November 29, 2024 • 22 mins
Welcome to HeadHunters NW Podcast! I'm Shaylene Keiner, an executive recruiter with a passion for the global defense, small arms and shooting sectors. Join me as I sit down with top executives and industry leaders to dive deep into the world of global manufacturing, service companies, non-profits and more. Together, we explore the latest trends, innovations, and the inspiring stories behind the people who drive this dynamic industry forward. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just curious about what makes this world tick, you're in for engaging conversations that go beyond the surface. Let's uncover the fascinating stories and insights that shape the global defense, small arms and shooting sectors. Subscribe now and become a part of our community!
In this episode of the HeadHunters NW Podcast, Shaylene welcomes Joshua Boomgaarden, the owner of Breek Arms. They discuss Joshua's journey from growing up near Beaver Creek, Minnesota, through starting his business, Breek Arms, which specializes in firearm accessories like the Warhammer and Sledgehammer charging handles. Joshua details how his passion for firearms led him to create innovative products and secure significant contracts, helping his company grow exponentially. They also touch on Breek Arms' participation in SHOT Show, the importance of corporate culture, future plans, and their commitment to community support and customer satisfaction. Tune in for an inspiring story of entrepreneurship and dedication in the firearms industry.
Website: https://breekarms.com/
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Shaylene (00:00):
Okay, welcome to HeadHunters NW podcast.
I am, I'm very honored tohave Joshua on this call.
Joshua Boomgaarden is the owner of BreekArms and I admit I am thrilled that
they reached out to me so I could atleast get familiar with them, but I'm
(00:22):
so excited to have you, Joshua, on here.
Another small business of someonethat's passionate about Our products.
And it's growing, growing like crazy.
So welcome Joshua.
Joshua (00:35):
Yeah.
Thanks Shaylene.
Appreciate you having me on the podcast.
Shaylene (00:39):
Well, now you guys are on your LinkedIn profile.
It says you guys are Sioux Falls,South Dakota, because that's
what's closest to you, right?
We're in Beaver Creek, Minnesota.
Joshua (00:52):
Yep.
Right across the border.
Shaylene (00:54):
And it is, I had never heard of Beaver Creek until
then, and I just had no idea.
You were so close.
I could just zip, zip over therewhen I was in South Dakota four or
five hours and I'd be right there.
Joshua (01:05):
Swing on through.
Yeah.
That's how
Shaylene (01:08):
Midwest is, right.
Joshua (01:10):
That's right.
Yep.
It's metropolis.
It's 300 people.
So it's pretty huge.
We've my biggest accomplishment is singlehandedly growing the population like 1.
3 percent with four kids.
Shaylene (01:25):
Oh, because you're four kids.
That's funny.
So
Joshua (01:28):
did
Shaylene (01:30):
you grow up there or?
What did you come there?
Joshua (01:34):
I grew up in a small town not far, about three miles from here.
And I went to school in Luverne,Minnesota and, and moved to
Beaver after, after college.
And my wife and I havejust stayed here since.
Shaylene (01:47):
That's great.
And you, how did you come tostart up a company like this?
Breek Arms.
Tell us about the name and tell us how youdecided, hey, I'm gonna, I'm gonna start
a company that's related to fireArms.
Joshua (02:01):
Sure.
Yeah.
I mean, I have, my story probably isn'tas spectacular as some, but I mean, I went
to college and I got a, I got a businessdegree and I worked at a couple different
jobs, worked as a ag lender, a lot ofag around here, but I'd had a huge, you
know, huge passion for, for fireArms.
(02:21):
I grew up.
Shooting with my dad and my brother.
And so I just really, I had, you know, Ireally wanted to get into the industry.
I guess I didn't, andI started really slow.
I, I, you know, just bounce productsto, to sell wholesale through my website
and, and I just took off from there.
And really once we kindof got our first idea.
(02:44):
And machined.
That's really whenthings start taking off.
That's great.
I'm not a huge, I'm nota huge academia nut.
I don't think I probably could have triedharder in school, but, you know, I, all
I really learned was that I just wantedto do what I wanted to do, I suppose.
Shaylene (03:03):
Now see, now you are qualified to be a bit, so I think any business
owner listening right now is probablylaughing because I know that I've
worked for met in the industry that isa small business or a founder and owner.
They all say, well, because itjust takes that it just takes
that gumption, you know, to reallyhammer it out and get it done.
Joshua (03:27):
Yeah, that sure has.
I mean, we came with,we came at a good time.
Like I think, well, we started this,I started with the seven years ago.
And, and I mean, five years ago,the industry was booming, so it
created a lot of opportunities.
And so we, we securedpretty key contracts.
So, you know, got outthere and secured some.
Big contracts, whichreally is how we launched.
(03:49):
And we're able to hire the team thatwe have now to do what we can do.
So you'd think for all like, yeah, weare I mean, pretty much doubled in the
last three years, every single year ina row, so teams got up 11 people on it.
And it's funny, cause you'd think froma small town and some of our workers
are remote, but in a small town, likeyou'd think your pool of people would be.
(04:12):
It is a lot less, but I mean, youget people a good a good vision.
I think they, they can do a lot of good.
So we found a lot of goodpeople here in this town,
Shaylene (04:23):
probably one of the biggest employers in the area.
Now
Joshua (04:26):
we, in this town, we are pretty close.
I think we might be, we'reclose to the number one.
Shaylene (04:32):
I love that though.
