the lessons he's carried into civilian training and the mindset shifts required when moving from law enforcement to teaching civilians.

Jack unpacks the importance of individualized instruction, the role of leadership on the range, and how Thunder Ranch continues to evolve its training doctrines post-Clint Smith. We explore everything from dry fire best practices and common student “training scars,” to crucial live fire drills and the value of pressure-tested mindset and mechanics.

We also discuss what makes Thunder Ranch stand out among firearms training facilities, gear failures to avoid, and Jack’s approach to realistic defensive encounters. Plus, Jack shares his rapid-fire insights on overhyped training trends, fist fighting myths, and the most overlooked piece of carry gear—all while giving listeners actionable advice to elevate their skills.

Join our mailing list: Thegunexperiment.com

Subscribe and leave us a comment on Apple or Spotify

Follow us on all of our social media: Instagram   Youtube

Grab some cool TGE merch

Ask us anything at [email protected]

Be sure to support the sponsors of the show. They’re a big part of making the show possible.

HSM Ammunition: Precision you can trust, American made performance. Learn more at hsmammunition.com

Onsite Firearms Training (OFT): Practical, no-nonsense, results-driven training. Check out courses at oftllc.us

Flatline Fiberco: Industry-leading soft goods for durability, comfort, and mission readiness. Shop at flatlinefiberco.com with promo code TGE10 for 10% off

Leadership and mentorship are essential for new and experienced shooters (07:03).

Every class at Thunder Ranch is customized—no cookie-cutter training, all individualized focus (08:12).

Mechanical “scars” like unnecessary motion and bad reload habits are common even in experienced shooters (19:43).

Dry fire is valuable, but be mindful of ingraining poor habits; in-person instruction is irreplaceable (22:40).

The best live fire drill: Draw and fire one round with precision under a realistic time constraint (38:09).

Thunder Ranch’s efficiency, world-class facility, and a culture of humility among instructors make it unique (51:17).

Mindset often breaks down first unless pressure-tested; mechanics and mindset must both be trained (42:38).

Maintenance and correct installation of gear prevents failures, even with high-end equipment (59:01).

The ranch’s foundation is solid—innovation continues while honoring Clint Smith’s legacy (46:41).

Jack Daniel

Former Oregon law enforcement officer (SWAT lieutenant, patrol, narcotics, training)

Nearly two decades experience in real-world operations

Full-time instructor and Director of Training at Thunder Ranch, one of America’s most respected firearms facilities

Passionate about individualized, logic-driven coaching and evolving defensive training doctrines

Thunder Ranch Website

Thunder Ranch, firearms training, Jack Daniel, gun instruction, SWAT leadership, law enforcement, civilian firearms classes, dry fire, live fire drills, trigger control, mindset, gun safety, mechanical breakdown, training scars, defensive pistol, concealed carry, gear failures, Clint Smith, Oregon gun range, gun experiment podcast, shooting techniques, tourniquet, rapid fire, firearm maintenance, realistic gunfighting, shooting accuracy, gun community