In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we’re joined by Mike O’Dell from CMMG for a deep dive into the products and innovation that have helped define CMMG’s place in the modern firearms industry. Known for their forward-thinking designs and modular platforms, CMMG continues to push boundaries while maintaining a strong focus on consistency and quality. Mike breaks down CMMG’s current product lineup, sharing insight into how their platforms are designed, how ideas move from concept to production, and what sets their approach apart in a competitive market. We talk about engineering decisions, manufacturing processes, and how user feedback plays a role in shaping new products. The conversation also explores how CMMG balances innovation with real-world practicality and long-term reliability. Beyond specific products, we discuss broader industry trends, how customer expectations are evolving, and what the future may hold for CMMG as technology and manufacturing continue to advance. Whether you’re an enthusiast, industry professional, or simply interested in how modern firearms are developed, this episode offers an inside look at the thinking behind the designs.

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we’re joined by Josh Hood from LayerX Suppression for a deep dive into modern suppressor design, real-world performance, and the manufacturing decisions that separate good products from great ones. As suppressor technology continues to evolve, LayerX has carved out a name by focusing on engineering, materials, and consistency at scale.

Josh breaks down the LayerX product lineup, with a detailed look at the Strake9, why it was designed the way it was, who it’s built for, and how it fits into today’s suppressor market. We also get into the weeds on manufacturing technology, machining processes, tolerances, and how advanced production methods directly impact performance, durability, and repeatability.

Beyond current products, the conversation turns toward the future of suppressor manufacturing. Josh shares his perspective on where the industry is headed, emerging trends in materials and design, and how consumer expectations are shaping the next generation of suppressors.

This episode is packed with insight for firearm enthusiasts, industry professionals, and anyone interested in suppressor technology, modern manufacturing, and the innovation driving the firearms industry forward.

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we’re joined by Steve Morgan from Primary Arms Optics for a deep dive into one of the most recognizable optics brands in the industry. We break down the full Primary Arms lineup, including the SLx, GLx, and PLx series, and discuss how each optic line is designed to meet the needs of different shooters, from entry-level enthusiasts to experienced professionals.

Steve explains what goes into optic design, including glass selection, reticle development, durability standards, and how Primary Arms approaches performance and value across red dots, prism optics, and magnified scopes. We also talk about how user feedback, real-world testing, and evolving shooting applications influence new product development.

To wrap things up, the conversation shifts toward the future of optics manufacturing, emerging technology, changing expectations from shooters, and where Steve believes modern rifle optics are headed next. Whether you’re researching your next optic or just want a behind-the-scenes look at how quality optics are made, this episode delivers insight, education, and industry perspective.

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we’re joined by Mark and Paul Foster of Fostech Inc. for a deep dive into firearms innovation, engineering, and what it takes to bring new ideas to market in today’s firearms industry.

Fostech has built a strong reputation for pushing boundaries through smart mechanical design and outside-the-box thinking. Mark and Paul share the story of how Fostech Inc. got its start, how their background in engineering and manufacturing shaped the company, and what it really takes to develop reliable firearms components from concept to production.

We talk about product development, testing, and the challenges of manufacturing in the United States, along with how Fostech approaches innovation in a crowded and competitive marketplace. The conversation also touches on industry trends, customer feedback, and how engineering-driven companies stay relevant as technology and consumer demands continue to evolve.

Whether you’re a firearms enthusiast, competitive shooter, industry professional, or someone interested in engineering and manufacturing, this episode offers an inside look at the people and processes behind Fostech Inc. It’s an honest, behind-the-scenes discussion about innovation, problem solving, and building products that stand out in the firearms world.

On this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we’re joined by Joe Farewell, a competitive shooter, instructor, and the driving force behind Farewell Firearms Training. Joe breaks down what it really takes to excel in competitive shooting, from mastering the fundamentals to developing the mindset, discipline, and training habits that separate top performers from the rest.

We explore Joe’s journey through the shooting sports, how he built his training company, and what shooters can expect when they attend his courses. Joe shares insights on improving speed, accuracy, efficiency, stage planning, movement, pistol and rifle skills, and how students at every experience level can make measurable progress. He also dives into gear selection, training routines, and the importance of building safe, repeatable skills.

Whether you’re stepping into your first match, refining your technique, or looking to level up with professional guidance, Joe’s knowledge offers clear, practical value. This conversation highlights the mindset of a dedicated competitor and the passion behind one of the most respected training programs in the shooting world.