That's a great American story.
I mean, that's what America's made up ofour businesses like yours and mine and the
people that I get to meet and talk with.
It's the gumption ofgood American farmers.
You're right there in the middle of them.
Joshua (04:46):
Yep.
That's right.
Shaylene (04:48):
Let's talk about your products.
So people know what, you know, if yougo to breekArms.com, if you're listening
to this or you're, you know, watchingthe video, we'll put the link below, but
tell us about what people are going tofind when they go to your website and
what tools that they can buy from you.
Joshua (05:05):
Sure.
So we are, Known mostly for our flagshipitem called the Warhammer charging handle.
That's really was our firstproduct we launched as Breek Arms.
And then we recently launched a, anothercharging handle called the Sledgehammer,
which is more, it's more of a gas busting,like suppressed for suppressed shooters.
(05:26):
I mean, it can be used for standardARs as well that are unsuppressed,
but those are kind of the two productsthat, that run most of our business.
And we, I think it's beenabout five years now and we're
moving them quite, quite a few.
So we just started workingon a product called the Brie
clock we launched last year.
(05:47):
We're going to be relaunchingit again at SHOT Show.
So what it is, it's a quickattach, suppressor mount.
Yeah, I saw that.
So it's one of the light, it is thelightest one on the market and one of
the quicker attaching ones and detaching.
Shaylene (06:03):
Yeah.
Joshua (06:03):
And we've kind of solved a couple of the issues that the market has with
they call it carbon lock is a big one.
So if you shoot so manyrounds, the thing just, Kind of
solidifies to your muzzle device.
Yeah.
So we've kind of defeated that problem.
And then just the, the weight andthe simplicity of machine And that's
really our biggest thing is tryingto keep things as simple as possible
(06:24):
and affordable and machinable.
So.
Shaylene (06:26):
Well, if you're making suppressors right now,
you're, you know, you might aswell be printing money, right?
Yeah.
You know, wet make needthis, we don't make
Joshua (06:38):
compressors.
Yeah.
Shaylene (06:38):
Right.
But you, or.
But the people like me who have purchasedsuppressors, we need that, that product
that you have, and that's pretty special.
So there should be a lot of those needed.
Joshua (06:51):
Yep.
Yeah.
We expect people who gotall the direct thread stuff.
In their in their mailbox.
I guess you don't suppressors in themailbox, but from your epithel That
they're going to need a quick attach.
Shaylene (07:04):
That's right.
Joshua (07:04):
So we'll be there for those people.
Shaylene (07:07):
That's right This is a very important thing and I know
there's not just me that haspicked up extra suppressors So
hopefully there's even more soon.
So who knows what's going to happenwith our legalities, but boy, I I
that hearing protection There's noreason we couldn't all be using that
Joshua (07:24):
Yeah, it does help.
I think it just givesshooters a better experience,
especially first time shooters.
I mean, you don't have like even, Imean, my wife, for example, like she's
way more comfortable picking up theexact same rifle and shooting it with
a suppressor than she is unsuppressed.
I think it's just going to, you know,It's going to blow up the industry as a
(07:44):
whole when people see that or when peopleexperience or have a lot better experience
when they're shooting for the first time.
And it really is addicting.
So, yeah.
Shaylene (07:53):
Yeah.
And that is a great an important part thatyou're selling that I wasn't even aware
of until I did a little more research.
And what else can peoplepurchase on Breek Arms?
Joshua (08:04):
So those are kind of our two main items.
We do have a line of hand guards, sowe do a wedge style lock up hangar,
which is, it's one of the lighterweight ones out there on the market.
It's an affordable option for guyswho, and we do, we do a lot of
custom OEM work for, for companies.
So that's kind of our main business.
(08:26):
It's not necessarily end consumer.
Shaylene (08:29):
Okay.
Joshua (08:30):
Yeah, we do custom mobile devices, custom hand guards,
and we have started getting intocustom charging handles as well.
So
Shaylene (08:38):
that's really good to know.
And a lot of our audiences isour industry and executives that
are running other companies.
So it's really good toknow you guys do that.
I really didn't, don'tthink I realized that.
That's great.
Joshua (08:53):
We, we have a branch called Brick Manufacturing.
We don't, it's not really marketed.
It's just kind of a separate branchfrom Breek Arms, but we do have a lot
of contract engineering with companies.
So like our big thing is we, we,and I think what really sets us
apart is kind of the, with therelationship building that we have
and the trust we build with people.
(09:13):
So, you know, we've got, we kindof do the, like, what's the old, I
mean, you said you what's the oldadage where you say over, sorry.
Over promise.
Over deliver.
Yes, I know that's, I know that's wrong.
And I intentionally say that wrong.
Under promise.
Under promise.
Shaylene (09:27):
Under promise and over deliver.
Joshua (09:29):
Not at break.
We over promise.
And we over deliver.
Shaylene (09:33):
And you over deliver.
Okay.
I like that.
Well, that's, you know, that'sthe good Midwestern values.
You know, you just meet good people.
And that's great to know aboutthe OEM manufacturing, the
custom manufacturing 'cause.
It's, it's tough to find theright partners and it sounds
like you're a good company.
People can reach out to you andthey're going to get, you know,
(09:54):
one or one of two or three of you.
I mean, it's not like there's700 they have to sift through,
Joshua (10:00):
right?
Shaylene (10:01):
They're going to get right to you.
Joshua (10:03):
That's correct.
Yeah.
We have a few engineers on the teamand so we just, we want to give or help
them develop and refine their idea.
And give give some freshsolutions or advice or expertise
to help support their project.
So, we really are just in it tohelp, well, obviously make money,
but help as well as their own.
(10:25):
So,
Shaylene (10:25):
do you you said you're going to shot show now, do
you guys have a booth there?
Are you at the supplier showcase or wheredo you guys just have a have an area?
Joshua (10:34):
So the, this year we decided to go to the Range Day.
Ooh.
The new Range Day is now at,apparently is at Prairie Fire.
Shaylene (10:46):
Oh,
Joshua (10:46):
okay.
Great.
So Monday, we'll have a booth there.
Shaylene (10:48):
Oh.
Range Day.
So great.
Oh, that's such a great event.
But bring your coat in a hat.
It's always cold.
Joshua (10:56):
Yeah, it's the desert, but yeah,
Shaylene (10:57):
yeah.
Joshua (10:59):
So, yeah, we'll be working with 5150 rifles.
And they are, they've got a40, I think, 40 foot base.
So we'll be in their bay.
We'll also have a boothunderneath the tent.
To kind of showcase our product.
But if you want to shoot it, obviously youcan go to the shooting lane and shooter.
So we're excited to do that.
Shaylene (11:20):
That's great.
Media can get you there and they can getall kinds of original content and they
can check out the product firsthand.
Joshua (11:31):
Yeah.
We're excited to do it.
I think previous years we've went to theshow, but and have had a ton of success.
Last year we didn't attend as a anexhibitor, but we just tended to kind
of touch base with a lot of customers.
But this year we're going to trysomething a little different.
I know 5150, they've beenpretty pivotal in that step.
So
Shaylene (11:51):
great.
And then after on Monday, after you guysare done with the range day, you'll be
around shot show that if someone wantedto meet with you, they could reach out
ahead of time and make an appointment.
You guys will be around.
Joshua (12:05):
Correct.
Yep.
You can reach I mean, if you,obviously there's a contact page on
our website and you can email us atsales at Breek Arms and Eben will
triage you to the correct person.
So, yeah, absolutely.
We're open to
Shaylene (12:19):
this will be
Joshua (12:20):
yes.
Shaylene (12:21):
Good.
This will be going livein the end of November.
So, you know, SHOT Showis like just a blink away.
It takes no time at allfor it to be SHOT Show.
Once we hit November, it's like a blur.
Joshua (12:34):
Yep.
Yeah.
If we don't have our productready now, it won't be ready.
So
Shaylene (12:38):
that's right.
Now let's talk about your companyand the culture a little bit.
It sounds like a smallgroup, a nice group.
Obviously you guys are putting customersfirst and looking for solutions.
And when someone is interested inyour company and maybe you know,
might want to come to work there.
I know you've gotten some helprecently with marketing and
that'll probably continue to grow.
(13:00):
Are there any, any positions youthink you're going to be looking
for in the near future or howdoes that work at your place?
Joshua (13:07):
Yep.
So we have, again, we have like ourteam is about 11 people which is the
biggest we've ever been and with theacademy, you know, people, I guess
with the regime change, people areprobably a little less scared now.
So yeah, I mean, we're always open toseeing if, if somebody is interested
in working with us and seeing if theirtalent can kind of fit a niche that we
(13:32):
aren't fulfilling, but yeah, I mean, that
Shaylene (13:34):
the culture is growing.
Joshua (13:35):
Right.
Yep.
Yep.
So we're, we're hoping to get a little bitmore efficient and, and really utilize our
team to the fullest extent that we can.
But, you know, that's just our, I thinkto answer your first question, the culture
here, I suppose we, so a big thing forthis, or at least for me is is people.
(13:57):
So I think it's like Walt Disneyor somebody, Walt Disney, I don't
think we should give him creditfor it, but he said, he said,
people first, perfection second.
So, for us, it's important to reallyput time in, not only our employees,
but customers, put them first,
Shaylene (14:16):
you put 'em ahead of yourself, and that's what it takes.
And when you're, you know, you're workingwith a small team, it takes everybody.
I mean, that's great.
That's really great.
I know whenever I've reached out toyou guys, our interactions, it's been
immediate, you know, just really greatcommunication all the way around.
So honestly, it does start with that.
Joshua (14:37):
Starts with people and then we get, we get stuff done.
So we've got a really dynamic team.
I think it's, it's really helpedus capture a lot of business
Shaylene (14:47):
now, do you guys, on your product, I know you can, you have
a website and you can consumers canpurchase things from you directly, right?
Joshua (14:56):
They can, yep.
Shaylene (14:56):
Okay.
And then do you guys also sell todistributors and wholesalers and sell Yes.
Joshua (15:03):
Dealers.
We do have a program for dealers.
We have, we have a program fordealers, wholesalers, online retailers.
We do encourage people to go to their,we encourage the dealers to go to the
distributors and we encourage the endconsumer to go to the online retailers.
We really want to support ourpartners in, in that endeavor.
(15:23):
So,
Shaylene (15:24):
so your dealers, if you were if you're an FFL and you're interested
in their products, then they can justfill out the form on your website
and someone will reach out to them.
Joshua (15:36):
Correct.
Yep.
Shaylene (15:37):
And the same with distribution if you're in purchasing or anything else
of course all those people will be atShacho, but you guys were also at nesgw.
I don't remember.
Joshua (15:49):
Yes.