Tune in for real world advice, industry insight, and a deeper look into what makes high-performance shooters successful.

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we’re joined by Todd Neice from Jacob Grey Firearms to talk about the company’s newest releases and the story behind their rapid growth in the industry. Todd walks us through the development of the NOX9, a ported and compensated 2011-style handgun designed for shooters who want smooth performance, modern construction, and attention to detail. He explains how the idea came together, what the design team prioritized, and what makes the NOX9 stand out in its category.

We also take a closer look at the HEX line, discussing the engineering background, machining quality, and the design philosophy that connects all Jacob Grey products. Todd shares insights on the company’s aerospace roots, their commitment to precision, and how those standards translate into the firearms they build today.

Along the way, we dive into the larger Jacob Grey story—how the brand started, what drives their team, and the vision behind their expanding lineup.

Whether you're interested in new product development, engineering-driven design, or the evolution of a modern firearms manufacturer, this episode delivers a clear and informative conversation. Tune in and enjoy the discussion.

In this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we sit down with Caleb Savant to talk about his recent trip to the Hat Creek Training Facility, where he spent time learning the fundamentals of long-range shooting and getting a first look at upcoming gear from SureFire. Caleb shares what the experience was like, the lessons that surprised him, and the essential equipment new shooters should consider when stepping into the long-range world.

We also dive into how proper instruction, foundational skills, and the right setup can make a huge difference in confidence and consistency behind the rifle. From optics choices and rifle fit to understanding your environment and building good habits, Caleb breaks down what helped him the most during training.

If you’re interested in long-range shooting, gear development, or behind-the-scenes insight from industry professionals, this conversation offers a relaxed, informative look at what it takes to get started and what Caleb learned along the way.

Join us for a deep dive into innovation with Travis Merkin, founder of Icarus Precision, as we explore one of the most influential companies in the performance-upgrade space. In this episode, Travis walks us through the design and development of the brand-new 311 grip module, a highly anticipated addition to the Icarus lineup. We discuss what inspired the 311, how its improved ergonomics and aluminum construction enhance shooter confidence, and why this module has quickly become a standout option for those looking to elevate their platform.

Travis also shares insight into the broader Icarus Precision product line, including the ACE Series and other premium grip modules engineered for everyday carry, competition shooting, and custom builds. We talk machining, design philosophy, user feedback, and what it takes to bring a high-performance component from concept to production.

If you’re passionate about custom pistols, metal grip modules, performance upgrades, P320 platforms, concealed carry improvements, precision machining, or the future of firearm accessories, this conversation delivers valuable insight straight from the creator himself.

This week on Whiskey & Windage, we sit down with Derek LeBlanc, founder of the Kids SAFE Foundation, to talk about his mission to educate kids and families about real firearm safety - not fear, not politics - just responsibility. Derek’s program has reached tens of thousands of young shooters and parents across the country, helping them understand the fundamentals of safe handling, proper unloading, range discipline, and respect for firearms.

We dive into why teaching firearm safety early matters, how to approach the topic with your kids, and what parents can do to make sure curiosity never turns into a tragedy. Derek shares stories from his hands-on training events, the lessons he’s learned working with families, and why education—not legislation—is the real solution for long-term safety.

This is one of those conversations that every gun owner, parent, or instructor should hear. Whether you’re new to the range or you’ve been around guns your whole life, Derek’s approach to teaching responsibility and respect hits home.

On this episode of Whiskey & Windage, we sit down with Vinny DeYarmon, the founder and mastermind behind Monsoon Tactical, one of the most innovative names in performance firearms machining. Known for precision cuts, elite slide work, accuracy-driven barrel systems, and custom firearm enhancements, Monsoon Tactical has earned a reputation for pushing platforms to their highest potential.

Vinny breaks down what true performance work looks like from precision tolerances and advanced machining techniques to understanding recoil dynamics, timing, and accuracy improvements. We talk about the rise of custom pistol work, what separates gimmicks from real performance upgrades, and why quality craftsmanship still matters in a world full of shortcuts.

We also dive into Vinny’s journey, what drives him as a builder, and how Monsoon Tactical continues to innovate within the high-performance firearms community. From enthusiast builds to duty-grade performance, this conversation highlights the mindset and skill behind elite gunsmithing and machining work.

Whether you're a shooter, builder, or firearm enthusiast, this episode is packed with insight, passion, and technical knowledge from one of the industry's best.