We were
Shaylene (15:50):
the big Wholesalers, so you were Great.
Joshua (15:55):
Yeah, is that where we met?
I can't remember.
Was it the nsw last year?
Shaylene (16:00):
I don't know where we met.
I can't remember where we met if wemet, but I know we talked before NASGW.
Joshua (16:06):
Okay.
And
Shaylene (16:07):
we were going to meet at NASGW and I ended up not being
able to go at the last minute.
So I think that's on me.
That's why you thought that.
Yeah.
But I mean, there's the thing is,you know, the wholesalers and the
distributors, that's a great showfor that because they can, you can
actually have a conversation and meetwith them there and talk with them.
Joshua (16:29):
Yeah, it is my favorite show, for sure.
It, it's, I guess I'm not, I'm lessI don't drink as much Red Bull as I
used to, so I think calm, collective,
Shaylene (16:40):
not
Joshua (16:41):
funny anymore, so.
Shaylene (16:42):
That's because now NASGW is a break for you from your four children.
Joshua (16:49):
Don't tell my wife.
It's work, okay?
She thinks it's work, so.
Shaylene (16:54):
It is work.
It is work, but when you havefour young children, anything
is a break once in a while.
Joshua (17:00):
That's true.
That is 100 percent fact, yes.
Shaylene (17:03):
Well, what's on the horizon for Breek Arms?
Where do you, where do you asthe owner want to see it go?
And where do you, whatare you guys hoping to do?
What are some of the goalsthat you can share with us?
Joshua (17:14):
So I think on a product level, we're going to continue to push to
kind of suppressor ready accessories.
We aren't making suppressorsand we won't make suppressors.
I think there's a lot of roomand this is where we fit best is.
figuring out how to make the platformswork with suppressors that were
(17:36):
intentionally designed to do that.
So, you know, we've got afew products in the works.
You know, we have a lot of time and moneyspent in R and D to, to get those things
kind of off the ground and then not evenmentioning marketing dollars on it all.
But so we're going to try andwe're really going to focus on
the Breek Lok this next year.
(17:58):
And a sledgehammer.
And I think those will be twopretty successful products for us.
Yeah.
And yeah, kind of launches as timeand time allows and capital allows it.
So we'll continue to support our, ourcustomers that we have contracts with.
On their design ideas and we're excited.
We love doing it.
We're excited to do it So that'sI think from a product level.
(18:20):
That's where we'll we'll be forthe I think for the Support for I
would like really like and we doBreek Arms is is a big driver for
the community and, and our church.
So we want to continue to help people.
That's my biggest goal for the company.
I know 5150 there.
(18:41):
I just gotta give them a little plug.
Okay.
Cause
Shaylene (18:44):
yeah, any plug.
They're very
Joshua (18:45):
inspirational.
Shaylene (18:46):
That's great.
Joshua (18:47):
I'm going to get you on, I'm gonna get Keith on here too.
But he, that's how he started out.
He actually started out by, he would, hewould make himself, he would build rifles
for victims or just to thank veterans.
And over the last 10 years, he'sI think it's, he says 250 grand is
(19:08):
what he's raised for 12 charities.
And just certain people who've,who've had, you know, like there
was a shooting in Texas and fiveof the police officers died.
So he got tens of thousands of dollars,you know, given to those families.
And so he's been pretty inspirational.
(19:28):
In the process.
So, yeah, I think there'sa ton of good we can do.
I think that's kind of what, at leastmy idea of what business should be is,
is really to help people and help, andeven just internally help our employees
well, you're
Shaylene (19:41):
setting it, you're setting the bar for them for one thing.
I mean, you're setting an example andhelping people realize they can keep
growing and keep, keep furtheringtheir careers and their personal lives.
That's really exciting, Joshua,because not everyone thinks of that.
And it sounds like I definitely needto meet this Keith guy because I
(20:02):
don't know him and I don't know 5150,but I definitely need to know them.
And it sounds like, sodoes everybody else.
What a great human.
Joshua (20:10):
Well, and they, and the thing is like they're crushing,
they're crushing it too.
I mean, they've, they've developedsuch great IP, their rifles are great.
They have, and, and thatbusiness is exploding.
And I think it's just, it's just atestament to, I mean, when you do
good for people, like, You get good.
And so, so yeah, it's cool.
Shaylene (20:33):
That's not everyone, but most people, this is, this is why we love
this industry because they, they wraptheir Arms around you as a business,
even your competitors, and then, andthen they go a step further and they
say, what can I do for your family?
Can I write a letter of recommendationfor your child for college?
You know, we're having a sponsorship.
(20:54):
I mean, a scholarship.
Would you like your kids to participate?
I mean, that's this industry.
It really, it really is like that.
People just are surprised when they hearme say that, but you're, you know it.
Yeah, it's true.
They're amazing.
Joshua (21:08):
It's true.
Yeah.
In the last five years, the trade,like, you know, we're going to the
same trade shows, we see the samepeople and it's, it's hilarious,
the relationships that you build.
And I say hilarious because they're fun.
They're fun people.
They're just like you and me.
And, and they all have familiesand they, they just want, they're
just, they're just got pure hearts.
(21:29):
It's kind of cool.
Shaylene (21:31):
And they, they want to do good business and they want to
do the right thing and they wantto have a good time doing it.
And they want to supportreally family values.
Really is it?
It's a great place to be.
Well, I'm just honored, just honoredthat you would do this with me.
And I cannot thank you enoughfor being on the podcast.
(21:52):
I think people need to knowabout these businesses.
They need to know about Breek Arms.
So breekarms.Com And you should checkout their products and if you're at shot
show You guys you need to call joshuaand you need to hook up and say hey How
can we partner for custom manufacturingbecause this company is going to go
places and you want to be on this train?
(22:14):
So thank you Joshua so muchfor being on the podcast.
Joshua (22:19):
Yeah, you're welcome Thanks for having me, Shaylene.
Shaylene (22:22):
And that'll be it for this podcast with HeadHunters NW.
Thank you for listening.
Can't wait to talk to you again next time.
Okay, welcome to HeadHunters NW podcast.
I am, I'm very honored tohave Joshua on this call.
Joshua Boomgaarden is the owner of BreekArms and I admit I am thrilled that
they reached out to me so I could atleast get familiar with them, but I'm
(00:22):
so excited to have you, Joshua, on here.
Another small business of someonethat's passionate about Our products.
And it's growing, growing like crazy.
So welcome Joshua.
Joshua (00:35):
Yeah.
Thanks Shaylene.
Appreciate you having me on the podcast.
Shaylene (00:39):
Well, now you guys are on your LinkedIn profile.
It says you guys are Sioux Falls,South Dakota, because that's
what's closest to you, right?
We're in Beaver Creek, Minnesota.
Joshua (00:52):
Yep.
Right across the border.
Shaylene (00:54):
And it is, I had never heard of Beaver Creek until
then, and I just had no idea.
You were so close.
I could just zip, zip over therewhen I was in South Dakota four or
five hours and I'd be right there.
Joshua (01:05):
Swing on through.
Yeah.
That's how
Shaylene (01:08):
Midwest is, right.
Joshua (01:10):
That's right.
Yep.
It's metropolis.
It's 300 people.
So it's pretty huge.
We've my biggest accomplishment is singlehandedly growing the population like 1.
3 percent with four kids.
Shaylene (01:25):
Oh, because you're four kids.
That's funny.
So
Joshua (01:28):
did
Shaylene (01:30):
you grow up there or?
What did you come there?
Joshua (01:34):
I grew up in a small town not far, about three miles from here.
And I went to school in Luverne,Minnesota and, and moved to
Beaver after, after college.
And my wife and I havejust stayed here since.
Shaylene (01:47):
That's great.
And you, how did you come tostart up a company like this?
Breek Arms.
Tell us about the name and tell us how youdecided, hey, I'm gonna, I'm gonna start
a company that's related to fireArms.
Joshua (02:01):
Sure.
Yeah.
I mean, I have, my story probably isn'tas spectacular as some, but I mean, I went
to college and I got a, I got a businessdegree and I worked at a couple different
jobs, worked as a ag lender, a lot ofag around here, but I'd had a huge, you
know, huge passion for, for fireArms.
(02:21):
I grew up.
Shooting with my dad and my brother.
And so I just really, I had, you know, Ireally wanted to get into the industry.
I guess I didn't, andI started really slow.
I, I, you know, just bounce productsto, to sell wholesale through my website
and, and I just took off from there.
And really once we kindof got our first idea.
(02:44):
And machined.
That's really whenthings start taking off.
That's great.
I'm not a huge, I'm nota huge academia nut.
I don't think I probably could have triedharder in school, but, you know, I, all
I really learned was that I just wantedto do what I wanted to do, I suppose.
Shaylene (03:03):
Now see, now you are qualified to be a bit, so I think any business
owner listening right now is probablylaughing because I know that I've
worked for met in the industry that isa small business or a founder and owner.
They all say, well, because itjust takes that it just takes
that gumption, you know, to reallyhammer it out and get it done.
Joshua (03:27):
Yeah, that sure has.
I mean, we came with,we came at a good time.
Like I think, well, we started this,I started with the seven years ago.
And, and I mean, five years ago,the industry was booming, so it
created a lot of opportunities.
And so we, we securedpretty key contracts.
So, you know, got outthere and secured some.
Big contracts, whichreally is how we launched.
(03:49):
And we're able to hire the team thatwe have now to do what we can do.
So you'd think for all like, yeah, weare I mean, pretty much doubled in the
last three years, every single year ina row, so teams got up 11 people on it.
And it's funny, cause you'd think froma small town and some of our workers
are remote, but in a small town, likeyou'd think your pool of people would be.
(04:12):
It is a lot less, but I mean, youget people a good a good vision.
I think they, they can do a lot of good.
So we found a lot of goodpeople here in this town,
Shaylene (04:23):
probably one of the biggest employers in the area.
Now
Joshua (04:26):
we, in this town, we are pretty close.
I think we might be, we'reclose to the number one.
Shaylene (04:32):
I love that though.
That's a great American story.
I mean, that's what America's made up ofour businesses like yours and mine and the
people that I get to meet and talk with.
It's the gumption ofgood American farmers.
You're right there in the middle of them.
Joshua (04:46):
Yep.
That's right.
Shaylene (04:48):
Let's talk about your products.
So people know what, you know, if yougo to breekArms.com, if you're listening
to this or you're, you know, watchingthe video, we'll put the link below, but
tell us about what people are going tofind when they go to your website and
what tools that they can buy from you.
Joshua (05:05):
Sure.
So we are, Known mostly for our flagshipitem called the Warhammer charging handle.
That's really was our firstproduct we launched as Breek Arms.
And then we recently launched a, anothercharging handle called the Sledgehammer,
which is more, it's more of a gas busting,like suppressed for suppressed shooters.
(05:26):
I mean, it can be used for standardARs as well that are unsuppressed,
but those are kind of the two productsthat, that run most of our business.
And we, I think it's beenabout five years now and we're
moving them quite, quite a few.
So we just started workingon a product called the Brie
clock we launched last year.
(05:47):
We're going to be relaunchingit again at SHOT Show.
So what it is, it's a quickattach, suppressor mount.
Yeah, I saw that.
So it's one of the light, it is thelightest one on the market and one of
the quicker attaching ones and detaching.
Shaylene (06:03):
Yeah.
Joshua (06:03):
And we've kind of solved a couple of the issues that the market has with
they call it carbon lock is a big one.
So if you shoot so manyrounds, the thing just, Kind of
solidifies to your muzzle device.
Yeah.
So we've kind of defeated that problem.
And then just the, the weight andthe simplicity of machine And that's
really our biggest thing is tryingto keep things as simple as possible
(06:24):
and affordable and machinable.
So.
Shaylene (06:26):
Well, if you're making suppressors right now,
you're, you know, you might aswell be printing money, right?
Yeah.
You know, wet make needthis, we don't make
Joshua (06:38):
compressors.
Yeah.
Shaylene (06:38):
Right.
But you, or.
But the people like me who have purchasedsuppressors, we need that, that product
that you have, and that's pretty special.
So there should be a lot of those needed.
Joshua (06:51):
Yep.
Yeah.
We expect people who gotall the direct thread stuff.
In their in their mailbox.
I guess you don't suppressors in themailbox, but from your epithel That
they're going to need a quick attach.
Shaylene (07:04):
That's right.
Joshua (07:04):
So we'll be there for those people.
Shaylene (07:07):
That's right This is a very important thing and I know
there's not just me that haspicked up extra suppressors So
hopefully there's even more soon.
So who knows what's going to happenwith our legalities, but boy, I I
that hearing protection There's noreason we couldn't all be using that
Joshua (07:24):
Yeah, it does help.
I think it just givesshooters a better experience,
especially first time shooters.
I mean, you don't have like even, Imean, my wife, for example, like she's
way more comfortable picking up theexact same rifle and shooting it with
a suppressor than she is unsuppressed.
I think it's just going to, you know,It's going to blow up the industry as a
(07:44):
whole when people see that or when peopleexperience or have a lot better experience
when they're shooting for the first time.
And it really is addicting.
So, yeah.
Shaylene (07:53):
Yeah.
And that is a great an important part thatyou're selling that I wasn't even aware
of until I did a little more research.
And what else can peoplepurchase on Breek Arms?
Joshua (08:04):
So those are kind of our two main items.
We do have a line of hand guards, sowe do a wedge style lock up hangar,
which is, it's one of the lighterweight ones out there on the market.
It's an affordable option for guyswho, and we do, we do a lot of
custom OEM work for, for companies.
So that's kind of our main business.
(08:26):
It's not necessarily end consumer.
Shaylene (08:29):
Okay.
Joshua (08:30):
Yeah, we do custom mobile devices, custom hand guards,
and we have started getting intocustom charging handles as well.
So
Shaylene (08:38):
that's really good to know.
And a lot of our audiences isour industry and executives that
are running other companies.
So it's really good toknow you guys do that.
I really didn't, don'tthink I realized that.
That's great.
Joshua (08:53):
We, we have a branch called Brick Manufacturing.
We don't, it's not really marketed.
It's just kind of a separate branchfrom Breek Arms, but we do have a lot
of contract engineering with companies.
So like our big thing is we, we,and I think what really sets us
apart is kind of the, with therelationship building that we have
and the trust we build with people.
(09:13):
So, you know, we've got, we kindof do the, like, what's the old, I
mean, you said you what's the oldadage where you say over, sorry.
Over promise.
Over deliver.
Yes, I know that's, I know that's wrong.
And I intentionally say that wrong.
Under promise.
Under promise.
Shaylene (09:27):
Under promise and over deliver.
Joshua (09:29):
Not at break.
We over promise.
And we over deliver.
Shaylene (09:33):
And you over deliver.
Okay.
I like that.
Well, that's, you know, that'sthe good Midwestern values.
You know, you just meet good people.
And that's great to know aboutthe OEM manufacturing, the
custom manufacturing 'cause.
It's, it's tough to find theright partners and it sounds
like you're a good company.
People can reach out to you andthey're going to get, you know,
(09:54):
one or one of two or three of you.
I mean, it's not like there's700 they have to sift through,
Joshua (10:00):
right?
Shaylene (10:01):
They're going to get right to you.
Joshua (10:03):
That's correct.
Yeah.
We have a few engineers on the teamand so we just, we want to give or help
them develop and refine their idea.
And give give some freshsolutions or advice or expertise
to help support their project.
So, we really are just in it tohelp, well, obviously make money,
but help as well as their own.
(10:25):
So,
Shaylene (10:25):
do you you said you're going to shot show now, do
you guys have a booth there?
Are you at the supplier showcase or wheredo you guys just have a have an area?
Joshua (10:34):
So the, this year we decided to go to the Range Day.
Ooh.
The new Range Day is now at,apparently is at Prairie Fire.
Shaylene (10:46):
Oh,
Joshua (10:46):
okay.
Great.
So Monday, we'll have a booth there.
Shaylene (10:48):
Oh.
Range Day.
So great.
Oh, that's such a great event.
But bring your coat in a hat.
It's always cold.
Joshua (10:56):
Yeah, it's the desert, but yeah,
Shaylene (10:57):
yeah.
Joshua (10:59):
So, yeah, we'll be working with 5150 rifles.
And they are, they've got a40, I think, 40 foot base.
So we'll be in their bay.
We'll also have a boothunderneath the tent.
To kind of showcase our product.
But if you want to shoot it, obviously youcan go to the shooting lane and shooter.
So we're excited to do that.
Shaylene (11:20):
That's great.
Media can get you there and they can getall kinds of original content and they
can check out the product firsthand.
Joshua (11:31):
Yeah.
We're excited to do it.
I think previous years we've went to theshow, but and have had a ton of success.
Last year we didn't attend as a anexhibitor, but we just tended to kind
of touch base with a lot of customers.
But this year we're going to trysomething a little different.
I know 5150, they've beenpretty pivotal in that step.
So
Shaylene (11:51):
great.
And then after on Monday, after you guysare done with the range day, you'll be
around shot show that if someone wantedto meet with you, they could reach out
ahead of time and make an appointment.
You guys will be around.
Joshua (12:05):
Correct.
Yep.
You can reach I mean, if you,obviously there's a contact page on
our website and you can email us atsales at Breek Arms and Eben will
triage you to the correct person.
So, yeah, absolutely.
We're open to
Shaylene (12:19):
this will be
Joshua (12:20):
yes.
Shaylene (12:21):
Good.
This will be going livein the end of November.
So, you know, SHOT Showis like just a blink away.
It takes no time at allfor it to be SHOT Show.
Once we hit November, it's like a blur.
Joshua (12:34):
Yep.
Yeah.
If we don't have our productready now, it won't be ready.
So
Shaylene (12:38):
that's right.
Now let's talk about your companyand the culture a little bit.
It sounds like a smallgroup, a nice group.
Obviously you guys are putting customersfirst and looking for solutions.
And when someone is interested inyour company and maybe you know,
might want to come to work there.
I know you've gotten some helprecently with marketing and
that'll probably continue to grow.
(13:00):
Are there any, any positions youthink you're going to be looking
for in the near future or howdoes that work at your place?
Joshua (13:07):
Yep.
So we have, again, we have like ourteam is about 11 people which is the
biggest we've ever been and with theacademy, you know, people, I guess
with the regime change, people areprobably a little less scared now.
So yeah, I mean, we're always open toseeing if, if somebody is interested
in working with us and seeing if theirtalent can kind of fit a niche that we
(13:32):
aren't fulfilling, but yeah, I mean, that
Shaylene (13:34):
the culture is growing.
Joshua (13:35):
Right.
Yep.
Yep.
So we're, we're hoping to get a little bitmore efficient and, and really utilize our
team to the fullest extent that we can.
But, you know, that's just our, I thinkto answer your first question, the culture
here, I suppose we, so a big thing forthis, or at least for me is is people.
(13:57):
So I think it's like Walt Disneyor somebody, Walt Disney, I don't
think we should give him creditfor it, but he said, he said,
people first, perfection second.
So, for us, it's important to reallyput time in, not only our employees,
but customers, put them first,
Shaylene (14:16):
you put 'em ahead of yourself, and that's what it takes.
And when you're, you know, you're workingwith a small team, it takes everybody.
I mean, that's great.
That's really great.
I know whenever I've reached out toyou guys, our interactions, it's been
immediate, you know, just really greatcommunication all the way around.
So honestly, it does start with that.
Joshua (14:37):
Starts with people and then we get, we get stuff done.
So we've got a really dynamic team.
I think it's, it's really helpedus capture a lot of business
Shaylene (14:47):
now, do you guys, on your product, I know you can, you have
a website and you can consumers canpurchase things from you directly, right?
Joshua (14:56):
They can, yep.
Shaylene (14:56):
Okay.
And then do you guys also sell todistributors and wholesalers and sell Yes.
Joshua (15:03):
Dealers.
We do have a program for dealers.
We have, we have a program fordealers, wholesalers, online retailers.
We do encourage people to go to their,we encourage the dealers to go to the
distributors and we encourage the endconsumer to go to the online retailers.
We really want to support ourpartners in, in that endeavor.
(15:23):
So,
Shaylene (15:24):
so your dealers, if you were if you're an FFL and you're interested
in their products, then they can justfill out the form on your website
and someone will reach out to them.
Joshua (15:36):
Correct.
Yep.
Shaylene (15:37):
And the same with distribution if you're in purchasing or anything else
of course all those people will be atShacho, but you guys were also at nesgw.
I don't remember.
Joshua (15:49):
Yes.
We were
Shaylene (15:50):
the big Wholesalers, so you were Great.
Joshua (15:55):
Yeah, is that where we met?
I can't remember.
Was it the nsw last year?
Shaylene (16:00):
I don't know where we met.
I can't remember where we met if wemet, but I know we talked before NASGW.
Joshua (16:06):
Okay.
And
Shaylene (16:07):
we were going to meet at NASGW and I ended up not being
able to go at the last minute.
So I think that's on me.
That's why you thought that.
Yeah.
But I mean, there's the thing is,you know, the wholesalers and the
distributors, that's a great showfor that because they can, you can
actually have a conversation and meetwith them there and talk with them.
Joshua (16:29):
Yeah, it is my favorite show, for sure.
It, it's, I guess I'm not, I'm lessI don't drink as much Red Bull as I
used to, so I think calm, collective,
Shaylene (16:40):
not
Joshua (16:41):
funny anymore, so.
Shaylene (16:42):
That's because now NASGW is a break for you from your four children.
Joshua (16:49):
Don't tell my wife.
It's work, okay?
She thinks it's work, so.
Shaylene (16:54):
It is work.
It is work, but when you havefour young children, anything
is a break once in a while.
Joshua (17:00):
That's true.
That is 100 percent fact, yes.
Shaylene (17:03):
Well, what's on the horizon for Breek Arms?
Where do you, where do you asthe owner want to see it go?
And where do you, whatare you guys hoping to do?
What are some of the goalsthat you can share with us?
Joshua (17:14):
So I think on a product level, we're going to continue to push to
kind of suppressor ready accessories.
We aren't making suppressorsand we won't make suppressors.
I think there's a lot of roomand this is where we fit best is.
figuring out how to make the platformswork with suppressors that were
(17:36):
intentionally designed to do that.
So, you know, we've got afew products in the works.
You know, we have a lot of time and moneyspent in R and D to, to get those things
kind of off the ground and then not evenmentioning marketing dollars on it all.
But so we're going to try andwe're really going to focus on
the Breek Lok this next year.
(17:58):
And a sledgehammer.
And I think those will be twopretty successful products for us.
Yeah.
And yeah, kind of launches as timeand time allows and capital allows it.
So we'll continue to support our, ourcustomers that we have contracts with.
On their design ideas and we're excited.
We love doing it.
We're excited to do it So that'sI think from a product level.
(18:20):
That's where we'll we'll be forthe I think for the Support for I
would like really like and we doBreek Arms is is a big driver for
the community and, and our church.
So we want to continue to help people.
That's my biggest goal for the company.
I know 5150 there.
(18:41):
I just gotta give them a little plug.
Okay.
Cause
Shaylene (18:44):
yeah, any plug.
They're very
Joshua (18:45):
inspirational.
Shaylene (18:46):
That's great.
Joshua (18:47):
I'm going to get you on, I'm gonna get Keith on here too.
But he, that's how he started out.
He actually started out by, he would, hewould make himself, he would build rifles
for victims or just to thank veterans.
And over the last 10 years, he'sI think it's, he says 250 grand is
(19:08):
what he's raised for 12 charities.
And just certain people who've,who've had, you know, like there
was a shooting in Texas and fiveof the police officers died.
So he got tens of thousands of dollars,you know, given to those families.
And so he's been pretty inspirational.
(19:28):
In the process.
So, yeah, I think there'sa ton of good we can do.
I think that's kind of what, at leastmy idea of what business should be is,
is really to help people and help, andeven just internally help our employees
well, you're
Shaylene (19:41):
setting it, you're setting the bar for them for one thing.
I mean, you're setting an example andhelping people realize they can keep
growing and keep, keep furtheringtheir careers and their personal lives.
That's really exciting, Joshua,because not everyone thinks of that.
And it sounds like I definitely needto meet this Keith guy because I
(20:02):
don't know him and I don't know 5150,but I definitely need to know them.
And it sounds like, sodoes everybody else.
What a great human.
Joshua (20:10):
Well, and they, and the thing is like they're crushing,
they're crushing it too.
I mean, they've, they've developedsuch great IP, their rifles are great.
They have, and, and thatbusiness is exploding.
And I think it's just, it's just atestament to, I mean, when you do
good for people, like, You get good.
And so, so yeah, it's cool.
Shaylene (20:33):
That's not everyone, but most people, this is, this is why we love
this industry because they, they wraptheir Arms around you as a business,
even your competitors, and then, andthen they go a step further and they
say, what can I do for your family?
Can I write a letter of recommendationfor your child for college?
You know, we're having a sponsorship.
(20:54):
I mean, a scholarship.
Would you like your kids to participate?
I mean, that's this industry.
It really, it really is like that.
People just are surprised when they hearme say that, but you're, you know it.
Yeah, it's true.
They're amazing.
Joshua (21:08):
It's true.
Yeah.
In the last five years, the trade,like, you know, we're going to the
same trade shows, we see the samepeople and it's, it's hilarious,
the relationships that you build.
And I say hilarious because they're fun.
They're fun people.
They're just like you and me.
And, and they all have familiesand they, they just want, they're
just, they're just got pure hearts.
(21:29):
It's kind of cool.
Shaylene (21:31):
And they, they want to do good business and they want to
do the right thing and they wantto have a good time doing it.
And they want to supportreally family values.
Really is it?
It's a great place to be.
Well, I'm just honored, just honoredthat you would do this with me.
And I cannot thank you enoughfor being on the podcast.
(21:52):
I think people need to knowabout these businesses.
They need to know about Breek Arms.
So breekarms.Com And you should checkout their products and if you're at shot
show You guys you need to call joshuaand you need to hook up and say hey How
can we partner for custom manufacturingbecause this company is going to go
places and you want to be on this train?
(22:14):
So thank you Joshua so muchfor being on the podcast.
Joshua (22:19):
Yeah, you're welcome Thanks for having me, Shaylene.
Shaylene (22:22):
And that'll be it for this podcast with HeadHunters NW.
Thank you for listening.
Can't wait to talk to you again next time.
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